If you are searching for the perfect balance of tart and sweet with a flaky, buttery crust, then the Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe is exactly what you need to try. This heavenly pastry combines luxuriously creamy, tangy cream cheese filling with fresh blackberries inside a golden puff pastry that bakes to flaky perfection. Whether you’re serving it for a special breakfast, a brunch treat, or an elegant dessert, this Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe will become an instant favorite for its irresistible texture and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, the ingredients for this Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Every component plays a vital role—whether it’s the tartness of the blackberries, the richness of the cream cheese, or the buttery puff pastry that holds it all together.
- Blackberries (12 ounces): Fresh or frozen blackberries provide that juicy, slightly tart burst that makes the danish unforgettable.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup + ½ cup): This sweetens both the berry mixture and the cream cheese filling to perfect harmony.
- Large eggs (3 total): Eggs bind and enrich the filling and help to create a golden, shiny crust with the egg wash.
- Large egg yolks (2 + 1): Egg yolks add smoothness and richness, making the cream cheese filling luxuriously silky.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): A splash of fresh lemon brightens the berry filling with zesty freshness.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Melted butter folded into the berries adds depth of flavor and tenderness.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces): The star of the filling, softened cream cheese gives that creamy, tangy base that’s simply irresistible.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): This warms the cream cheese with subtle, fragrant undertones.
- Puff pastry sheets (2, thawed): The flaky, buttery crust encasing the filling is what makes this dessert truly special.
- Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water): Brushed on top for a gorgeous, golden finish.
- Turbinado sugar (â…“ cup): Sprinkled on the pastry for a delightful crunchy texture and caramelized sweetness.
- Fresh blackberries (6 ounces for garnish): Beautifully decorate the finished danish with sweet bursts of fresh fruit.
How to Make Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blackberry Filling
Start by combining 12 ounces of blackberries with ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 large egg yolks, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly. Finish by stirring in 2 tablespoons of butter to add richness and a silky texture.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
While the blackberry filling cools, whip together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg yolk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy. This creamy filling is what makes the danish so luscious and irresistible.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold two sheets of thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 9 equal squares, for a total of 18 pieces. These delicate layers will bake into golden pockets of buttery, flaky goodness.
Step 4: Assemble Individual Danishes
On each square, gently spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center, then top with a spoonful of the blackberry filling. To create the perfect danish shape, fold the corners in slightly to form an open envelope, leaving the fruit exposed. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash to encourage a beautiful golden finish.
Step 5: Add Sugar and Bake
Sprinkle each danish generously with turbinado sugar for a sweet, crunchy topping. Arrange the danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once cooled slightly, decorate the danishes with fresh blackberries arranged on top. This adds a fresh, juicy contrast and makes each piece look as stunning as it tastes.
How to Serve Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh blackberries are the natural choice for garnishing, but you can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness and sparkle. A small sprig of mint can bring a lovely pop of green and an inviting aroma.
Side Dishes
Serve these danishes alongside a cup of rich coffee or tea for a perfect morning treat. For a heartier brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance sweetness with savory and tangy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the danishes on a rustic wooden board for a casual brunch feel, or place them on delicate china plates for an elegant touch. You can even serve mini versions as part of a dessert platter alongside other pastries and fresh fruit for a decadent spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will preserve moisture and keep the pastry crisp as long as possible.
Freezing
If you want to save danishes for longer, freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Wrap each pastry individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the freshest taste and texture, reheat danishes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This revives the flaky layers while warming the filling to creamy perfection without making the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries for this danish?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries work perfectly and are especially convenient when fresh ones are out of season. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using to avoid soggy pastry.
What is the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
To soften cream cheese rapidly, cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts of 10 seconds, stirring gently between each until smooth.
Can I make these danishes gluten-free?
While traditional puff pastry contains gluten, you can find gluten-free puff pastry varieties at specialty stores or online. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for best results with this Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe.
How can I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Ensure your fruit filling is not too watery by cooking it down properly and draining any excess liquid. Also, try to keep the filling in the center of each pastry square and bake immediately after assembling. The egg wash helps create a moisture barrier around the edges too.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with another cheese?
Cream cheese gives this danish its signature creamy and tangy flavor, but you could try mascarpone for a richer taste or ricotta for a lighter texture. Keep in mind these will slightly change the overall flavor and consistency.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the complete guide to this delightful Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe, I hope you feel inspired to whip up a batch soon. This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly combining fresh fruit, creamy filling, and flaky pastry. Whether for a special occasion or just because you deserve a sweet treat, these danishes are bound to bring smiles and warm moments to your table. Happy baking!
Print
Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings (one Danish per serving)
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry combining flaky puff pastry with a rich, creamy filling and sweet-tart blackberries. Perfect for brunch or a special breakfast treat, each bite blends the buttery pastry with luscious cream cheese and vibrant berries, topped with a crunchy turbinado sugar sprinkle for extra texture.
Ingredients
Blackberry Filling
- 12 ounces blackberries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
- 1 large egg
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter (28 grams)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Danish Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- â…“ cup turbinado sugar (73 grams)
- 6 ounces fresh blackberries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackberry Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 12 ounces of blackberries, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 egg yolks, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Cook, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and the berries break down, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons butter until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese with ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add 1 egg yolk and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, lay out the thawed puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 9 equal squares for a total of 18 squares.
- Assemble the Danishes: Place a spoonful of cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square. Top with a spoonful of the cooled blackberry filling. Fold the corners of each square slightly towards the center to create a simple frame, making sure to leave some filling visible in the center.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush the edges of each pastry with the beaten egg wash to promote browning. Sprinkle the dusted turbinado sugar evenly over the exposed filling and pastry edges for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Bake the Danishes: Arrange the assembled pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish each with a few fresh blackberries. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen blackberries for the filling; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Puff pastry sheets must be thawed completely before cutting and assembling for best results.
- Be careful not to overfill the pastries to prevent leaking during baking.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and butter with a vegan option.
