Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

If you are searching for a delightful pastry that combines flaky, buttery layers with luscious cream cheese and juicy strawberries, look no further than this Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe. This heavenly treat is perfect for brunch, a cozy breakfast, or a sweet snack that will brighten any day. The melding of tart strawberries with smooth cream cheese wrapped in golden puff pastry is a match made in heaven, and I can’t wait to share all the tips and tricks to make this recipe your new favorite go-to dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that each play a vital role in the final taste and texture. From the fresh strawberries to the puff pastry, every element brings something special to the table, ensuring a perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and flakiness in every bite.

• 4 cups sliced strawberries: The star fruit adds vibrant color, fresh flavor, and natural juiciness to the danishes.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry juices so the filling is nicely set, not watery.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to enhance the natural strawberry flavor.
• 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature: Provides the creamy, tangy base that contrasts beautifully with the fruit.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling to perfection and enables a silky texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out the warm flavors in the cream cheese mixture.
• 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed: The flaky, buttery crust that makes this Danish so irresistible.
• 1 large egg (lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water): Used to brush on the pastry edges to achieve a gorgeous golden finish.
• 2 – 3 tablespoons sugar for topping (optional): Adds sparkle and a delicate crunch when sprinkled on top before baking.
• ¼ cup strawberry jam (optional for topping): Adds a glossy, sweet finish for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For making the luscious vanilla glaze.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: To flavor the glaze with subtle aromatic notes.
• 2 – 3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze consistency for easy drizzling.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Oven

Begin by thawing your puff pastry at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes—this makes it easy to handle and ensures it bakes up flaky and perfect. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to a warm 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine your sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch, stirring gently to coat each berry. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the fruit to release some juice, which will thicken as it bakes into a luscious filling.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy—you want it silky without lumps. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract for sweetness and warmth. Taste and adjust if needed; this filling is the rich, tangy heart of your danish.

Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, then cut along the folds to create six smaller rectangles in total. Use a small knife to gently score a border about ¼ inch from the edges of each rectangle—this will allow the edges to puff up stunningly while keeping the filling in place.

Step 5: Assemble the Danishes

Spoon about one tablespoon of the cream cheese filling neatly into the center of each puff pastry rectangle, staying inside the scored border. Then, layer the prepared strawberry slices decoratively on top of the cream cheese. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg wash to help achieve a lovely golden-brown crust once baked. If you like extra sparkle and crunch, sprinkle with a little sugar.

Step 6: Chill and Bake

If the puff pastry feels warm or soft after assembling, pop the baking sheets into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes. Chilling helps the dough puff up beautifully for a light, airy texture. Bake the danishes for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry turns a delightful 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 cooling rack to reach room temperature. For a luscious finish, brush with warm strawberry jam or drizzle with a homemade vanilla glaze made by whisking powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract. This final step elevates the danish to something utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

Garnishes

Adding simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of vanilla glaze makes your danish visually appealing and offers a delicate extra layer of sweetness. Fresh mint leaves or thin slices of fresh strawberries on top can add a burst of color and freshness that wow your guests.

Side Dishes

Serve these danishes alongside a cup of rich coffee, hot tea, or even a creamy latte for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. Fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait pairs wonderfully to balance the richness of the pastry and cream cheese filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging individual danishes on a rustic wooden board with bowls of strawberry jam, whipped cream, and fresh berries for a charming spread. You can also skewer smaller versions with fresh strawberries and mint for a fun handheld treat at parties or showers. Presentation can turn this simple Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe into an elegant centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The puff pastry is at its best when freshly baked, so try to enjoy them within that time frame for optimal flakiness and flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, these danishes freeze beautifully. Arrange the cooled danishes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to one month.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the danishes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until heated through and the pastry regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess. Adding the glaze after reheating keeps things fresh and glossy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the pastry soggy. Adjust the cornstarch slightly if the filling seems too wet.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and use puff pastry that does not contain butter if you want a fully dairy-free version. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might be a bit different, but still delicious.

Can I prepare these danishes ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely. Assemble your danishes and keep them chilled until baking. You can also prepare them fully and freeze before baking. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have puff pastry sheets?

Puff pastry is key to the flaky texture of this recipe, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can try using crescent roll dough in a pinch, though the texture will be less airy. For best results, pick up some high-quality puff pastry from the freezer section.

How sweet is this Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe?

The sweetness level is nicely balanced, thanks to the tart strawberries and tangy cream cheese filling. You can always adjust the amount of sugar in the filling or toppings according to your personal preference for a more or less sweet treat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the strawberries, cream cheese, and puff pastry coming together in this Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe. It’s one of those recipes that feels both luxurious and approachable, perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests with minimal effort. I hope you give it a try soon—once you do, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire just like it is in mine!

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