Strawberry Danish is a pastry that combines the flaky layers of puff pastry, a creamy cream cheese filling, and the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. This treat is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or an elegant dessert. Topped with a warm strawberry jam or a luscious vanilla glaze, it’s a dessert that delights both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this easy recipe promises a delicious pastry every time.
PrintStrawberry Danish
Flaky, buttery, and filled with sweet strawberry goodness—this Strawberry Danish is pure pastry perfection! 🍓🥐 #StrawberryDelight #ButteryGoodness #DanishLove #FlakyPastry #FreshAndFruity #MorningTreat #BakedToPerfection #PastryGoals #SweetIndulgence #DeliciousBites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Strawberries
- 4 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sugar
The juicy strawberries provide a natural sweetness and a burst of flavor, while the cornstarch ensures a thick and glossy filling that stays in place during baking.
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This creamy filling adds a tangy balance to the sweetness of the strawberries, enhancing the overall flavor of the danish.
Danish Pastry
- 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water
- 2–3 tablespoons sugar for topping (optional)
Store-bought puff pastry saves time without compromising the flaky, buttery layers that define a classic Danish pastry.
Toppings
- ¼ cup (60 ml) strawberry jam (optional)
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) milk
Instructions
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Allow the puff pastry sheets to thaw at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Strawberry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure the strawberries are evenly coated. Let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Adjust the sweetness to taste.
4. Prepare the Puff Pastry Squares
Unfold each puff pastry sheet and cut along the folds to form rectangles. Further cut these rectangles in half to make six smaller pieces per sheet. Use a paring knife to score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle, ensuring not to cut through the dough.
5. Assemble the Danishes
Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling within the borders of each rectangle. Arrange the prepared strawberries decoratively over the filling.
6. Add Egg Wash and Sugar
Lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle sugar over the entire pastry if desired.
7. Chill Before Baking
If the dough has become warm or sticky, place the assembled pastries in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. This step helps the puff pastry achieve its best rise.
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the cooled danishes with warm strawberry jam for a glossy finish or drizzle with vanilla glaze made by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Notes
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Use raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries instead of strawberries.
- Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer filling.
- Opt for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lactose-free version.
- Creative Twists:
- Make a braided Danish by cutting and folding the puff pastry into a braid.
- Skip the cream cheese and fill with strawberry preserves for a simpler version.
- Add a sprinkle of sliced almonds or coconut flakes before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Serving Suggestions:
Serve these danishes warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-worthy treat. Pair with coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Breakdown
Strawberries
- 4 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sugar
The juicy strawberries provide a natural sweetness and a burst of flavor, while the cornstarch ensures a thick and glossy filling that stays in place during baking.
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This creamy filling adds a tangy balance to the sweetness of the strawberries, enhancing the overall flavor of the danish.
Danish Pastry
- 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water
- 2–3 tablespoons sugar for topping (optional)
Store-bought puff pastry saves time without compromising the flaky, buttery layers that define a classic Danish pastry.
Toppings
- ¼ cup (60 ml) strawberry jam (optional)
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) milk
These optional toppings allow you to customize the finish of your pastries, whether you prefer a shiny glaze or a drizzle of vanilla icing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Allow the puff pastry sheets to thaw at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Strawberry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure the strawberries are evenly coated. Let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Adjust the sweetness to taste.
4. Prepare the Puff Pastry Squares
Unfold each puff pastry sheet and cut along the folds to form rectangles. Further cut these rectangles in half to make six smaller pieces per sheet. Use a paring knife to score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle, ensuring not to cut through the dough.
5. Assemble the Danishes
Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling within the borders of each rectangle. Arrange the prepared strawberries decoratively over the filling.
6. Add Egg Wash and Sugar
Lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle sugar over the entire pastry if desired.
7. Chill Before Baking
If the dough has become warm or sticky, place the assembled pastries in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. This step helps the puff pastry achieve its best rise.
8. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the cooled danishes with warm strawberry jam for a glossy finish or drizzle with vanilla glaze made by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Vivid Descriptions of Flavors and Textures
When you bite into a freshly baked Strawberry Danish, the first sensation is the buttery, flaky puff pastry that almost melts in your mouth. The cream cheese filling offers a smooth and tangy contrast, while the strawberries add a burst of freshness. The optional glaze or jam topping introduces an extra layer of sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
Tips and Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Use raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries instead of strawberries.
- Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer filling.
- Opt for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lactose-free version.
- Creative Twists:
- Make a braided Danish by cutting and folding the puff pastry into a braid.
- Skip the cream cheese and fill with strawberry preserves for a simpler version.
- Add a sprinkle of sliced almonds or coconut flakes before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Serving Suggestions:
Serve these danishes warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-worthy treat. Pair with coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. To enjoy the danishes at their best, reheat them in a toaster oven or a regular oven for a few minutes until warm and crisp.
Strawberry Danish pastries are a testament to the beauty of simple yet luxurious baking. Their vibrant appearance and irresistible flavors make them a standout addition to any gathering or a delightful indulgence for a quiet morning. Give this recipe a try, and watch as your kitchen fills with the enticing aroma of fresh-baked pastry and sweet strawberries!