Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Uses store-bought puff pastry for a quick and hassle-free preparation.
- Deliciously Flaky – The golden, buttery layers of puff pastry create the perfect crisp texture.
- Creamy and Fruity – The rich cream cheese filling balances beautifully with the fresh, juicy strawberries.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling – In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Roll Out the Puff Pastry – Lightly flour a surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into rectangles or squares.
- Assemble the Danish – Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry piece, then top with sliced strawberries.
- Fold and Seal – Fold the edges slightly inward or twist the corners for a decorative touch.
- Apply Egg Wash – Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of the pastry to give it a golden finish.
- Bake – Place the pastries on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Dust – Allow the Danish to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4-6 Danish pastries
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Berry Mix – Try using a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Add melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent treat.
- Lemon Zest – Mix lemon zest into the cream cheese filling for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top before baking for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Keep leftover Danish pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating – Warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 15 seconds to restore flakiness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making the pastry soggy.
Can I make this Danish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pastries, refrigerate them, and bake fresh when needed.
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will make the Danish even more delicious and flaky.
What other fruits can I use?
Try peaches, blueberries, raspberries, or apples for different flavors.
Can I make these Danish pastries without cream cheese?
You can substitute mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture.
How do I prevent my Danish from getting soggy?
Make sure the strawberries are not too wet and don’t overload the filling.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can replace sugar in the filling.
Can I freeze these Danish pastries?
Yes, freeze after baking and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
How do I get a shiny finish on my Danish?
Brushing with an egg wash before baking gives the pastry a golden, glossy look.
Can I make mini Danish pastries?
Yes, cut the pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized treats.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cream Danish is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a bakery-quality pastry at home. With its flaky layers, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries, it’s a treat that works for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Try different variations, store them for later, and enjoy a homemade Danish whenever you like!
Print
Delicious Strawberry Cream Danish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Cream Danish is a flaky, buttery pastry filled with a sweet vanilla-infused cream cheese mixture and fresh strawberries. With a golden puff pastry base and a creamy, fruity topping, this delightful treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Plus, it’s easy to make using store-bought puff pastry!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling – In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3️⃣ Roll Out the Pastry – Lightly flour a surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into rectangles or squares.
4️⃣ Assemble – Spread a spoonful of cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry, then top with sliced strawberries.
5️⃣ Fold and Seal – Fold the edges slightly inward or twist the corners for a decorative look.
6️⃣ Egg Wash – Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of the pastry for a golden finish.
7️⃣ Bake – Place the pastries on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
8️⃣ Cool and Dust – Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Berry Variation – Mix strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.
- Extra Sweetness – Drizzle melted chocolate over the baked pastries for a decadent touch.
- Zesty Twist – Add lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a fresh citrus note.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top before baking for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
