When I first made this Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to create something so bakery-worthy at home. The flaky puff pastry, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries come together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself to a cozy morning, this recipe is a must-try. You can also enjoy similar breakfast recipes like blueberry muffins for a fruity twist on your mornings.
Ingredients for the Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
Creating this delicious treat requires just a handful of ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in making the Danish irresistible.
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed: Puff pastry is the base of this recipe, providing that signature flaky texture. Make sure it’s fully thawed for easy handling.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: The creamy filling is the heart of this Danish. Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth and spreadable consistency.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the cream cheese mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling with a warm, aromatic touch.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced: Fresh strawberries bring a burst of fruity flavor and vibrant color. Avoid frozen strawberries, as they can release too much moisture.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the pastry a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Note: This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for a small gathering or a week of indulgent breakfasts.
Variations to Suit Your Preferences
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is versatile and can be customized to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a plant-based puff pastry.
- Sugar-Free Version: Replace powdered sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture or drizzle the finished Danish with honey for extra sweetness.
- Berry Swaps: Try using blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different fruity twist.
You can also explore recipes like strawberry muffins for more berry-inspired ideas.
Cooking Time Breakdown
Here’s how long it will take to whip up this delightful treat:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- Baking sheet: For baking the pastries to golden perfection.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowl: To prepare the cream cheese filling.
- Rolling pin: For rolling out the puff pastry.
- Pastry brush: To apply the egg wash for a golden finish.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
Making this Danish is simpler than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof result.
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry and roll it into a 12×10 inch rectangle. Cut the pastry into 6 equal squares.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the luscious filling for your Danish.
Step 3: Assemble the Danish
Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over each puff pastry square. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the cream cheese. Fold the corners of each square towards the center, creating a diamond shape, and crimp the edges slightly to seal.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden-brown finish. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and golden. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience, a few small tweaks can make this recipe even more delightful:
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture. Frozen strawberries can make the pastry soggy.
- Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives the Danish a professional, bakery-style finish.
- If you want a sweeter treat, drizzle the finished pastries with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Roll the puff pastry evenly to ensure all the Danishes bake at the same rate.
How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
Presentation is key when serving this delightful treat. Arrange the Danishes on a platter and dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or brunch. You can also serve them alongside other breakfast favorites like breakfast recipes to create a complete spread.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 18g
How to Store Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
To keep your Danishes fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Storing: Place the cooled Danishes in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each Danish individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm the Danishes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a bakery-quality treat at home.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Danish fits the bill.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant strawberries and golden pastry make for an Instagram-worthy dish.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this sweet and flaky treat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries, as frozen ones can release too much moisture and make the pastry soggy.
Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
You can substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the pastry from sticking to the baking sheet?
Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will ensure the pastries don’t stick and make cleanup easier.
