The Strawberry Danish Recipe is an absolute delight for anyone who loves a perfect combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and juicy, fresh fruit. This recipe brings together sweet strawberries and smooth cream cheese inside a golden, buttery puff pastry that bakes up beautifully crisp and tender. Whether you’re preparing a cozy breakfast treat or an impressive dessert, this Strawberry Danish Recipe promises to fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and your heart with pure joy. It’s wonderfully approachable yet irresistibly elegant, making it a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Strawberry Danish Recipe plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures. The fresh strawberries bring natural sweetness and vivid color, while the cream cheese filling adds a rich, creamy contrast. Puff pastry provides that iconic flaky, buttery base, and the subtle hints of vanilla and sugar enhance the overall harmony of flavors.
- 4 cups sliced strawberries: Fresh and juicy for a naturally sweet topping that bursts with flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry juices, preventing sogginess in the pastry.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the tartness of the strawberries with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Creates a silky, smooth base for the filling that pairs beautifully with fruit.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that elevates the cream cheese mixture.
- 2 puff pastry sheets (thawed): The flaky, buttery canvas for this Danish—make sure they’re properly thawed for easy handling.
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water): Used for an egg wash that gives the pastry a beautiful golden sheen.
- Optional toppings – strawberry jam, additional sugar, vanilla glaze: Enhance the sweetness and presentation to suit your taste.
How to Make Strawberry Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Puff Pastry and Oven
Start by thawing your puff pastry sheets at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes—this makes them easier to work with and ensures an even bake. As the pastry softens, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Preparing these basics upfront sets you up for a smooth baking process.
Step 2: Macerate the Strawberries
Combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch in a bowl, giving them a gentle toss. Let them sit for 15 minutes. This step draws out the natural juices, letting the cornstarch thicken them slightly, which is essential for preventing a soggy Danish and keeping each bite perfectly juicy.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Then, blend in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This luscious filling is what makes the Strawberry Danish Recipe so indulgent, providing a velvety texture and a hint of vanilla sweetness to complement the berries.
Step 4: Shape the Danish
Roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets and cut them into rectangles—roughly the size you desire for your Danish. Score the edges lightly with a knife; this helps the pastry puff up beautifully around the filling, creating that charming border that’s signature to Danishes.
Step 5: Assemble the Danishes
Place a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry rectangle. Carefully spoon the macerated strawberries on top of the cream cheese. Brush the edges with the beaten egg wash to encourage a golden crust and sprinkle with a little sugar for an extra touch of sparkle and crunch if desired.
Step 6: Chill Before Baking
Pop the assembled pastries into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes before baking. This chilling step helps the pastry hold its shape and improves the puffiness, so when these beauties hit the oven, they rise perfectly and maintain that lovely, flaky texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your strawberry danishes in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly so the filling sets just right before serving. The aroma alone will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in!
How to Serve Strawberry Danish Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a drizzle of vanilla glaze or a dollop of strawberry jam on top takes your Strawberry Danish Recipe to the next level. Dusting with powdered sugar or freshly chopped mint leaves not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the fresh flavors and presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve your Strawberry Danish alongside a cup of strong coffee or a glass of chilled milk for a classic combination. For a brunch spread, pair it with fresh fruit salad or a selection of cheeses to create a balanced and inviting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
You can arrange mini Strawberry Danish pastries on a tiered dessert stand for a stunning display at parties or family gatherings. Alternatively, serve alongside whipped cream or homemade vanilla ice cream for a decadently sweet treat that feels like a special occasion every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Strawberry Danish, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the pastry crisp and the filling fresh, perfect for enjoying later without losing any of that homemade charm.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each Danish individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and refresh in the oven for a few minutes to regain that wonderful flakiness.
Reheating
Reheat your Strawberry Danish gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 8 minutes. This method revives the crispiness of the puff pastry without making the cream cheese filling tough, ensuring each bite is as delightful as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if you thaw them properly and drain excess liquid. Just be aware that frozen berries might release more moisture, so adjusting the cornstarch quantity can help maintain the right consistency.
Is puff pastry difficult to work with for beginners?
Not at all! Puff pastry is quite user-friendly, especially if you buy pre-made sheets. Just remember to thaw it slowly and keep it cold while handling to prevent it from becoming sticky or tearing, and you’ll get excellent results.
Can I make this strawberry danish recipe vegan?
Yes, with a few swaps! Use vegan puff pastry, dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, and a plant-based egg substitute or simply brush with maple syrup or plant milk for the glaze. The flavors will still be deliciously inviting.
What is the best way to prevent soggy pastry with juicy fruit?
Thickening the fruit’s juices with cornstarch and chilling the assembled danishes before baking both help considerably. The cornstarch absorbs excess juice, and chilling encourages the pastry to hold its shape and puff beautifully rather than getting soggy.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Absolutely! You can assemble the danishes and keep them chilled for a few hours before baking. This way, you can bake fresh danishes just before your guests arrive for that perfect golden finish and fresh aroma.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that tastes like a warm hug on a plate, the Strawberry Danish Recipe is your new go-to. It’s approachable, scrumptious, and truly a crowd-pleaser whether for a casual breakfast or an elegant brunch. I promise once you try making these, they’ll become a beloved classic in your kitchen too. Happy baking, and enjoy every flaky, fruity bite!
Print
Strawberry Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these homemade Strawberry Danish pastries, combining flaky puff pastry with a creamy vanilla cream cheese filling and fresh strawberry topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these danishes are lightly sweetened and beautifully golden-baked to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pastry
- 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water
Optional Toppings
- Strawberry jam
- Additional sugar
- Vanilla glaze
Instructions
- Prepare Pastry and Oven: Thaw puff pastry sheets at room temperature for 30-45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Macreate Strawberries: In a mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release juices while thickening with cornstarch.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Prepare Puff Pastry Rectangles: Cut the thawed puff pastry sheets into rectangles of desired size. Lightly score the edges to create a border, which helps define the filling area and puff pastry rise.
- Assemble Danishes: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each rectangle. Top the cream cheese with a generous layer of the macerated strawberries. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg wash to ensure a shiny glaze and help seal the pastry. Optionally, sprinkle additional sugar over the edges.
- Chill Before Baking: Chill the assembled danishes in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This step promotes better puffing and prevents the filling from leaking during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the pastries are golden brown and puffed. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, brush with strawberry jam or drizzle with vanilla glaze for extra sweetness and shine.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before cutting and assembling for best texture.
- Chilling the assembled danishes improves puff pastry rise and prevents filling from leaking.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easy blending and smooth filling.
- Optional toppings such as strawberry jam or vanilla glaze add extra flavor and presentation appeal.
- These danishes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
