Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love pastries that blend creamy, fruity, and buttery flavors, you’re in for a real treat with this Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe. These delightful buns combine the soft, pillowy texture of classic Danish dough with a luscious vanilla cheesecake center and a vibrant blueberry filling that bursts with freshness. Every bite is a harmonious dance of sweet and tangy, crumbly and smooth, making it the perfect indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try making these, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for when you want something special yet comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of this Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering that authentic, irresistible flavor and texture. From rich cream cheese lending a velvety smoothness to the vibrant blueberries adding a burst of juicy sweetness, every element is essential.

• All-purpose flour (500 g/4 cups): The foundation of the dough, providing structure and a soft crumb.
• Granulated sugar (70 g/⅓ cup + 50 g/¼ cup): Sweetens the dough and crumbly topping, balancing flavors.
• Instant yeast (10 g/2 tsp): For that perfect rise and airy texture.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the sweet and creamy notes.
• Warm milk (250 ml/1 cup): Activates the yeast and adds moisture.
• Large egg (1) and egg yolk (1): Binds ingredients and enriches the dough and cheesecake filling.
• Unsalted butter (75 g softened + 50 g cold cubed): Brings richness to the dough and creates the crumbly topping.
• Cream cheese (225 g/8 oz softened): The star of the cheesecake filling with its smooth, tangy creaminess.
• Powdered sugar (60 g/½ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling to perfection.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, inviting aroma to the cheesecake filling.
• Fresh or frozen blueberries (1 ½ cups): Provides a natural, fruity contrast in the filling.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens and balances the blueberry filling.
• Cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water): Thickens the blueberry compote beautifully.
• All-purpose flour for crumble (75 g/½ cup): Combines with butter and sugar for a crisp, buttery topping.
• Egg beaten with milk (1 egg + 1 tbsp milk): Used for brushing, it gives the buns a glorious golden finish.

How to Make Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. These dry ingredients lay the groundwork for a well-balanced dough.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the warm milk, whole egg, and softened butter to the dry mix and stir until a soft dough begins to form. The warmth of the milk is crucial as it activates the yeast gently without killing it.

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading develops the gluten network, giving the buns that lovely chewy yet tender bite.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. This rising step makes the dough light and airy.

Step 5: Create the Vanilla Cheesecake Filling

Beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy. Pop this mixture in the fridge to chill, keeping it firm and easy to spoon onto the buns later.

Step 6: Make the Blueberry Compote

In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the berries to soften and release their juices, creating a vibrant filling.

Step 7: Thicken the Blueberry Filling

Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking until the mixture thickens nicely. Set aside to cool completely, ensuring the filling doesn’t run when added to the buns.

Step 8: Prepare the Crumble Topping

Rub together cold cubed butter, sugar, and flour with your fingertips until the mixture looks crumbly. Chill this crumble so it holds its shape during baking, adding a lovely crunch on top.

Step 9: Shape the Buns

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 10 to 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. These will form the base of your carnival buns.

Step 10: Form Indents for Filling

Place the dough balls onto a baking tray lined with parchment, gently flattening each one slightly. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press an indent into the center of every bun, creating a perfect little pocket.

Step 11: Add Fillings and Topping

Fill each indent first with a generous spoonful of the vanilla cheesecake filling, followed by a small amount of blueberry compote. Finally, sprinkle crushed crumble generously around the edges, leaving the center visible.

Step 12: Apply Egg Wash and Preheat Oven

Brush the edges of the buns with the beaten egg and milk mixture to help them develop that signature golden, glossy crust. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and get ready to bake.

Step 13: Bake the Buns

Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes until the buns are stunningly golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set but still soft and creamy.

Step 14: Cool and Serve

Allow the buns to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. For that extra touch of sweetness and festivity, dust them lightly with powdered sugar just before enjoying.

How to Serve Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a light dusting of powdered sugar over the warm Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe brings a snowy, festive touch that looks as delightful as it tastes. Fresh mint leaves or a few fresh blueberries on top can also elevate the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

These buns pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, balancing their rich sweetness with a warm, comforting beverage. For brunch, consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or a slightly tangy yogurt to complement the creamy cheesecake filling.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re bringing these Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe to a party, arrange them on a decorative platter surrounded by fresh berries and edible flowers. You could also serve them in individual bowls with a drizzle of vanilla glaze or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the buns soft but still fresh enough to savor later without losing their luscious fillings and crumbly topping.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They freeze well for up to one month. Let them thaw at room temperature before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor of the Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe.

Reheating

Warm the buns in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 5 to 7 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough tough and the crumbly topping soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones for the blueberry filling. Just be sure to thaw and drain them slightly before cooking to avoid excess liquid.

Is it okay to use regular cream cheese or should I use something special?

Regular full-fat cream cheese works best to give the cheesecake filling its creamy texture and rich flavor. Low-fat versions might not set as well and can change the texture.

Can I make the dough in a bread maker?

Yes, you can use a bread maker for mixing and kneading the dough if you have one. Just follow your bread maker’s instructions for dough cycles and proceed with rising and shaping afterward.

What if I don’t have instant yeast? Can I use active dry yeast?

Definitely! If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm milk and a pinch of sugar first, letting it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until bubbly before adding to the flour mixture.

How can I make the crumble topping extra crunchy?

For an extra-crispy crumble, try adding a handful of finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the mixture. Also, chilling the crumble well before baking helps maintain that satisfying crunch.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the joy of biting into a warm, freshly baked Danish Carnival Buns with Vanilla Cheesecake and Blueberry Filling Recipe, especially when it’s made with love and simple, wholesome ingredients. This recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that will bring a little Danish happiness straight to your kitchen. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pastry to share with friends and family!

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