Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Introduction
Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delicious and elegant pastry perfect for breakfast or brunch. With flaky puff pastry, creamy sweet cheese, and fresh strawberries, it’s a treat that’s both simple to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 package puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 egg, for egg wash
Instructions
- Step 1: Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares of your desired size.
- Step 4: Spoon a portion of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square, then top with sliced fresh strawberries.
- Step 5: Fold the corners of each square toward the center to seal and create a pocket.
- Step 6: Brush the tops with beaten egg to give a golden finish during baking.
- Step 7: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- Use frozen puff pastry if fresh is unavailable, just be sure to thaw properly.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Try other fresh fruits like blueberries or raspberries if strawberries aren’t in season.
- Press the corners gently but firmly to ensure the Danish stays sealed during baking.
Storage
Store any leftover Danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 4 days, though the pastry may lose some crispness. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore flakiness before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these Danishes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Danishes and keep them chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This makes them great for preparing in advance.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
For a lighter option, ricotta or mascarpone cheese can be used, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Sweeten to taste if needed.
PrintStrawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese mixture and fresh strawberries, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, these Danish pastries combine buttery layers with a luscious fruit filling for a delicious treat everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Thaw Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions until it is flexible and ready to work with.
- Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Cut Pastry Squares: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to even thickness. Cut the pastry into squares of even size suitable for individual pastries.
- Add Filling: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square. Then top with sliced fresh strawberries evenly distributed over the cream cheese.
- Form Danish Pockets: Fold the corners of each pastry square over the filling toward the center to seal and create a neat pocket, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush each pastry pocket lightly with the beaten egg to give them a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pastries on a lined baking sheet until they are puffed and golden brown, about 25 minutes.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Egg wash gives the pastries a beautiful shine and aids in browning; you can substitute with milk if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for best taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently.
Keywords: Strawberry Danish, Cream Cheese Danish, Puff Pastry Dessert, Baked Danish Pastry, Strawberry Cream Cheese
