Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry that combines a soft, buttery dough with a rich cream cheese filling and juicy blueberries. Topped with a sweet glaze, these danishes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a special dessert. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 3 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water (110°F). Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole milk, melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, salt, and egg. Mix well.
3. Add Yeast Mixture:
   • Add the frothy yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
4. Mix in Flour:
   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
5. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Danish

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Cut and Shape the Dough:
   • Cut the dough into squares (about 4×4 inches). Fold the corners of each square towards the center, pressing down gently to secure and create a small well in the middle.
4. Fill the Danish:
   • Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese filling into the center of each dough square. Top with a few blueberries.

Step 4: Bake the Danish

1. Bake:
   • Place the filled dough squares onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

1. Make the Glaze:
   • In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, melted unsalted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Drizzle with Glaze:
   • Once the danishes are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of each pastry.
2. Serve:
   • Serve the Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this delightful pastry treat!

Cook Notes and Variations

Cook Notes:

• Yeast: Ensure the water is warm (110°F) but not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.
• Dough: The dough should be soft but not too sticky. Add more flour if needed.

Variations:

• Mixed Berry Danish:
  • Use a combination of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a mixed berry version.
• Lemon Blueberry Danish:
  • Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy twist.
• Almond Danish:
  • Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the glaze for added crunch and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

2. How do I store leftover Danish?

Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze these danishes?

Yes, you can freeze the baked danishes. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

4. What can I serve with Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish?

These danishes are delicious on their own but can also be served with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.

5. Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry dough or crescent roll dough as a shortcut. Follow the package instructions for baking.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful and easy-to-make pastry that’s perfect for any occasion. With its soft, buttery dough, creamy filling, and juicy blueberries, this danish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful treat. Happy baking!