If you have a soft spot for fresh, buttery pastries with a luscious filling, then you are absolutely going to adore this Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe. This delightful treat is all about the perfect harmony between flaky puff pastry, tangy cream cheese, and vibrant blackberries sweetened to perfection. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it a standout choice whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a cherished recipe you reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this BlackBerry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe is a breeze thanks to its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a pivotal role—flaky puff pastry gives structure, cream cheese adds creamy richness, and blackberries provide that juicy, fresh pop of flavor.
- Blackberries (12 ounces fresh or frozen): The star fruit, delivering a bright and slightly tart bite that balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup plus ½ cup): Sweetens both the fruit filling and the cream cheese mixture for balanced flavor.
- Large eggs (3, including yolks): Eggs lend richness, help bind the filling, and are essential for that glossy egg wash finish.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a fresh tang that elevates the blackberry’s natural brightness.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Melts into the fruit filling, enhancing the flavor and giving it a silky texture.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates the creamy base for the filling with its mild tang and smooth body.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Brings warmth and depth to the cream cheese filling.
- Puff pastry sheets (2, thawed): Provides the buttery, flaky crust that is essential for any Danish.
- Egg wash (1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water): Gives that gorgeous golden sheen and seals the edges.
- Turbinado sugar (â…“ cup): Sprinkled on top for a sparkling crunch that enhances texture and sweetness.
- Fresh blackberries (6 ounces): Used as gorgeous garnishes to finish the Danish with extra elegance.
How to Make Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blackberry Filling
Combine your blackberries, ½ cup granulated sugar, lemon juice, butter, one beaten egg, and one egg yolk over medium heat. Cook gently until the berries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly. This creates a luscious, jam-like filling that will perfectly complement the creamy cheese layer.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining ½ cup sugar, one egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture is delightfully rich and tangy, balancing the natural sweetness of the fruit and the buttery pastry.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into equal rectangles. These will serve as the perfect canvas for your fillings and provide the iconic flaky texture you’re craving in a Danish.
Step 4: Assemble the Danish
Spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry rectangle, then top with a spoonful of the blackberry filling. Fold up the corners or edges slightly to enclose the filling partially, giving it that classic Danish look.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Sugar
Brush the exposed pastry edges with the beaten egg wash. This step ensures a stunning golden finish when baked. Sprinkle the turbinado sugar across the top for that irresistible sparkle and a subtle sugary crunch.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled Danish pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry is puffed up, beautifully golden, and the filling bubbles up ever so slightly.
How to Serve Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh blackberries are the perfect final touch. Their vibrant color adds visual appeal, while their juicy burst enhances every bite. Feel free to dust a little powdered sugar or drizzle some honey for extra sweetness and charm.
Side Dishes
This Danish pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a smooth latte for a relaxing morning. For a brunch spread, complement it with scrambled eggs or a light yogurt parfait to balance indulgence with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Danish on a rustic wooden board with bowls of extra cream cheese and blackberry compote for guests to personalize their bites. Alternatively, stacking smaller Danish pieces on a dessert tower offers a festive and inviting presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover Danish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep fresh for up to 3 days without losing their delightful texture or flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe at a later time, wrap individual pastries tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Danish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive the crust’s crispness and warm the filling thoroughly. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries work just fine. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess juice before cooking to avoid a watery filling.
Is puff pastry the only option for the crust?
Puff pastry is ideal for its light, flaky layers, but you could experiment with croissant dough for an even richer texture if you’re feeling adventurous.
Can I substitute cream cheese with another type of cheese?
Cream cheese is key for achieving that creamy, slightly tangy filling. Ricotta or mascarpone could work but will change the texture and flavor profile slightly.
How long does this Danish stay fresh after baking?
It tastes best the day it’s made, but storing it properly in the fridge ensures it stays delicious for up to 3 days.
Can I prepare the Danish entirely ahead of time but bake it fresh?
Yes! Assemble the Danish, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just bake as directed to enjoy a fresh-baked experience.
Final Thoughts
This Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe is truly a little piece of pastry heaven. Its lovely balance of flaky, creamy, and fruity elements wins hearts every time I share it. I encourage you to try making this at home—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Gather your ingredients, get your oven ready, and enjoy the wonderful comfort of homemade Danish fresh from your kitchen!
Print
Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish that combines flaky puff pastry with a luscious cream cheese filling and fresh blackberries, perfect for a brunch treat or elegant dessert.
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
Pastry & Toppings
- 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 saucepan over medium heat, combine 12 ounces of blackberries, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 large egg yolks, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Cook while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons butter. Let cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese with ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add 1 large egg yolk and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into even squares or rectangles, depending on desired Danish size.
- Assemble the Danish: Place a spoonful of cream cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry square, then add a spoonful of the cooled blackberry filling on top of the cream cheese. Fold the corners or edges partially over the filling to create a Danish shape.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush each assembled Danish generously with the beaten egg wash (egg beaten with water). Sprinkle the tops with â…“ cup turbinado sugar evenly to add crunch and sweetness.
- Bake: Place the Danish pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the Danish to cool slightly, then garnish with 6 ounces of fresh blackberries. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen blackberries for the filling, but ensure frozen berries are fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Make sure to fully thaw puff pastry before working with it to prevent cracking.
- The egg wash helps achieve a shiny, golden finish on the Danish.
- Turbinado sugar adds a pleasant crunch and caramelized flavor to the pastry’s surface.
- These Danishes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat briefly before serving.
