Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Introduction
Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry that combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy, sweet filling and fresh strawberries. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, this recipe is simple to make and sure to impress.
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 until it is pliable and ready to use.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into even squares.
- Step 4: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, then top with sliced fresh strawberries.
- Step 5: Fold the corners of each square over the filling to form a sealed pocket.
- Step 6: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries to give them a golden, shiny finish.
- Step 7: Bake the danishes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Use frozen puff pastry, but ensure it is fully thawed before assembling for best results.
- Try other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches as a variation.
- If you prefer a sweeter topping, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking.
Storage
Store leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or regular oven to maintain crispness.
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 refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dough will be cold.
What can I use instead of puff pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough or homemade pastry dough, but the texture and flakiness will be slightly different.
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Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish featuring flaky puff pastry filled with creamy sweetened cream cheese and fresh strawberries, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Base
- 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Fruit Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Finishing
- 1 egg, for egg wash
Instructions
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions to ensure it is pliable and ready for use.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.
- Cut Pastry Squares: Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a clean surface and roll it out slightly if needed. Cut the pastry into equal-sized squares, ensuring they are large enough to hold the filling and fold over.
- Fill the Pastry: Spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square, then add a few slices of fresh strawberries on top of the cream cheese.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the corners of each square towards the center to create a pocket or envelope shape, pressing gently to seal the edges and encase the filling.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg lightly and brush it over the surface of each assembled danish to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Do not overfill the danishes to prevent leaking during baking.
- If puff pastry is frozen, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
- Egg wash helps the pastry develop a beautiful golden color and shine but can be omitted for an egg-free version, though color may be less vibrant.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
- Fresh seasonal strawberries can be substituted with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry Danish, Cream Cheese Danish, Puff Pastry Dessert, Breakfast Pastry, Fruit Danish
