pastry, creamy lemon-infused cream cheese filling, and a sweet blueberry topping. Finished with a tangy lemon glaze, they make for an ideal breakfast or a delightful sweet treat. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a simple indulgence, these danishes are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the richness of cream cheese, the brightness of lemon, and the sweetness of blueberries in a light, flaky puff pastry. The tangy glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating each bite. These danishes are easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, and they bake up golden and crispy in no time. Whether for a weekend breakfast, a brunch gathering, or a sweet snack, they are a versatile and delicious option that everyone will love. Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Blueberry Topping:

½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Glaze:

½ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Blueberry Topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 4-6 squares.
Assemble the Danishes: Place each square on the prepared baking sheet. Gently fold in the edges slightly to create a border. Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square. Top each with a spoonful of the blueberry mixture.
Bake the Danishes: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a glaze.
Finish the Danishes: Drizzle the glaze over the warm danishes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes

Variations

Fruit Combinations: Feel free to substitute the blueberries with other fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
Add Nuts: For added texture, sprinkle some chopped pecans or almonds on top of the danishes before baking.
Cream Cheese Flavor: If you love a stronger lemon flavor, add a bit more lemon zest or even a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese filling.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These danishes are best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the danishes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe and is a great time-saver.

2. Can I make these danishes ahead of time?

While the puff pastry is best baked fresh, you can prepare the cream cheese filling and blueberry topping ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge and assemble and bake the danishes when you’re ready.

3. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to prevent excess liquid in the topping.

4. Can I use a different fruit for the topping?

Absolutely! You can swap the blueberries for other fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of berries for a different twist.

5. How do I keep the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Ensure that you use a thick layer of cream cheese filling and blueberry topping, and avoid overfilling the pastries. Also, avoid any extra liquid in the topping mixture to keep the pastry crisp.

6. Can I freeze these danishes?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked danishes. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

7. Can I make these danishes without the glaze?

Yes, the danishes are still delicious without the glaze. If you prefer a less sweet finish, you can skip it or use a lighter drizzle.

8. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese, though it will change the texture and flavor. It will be a bit tangier, and the filling may not be as creamy as the original version.

9. Can I add more lemon flavor to the danishes?

If you want a stronger lemon flavor, you can add more lemon zest to both the cream cheese filling and the glaze.

10. How can I make these danishes dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and the butter in the puff pastry with a non-dairy butter substitute.

Conclusion

These Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Danishes are a delightful treat, combining the flaky goodness of puff pastry with a creamy, tangy filling and sweet blueberry topping. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or as a special dessert, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a sweet and zesty pastry. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they’ll add a touch of sweetness and sunshine to any occasion!

Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish