Strawberry Danish Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a sweet, flaky, and irresistible breakfast treat, this Strawberry Danish Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture golden puff pastry layers cradling a smooth cream cheese filling, topped with fresh, juicy strawberries that burst with natural sweetness. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that feel both elegant and comforting, making it a perfect pastry to share with loved ones on a cozy weekend morning or for impressing guests at brunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Strawberry Danish Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the puff pastry provides flakiness and structure, strawberries add fresh fruitiness, cream cheese brings creamy richness, and a touch of vanilla and sugar enhances the overall sweetness and depth. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll gather before creating this delicious pastry.

• 4 cups sliced strawberries: Fresh and ripe strawberries bring natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry juices so the filling isn’t watery.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a touch of extra sweetness to the strawberries.
• 8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature: Provides a rich, creamy base that balances the fruit’s tartness.
• ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the cream cheese filling perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aromatic depth to the filling.
• 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed: The flaky, buttery foundation of this Danish.
• 1 large egg (lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water): For brushing the pastry edges to get that beautiful golden color.
• 2 – 3 tablespoons sugar for topping, optional: Adds crunch and sparkle when sprinkled on top.
• ¼ cup (60 ml) strawberry jam, optional for topping: Enhances strawberry flavor and adds glossiness.
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar: For the optional vanilla glaze to drizzle.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: To flavor the glaze.
• 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk: To make the glaze silky smooth.

How to Make Strawberry Danish Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry and Oven

First things first, make sure your puff pastry sheets are thawed at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes so they’re easy to work with. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. These simple preps set the stage for perfect puffed pastries.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch, ensuring every piece is nicely coated. This coating not only sweetens the strawberries but also thickens their natural juices during baking. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to macerate and release their flavors.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you have a luscious, creamy filling. Taste it and tweak if needed – a little extra sugar or vanilla can make a big difference for your taste buds!

Step 4: Cut and Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unfold one puff pastry sheet into a square and cut it along the existing folds into 6 smaller rectangles. Using a small pairing knife, score a ¼ inch border around each rectangle without cutting all the way through. This will help the edges puff up nicely and contain the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Danishes

Spoon about one tablespoon of the cream cheese filling into the center of each puff pastry rectangle, carefully staying inside the scored borders. Next, arrange the strawberries attractively on top of the cream cheese. Brush the pastry edges with the beaten egg wash to encourage golden browning, then sprinkle a bit of sugar on top if you want that delightful sparkle.

Step 6: Chill and Bake

If your puff pastry feels warm or sticky, pop the tray into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to chill. This little trick helps the pastry puff up beautifully in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastries turn a lovely light golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Add Final Touches

Allow the Danishes to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to come to room temperature. While cooling, warm your strawberry jam and brush it onto each Danish for a glossy finish. If you’d rather use a vanilla glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled pastries. Now get ready to indulge!

How to Serve Strawberry Danish Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Strawberry Danish Recipe extra special, garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of vanilla glaze. Fresh mint leaves can add a burst of color and a subtle herbal note that elevates the overall presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve your danishes alongside a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a creamy latte for a delightful brunch experience. Fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream can complement the richness and sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing platter, arrange several Strawberry Danishes with fresh strawberry halves and edible flowers around. Alternatively, try slicing the danishes into smaller portions for elegant finger food at a party. Pairing with a small bowl of lightly sweetened vanilla yogurt makes for a fun and interactive breakfast or dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Strawberry Danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the pastry from getting soggy, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture. If you need to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option but might slightly soften the puff pastry.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked assembled danishes by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with baking instructions. For baked danishes, wrap tightly and freeze; reheat in the oven to refresh crispness.

Reheating

To enjoy the danishes warm, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 8 minutes until the pastry is crisp and the filling is warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it might make the pastry soggy and chewy instead of flaky and tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe because they hold their shape and color better, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture before using.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can try mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different but equally creamy filling. Keep in mind mascarpone is sweeter and ricotta is grainier, so adjust the powdered sugar accordingly.

Do I need to use puff pastry sheets or can I make my own?

While homemade puff pastry can be delicious, it is quite labor-intensive. Using store-bought puff pastry is a time-saving and reliable method that still produces fantastic flaky layers.

Can I prepare the filling a day in advance?

Yes! The cream cheese filling can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before assembling.

What’s the best way to prevent soggy pastry bottoms?

Make sure to chill the assembled pastries before baking and avoid overly juicy fillings. The cornstarch in the strawberries helps, and baking on parchment helps absorb moisture as well.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Danish Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into an eye-catching and irresistible treat. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy breakfast at home, you’ll love the balance of flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and luscious strawberries. Give it a try, and prepare to create a new favorite in your baking repertoire that friends and family will ask for again and again.

Print