Homemade Cream Cheese Danish Buns with Fresh Berries

Deep within the heart of European bakery tradition lies a treat that has captured hearts worldwide – the Cream Cheese Danish. Our version combines the flaky, buttery goodness of traditional Danish pastry with a luxuriously smooth cream cheese filling, crowned with fresh seasonal berries. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the artisanal touch of homemade pastry and the comforting indulgence of cream cheese, creating a breakfast or brunch centerpiece that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Danish Dough

  • 3¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
  • ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons (15g) sesame seeds for topping

For the Cream Cheese Filling

  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) cornstarch
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream

For the Topping

  • 2 cups (300g) fresh blackberries
  • 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions

Dough Preparation (Time: 1 hour 30 minutes)

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk (110°F/43°C) with yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add softened butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
  4. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Filling Preparation (Time: 15 minutes)

  1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until completely smooth.
  2. Add sugar, egg, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and heavy cream.
  3. Mix until perfectly smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

Assembly and Baking (Time: 1 hour)

  1. Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 75g each).
  2. Shape each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten and create a deep well in the center.
  3. Place shaped buns on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each.
  4. Brush the edges with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  5. Fill each well with approximately 2-3 tablespoons of cream cheese mixture.
  6. Let rise again for 30 minutes in a warm place.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Top with fresh blackberries while still warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 385
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 98mg
  • Sodium: 295mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Protein: 8g

Pro Baking Tips

  • Temperature matters: ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal dough development
  • Don’t overmix the cream cheese filling to avoid incorporating too much air
  • Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements
  • Brush the edges of the dough with egg wash before adding filling to create a seal
  • Allow the danishes to cool for 15 minutes before serving to let the filling set

Variations and Substitutions

  • Replace blackberries with fresh mango chunks, strawberries, or blueberries
  • Use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a different flavor profile
  • Add lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy twist
  • Make a chocolate version by adding 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the filling
  • For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and light cream

Common FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Why did my filling overflow during baking?

The wells in the dough weren’t deep enough or were overfilled. Make sure to create substantial wells and fill only ¾ full.

Can these danish buns be frozen?

Yes, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slightly before serving.

How do I know when they’re properly baked?

The edges should be golden brown, and the filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store baked danish buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight
  • Cream cheese filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance
  • For best results, add fresh fruit toppings just before serving
  • Reheat room temperature danish buns in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes

These cream cheese danish buns combine the best of both worlds: a tender, flaky pastry with a rich, creamy filling. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat, they’re sure to become a family favorite. The combination of textures – crispy exterior, soft interior, creamy filling, and fresh fruit – creates an irresistible pastry that’s both impressive and delicious.