Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish

This Blackberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry featuring a flaky, buttery crust filled with a luscious cream cheese mixture and sweet, juicy blackberries. With a balance of tangy and sweet flavors, this homemade danish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Using store-bought puff pastry simplifies the process, making this danish accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor Combination – The rich cream cheese filling pairs perfectly with the tartness of fresh blackberries.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether served at a brunch, as a sweet snack, or for dessert, this danish is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable – Swap blackberries for your favorite berries or add a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Puff pastry sheets
• Cream cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest
• Fresh blackberries
• Egg (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting or glaze)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling – In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry – Lightly flour your surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into rectangles or squares, depending on your preferred size.
4. Assemble the Danish – Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry piece. Place a few fresh blackberries on top.
5. Shape the Pastries – Fold the edges slightly or create a lattice design with extra pastry strips.
6. Apply Egg Wash – Beat an egg and brush it over the edges of the pastry for a golden-brown finish.
7. Bake – Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffy.
8. Cool and Serve – Let the danishes cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with a simple icing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 danishes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Different Fruits – Substitute blackberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries.
• Icing Drizzle – Mix powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice for a simple glaze.
• Nutty Addition – Sprinkle sliced almonds or chopped pecans on top for added crunch.
• Cinnamon Flavor – Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture for warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• Freezing – Freeze unbaked danishes and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

How do I keep the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Ensure the blackberries are dry before adding them to the pastry, and avoid overfilling with cream cheese.

Can I make these danishes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen blackberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.

What kind of puff pastry should I use?

Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience, or homemade if preferred. Look for all-butter varieties for the best flavor.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and richness.

Do I need to cook the blackberries before using them?

No, fresh blackberries bake perfectly in the danish. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained.

Can I add jam instead of fresh fruit?

Yes, blackberry jam works well as a substitute or addition to fresh fruit.

How do I prevent the pastry from spreading too much?

Chill the assembled danishes for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

How do I make the glaze?

Mix powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled danishes.

Can I make these danishes without sugar?

You can use a sugar substitute in the cream cheese mixture and omit powdered sugar for a lower-sugar version.

Conclusion

Blackberry Cream Cheese Danishes are a delicious, bakery-style treat that is easy to make at home. With their buttery, flaky pastry and creamy, fruity filling, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you customize them with different fruits or enjoy them as is, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Try making a batch today and enjoy a homemade pastry that tastes as good as it looks!