Strawberry Danish with Cream Cheese
Picture Credit to the Original Owner
Imagine biting into a buttery, flaky puff pastry filled with creamy, sweetened cream cheese and topped with juicy strawberries. It’s the kind of pastry that feels indulgent yet comforting—a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Strawberry Danish with cream cheese is one of those classic recipes that look bakery-fancy but are surprisingly easy to make at home.
This recipe is all about thoughtfully combining simple, everyday ingredients to create a truly stunning and delightful result. Whether you’re hosting a leisurely brunch with friends or simply treating yourself to a cozy, slow morning at home, these Strawberry Cream Cheese Danishes are sure to bring a warm smile to anyone’s face. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and discover how to make these irresistibly delicious pastries from scratch.
Strawberry Danish with Cream Cheese
Ingredients
4 cups sliced strawberries
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon sugar
8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature
½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
1 large egg (lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water for egg wash)
2–3 tablespoons sugar (optional for topping)
¼ cup (60 ml) strawberry jam
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) milk
Preparing the Ingredients:
Thaw Puff Pastry: Allow the puff pastry sheets to thaw at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes. This will make them pliable and easy to handle.
Prepare the Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch. Stir gently to coat, and let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This step helps the strawberries release their natural juices while thickening the filling.
Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Taste the filling and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Preparing the Pastries:
Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cut the Puff Pastry:
Unfold each puff pastry sheet into a square. Cut along the folded lines, then cut each rectangle in half to create six smaller rectangles. Repeat with the second sheet to make 12 rectangles in total.
Score the Edges: Using a paring knife, lightly score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle. Be careful not to cut all the way through the dough—this border will puff up and create a frame for the filling.
Assembling the Danishes:
Add the Cream Cheese Filling:
Spread about one tablespoon of cream cheese filling in the center of each rectangle, staying within the scored border.
Top with Strawberries:
Arrange the sliced strawberries decoratively over the cream cheese. You can overlap them slightly for a prettier presentation.
Egg Wash and Sugar:
Lightly brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg wash to create a golden crust. Sprinkle the edges with sugar if you’d like a little extra sweetness and crunch.
Baking
Chill if Necessary:
If the assembled pastries feel warm or sticky, chill them in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. This step helps the puff pastry bake evenly and puff beautifully.
Bake the Pastries:
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
Finishing Touches
Cool the Pastries:
Allow the Danishes to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Toppings:
For added shine, brush warm strawberry jam over the strawberries. To make a simple glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pastries for a finishing touch.
Tips for Success
Handle Puff Pastry Gently:
Puff pastry works best when it’s cold. If it becomes too soft, chill it briefly before cutting and assembling.
Customize the Fruit: Swap the strawberries for other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of fruits.
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the cream cheese filling and the strawberry mixture before assembling. Add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter pastry.
Layer Flavors: Try adding a hint of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy note that complements the strawberries.
Reheat Properly: Rewarm leftover pastries in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness of the puff pastry.
These Strawberry Danish pastries with cream cheese are flaky, buttery, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. The creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling complements the juicy strawberries perfectly. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re an easy way to impress family and friends.
