Strawberry Danish Recipe
If you’re searching for a sweet treat that looks like it belongs in a bakery window but is surprisingly easy to make at home, look no further than the Strawberry Danish. With flaky, buttery puff pastry, a dreamy cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries piled on top, this recipe is pure joy in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up, the Strawberry Danish is a showstopper that will have everyone reaching for seconds—and asking for the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Danish is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the crisp pastry to the tangy filling and bright berries. Here’s what you need and why it matters:
- Puff Pastry: This frozen staple puffs up golden and crisp, creating the perfect base with zero fuss.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling its classic creamy tang and smooth texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese just enough to balance the savory notes of the pastry.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that enhances every other flavor.
- Lemon Zest: A little zest wakes up the filling with a bright, citrusy kick that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show, sliced strawberries add color, juiciness, and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Egg (for Egg Wash): Brushed on the pastry edges, this gives your Strawberry Danish that gorgeous golden sheen.
- Powdered Sugar: Whisked with milk, it becomes a silky glaze to drizzle on top for extra sweetness and shine.
- Milk: Just a splash helps create the perfect drizzling consistency for your glaze.
How to Make Strawberry Danish
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze. This step is key for getting that golden, bakery-style finish on your Strawberry Danish.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This filling is what gives each bite of your Strawberry Danish its luscious, tangy flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly roll out your thawed puff pastry sheet just to even the thickness, then cut it into four equal squares. Place each square onto your prepared baking sheet, giving them a little room to puff up as they bake.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Danish
Spoon a generous tablespoon of cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square, leaving a clean border around the edges. Neatly arrange sliced strawberries over the cream cheese, letting the color peek through. For a classic look, fold each corner slightly inward, or leave them open for a more rustic, homemade vibe.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the exposed edges of each pastry with the egg wash (one beaten egg plus a splash of water). This simple step ensures your Strawberry Danish comes out with an irresistible golden-brown shine. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, until the pastries are puffed and beautifully browned.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Once baked, let your Strawberry Danish cool for a few minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the slightly cooled pastries for a sweet, glossy finish that takes them over the top. Serve right away, and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Strawberry Danish
Garnishes
For that bakery-perfect touch, try dusting your Strawberry Danish with a little extra powdered sugar or adding a few fresh mint leaves for color and contrast. A brush of warm apricot jam on the strawberries after baking adds irresistible shine and a hint of fruity flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Danish with a hot cup of coffee, a frothy cappuccino, or a refreshing pitcher of iced tea. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit salad, vanilla yogurt, or a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette all complement the pastry beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, arrange your Strawberry Danish on a pretty cake stand and scatter a few extra berries around for a pop of color. You can also cut the pastries into smaller triangles or rectangles for bite-sized party treats, or serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Strawberry Danish (a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days, though the pastry will be crispiest on the first day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the danishes cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For that just-baked experience, reheat your Strawberry Danish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes. This will revive the pastry’s flaky texture and warm up the creamy filling without making it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe, as they hold their shape and don’t release too much juice. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well to prevent sogginess in your Strawberry Danish.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese filling?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk for the glaze. The Strawberry Danish will still be creamy and delicious.
What if I don’t have puff pastry?
Puff pastry is key to that signature flaky texture, but in a pinch, you could try crescent roll dough or even homemade pie dough, though the result will be less airy than a classic Strawberry Danish.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The cream cheese filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble, just give it a quick stir and proceed with the recipe.
How do I keep the pastry crisp if making ahead?
To keep your Strawberry Danish crisp, store them uncovered at room temperature for a few hours or reheat briefly in the oven just before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Strawberry Danish is a must-try for anyone who loves a treat that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. I hope you’ll give this recipe a whirl and share it with friends and family—it’s bound to become a new favorite!
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Strawberry Danish Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Strawberry Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture and topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these pastries are baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a light powdered sugar glaze. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, they’re ideal for berry lovers and pastry enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Pastry and Filling
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water
Glaze
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which will add a flavorful base for the filling.
- Cut Puff Pastry: Lightly roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 4 equal squares. Place each square on the prepared baking sheet, allowing enough space between them for puffing.
- Assemble Danishes: Spread about a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each square, leaving a clear border around the edges. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the cream cheese layer, distributing evenly.
- Optional Folding: You can fold the corners of each pastry square slightly inward for a tidy look or leave the edges open for a rustic appearance, depending on your preference.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg and water mixture. This egg wash helps the pastry achieve a beautiful golden brown color during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown, indicating they are perfectly cooked and crispy.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet to set and make them easier to handle.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk until smooth and drizzleable to create a sweet finishing touch.
- Drizzle Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm danishes before serving to add extra sweetness and shine.
Notes
- You can substitute raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries for the strawberries to vary the flavor.
- For an extra glossy finish, brush warm apricot jam over the strawberries after baking.
- Ensure the puff pastry is well thawed but still cold to achieve maximum puff and crispness.
- Use freshly grated lemon zest for the best flavor impact.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Danish, European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 danish
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
