Growing up in a home where scratch baking was the norm, I was surprised to discover that my grandmother’s “famous” danishes started with store-bought puff pastry. When I once asked why she didn’t make the pastry from scratch, she winked and said, “Some shortcuts are worth taking.” This recipe pays homage to her practical wisdom while incorporating my professional training. These danishes have become my signature contribution to family brunches, where they’re always the first item to disappear from the table.
Make-Ahead Blueberry Cream Cheese Danishes
Flaky puff pastry cradles tangy cream cheese and juicy blueberries for elegant make-ahead breakfast pastries.
Prepare the Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each into 4 equal squares, for a total of 8 squares.
Create Pastry Borders
Using a sharp knife, score a border about 1/2-inch from the edge of each pastry square, being careful not to cut all the way through. Prick the inner square several times with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.
Make Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and egg yolk until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Danishes
Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture inside the scored border of each pastry square. Top each with approximately 2-3 tablespoons of blueberries, gently pressing them into the cream cheese layer.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the borders of the pastry with egg wash, being careful not to let it drip down the sides (which can prevent proper rising).
Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the danishes for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Glaze the Berries
While the danishes are still warm, brush the blueberries with warmed jam to create a shiny glaze and enhance the flavor.
Make the Icing
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Add more milk if needed to achieve a drizzling consistency.
Finish and Serve
Once the danishes have cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle with the glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature. Danishes are best enjoyed the day they're baked but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
How To Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish With Claire Saffitz
Learn how to make delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese Danishes with perfect puff pastry, tangy cream cheese, and fresh blueberries.
These danishes solve the age-old hosting dilemma of wanting to serve something fresh-baked without being tied to the kitchen during a gathering. The pastries can be fully assembled the night before and refrigerated, creating an effortless morning bake that fills your home with an inviting aroma. The cream cheese layer acts as a barrier between the pastry and fruit, preventing sogginess and ensuring a crisp base even hours after baking. For busy weekday mornings, freeze unbaked danishes and pop them directly into the oven when needed.
Each bite delivers multiple textural experiences – the shattering crisp of buttery puff pastry gives way to a velvety cream cheese layer, brightened with lemon zest and vanilla, while juicy blueberries burst with sweet-tart flavor. The optional glaze adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the cheese and fruit. These danishes aren’t just delicious; they’re visually stunning with their golden edges, vibrant berries, and glaze drizzle – perfect for impressing guests without extraordinary effort.
While blueberries are my favorite version of these danishes, the versatility of this recipe makes it a year-round staple in my kitchen. Try substituting seasonal fruits like strawberries, peaches, or spiced apples to create variations throughout the year. For a special occasion touch, dust with powdered sugar just before serving or add a sprinkle of sliced almonds before baking. With their professional appearance but forgiving nature, these danishes will quickly become your go-to recipe for effortless elegance at the breakfast table.
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