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
Scale
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
