Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Few pastries are as universally adored as the Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish. With its buttery, flaky puff pastry base, luscious cream cheese center, and sweet strawberry topping, it’s a delightful balance of richness and brightness. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a special weekend treat, these danishes look bakery-worthy yet are incredibly easy to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Puff pastry sheet (thawed)
1 sheet - Cream cheese (softened)
8 oz - Granulated sugar
3 tbsp - Fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp - Strawberry jam
½ cup - Fresh strawberries (sliced)
½ cup - Egg + water (for egg wash)
1 egg + 1 tbsp - Powdered sugar
¾ cup - Milk
1 ½ tbsp - Vanilla extract
¼ tsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry Base1. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Unfold thawed puff pastry and roll slightly to flatten.
3. Cut lengthwise into two long rectangles. Score a ½-inch border around each rectangle without cutting all the way through. Dock the center with a fork to keep it from puffing too much.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Spread evenly inside the scored area, leaving the border untouched.
- Add the Strawberry Topping1. Spoon strawberry jam over the cream cheese layer, spreading gently.
2. Arrange fresh strawberry slices on top for extra flavor and color.
- Egg Wash & Bake1. Whisk egg + water to make an egg wash. Brush along the pastry edges.
2. Bake 20 minutes or until golden brown and set. Cool 10 minutes before glazing.
- Drizzle the Vanilla Glaze1. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled danishes in a zig-zag motion. Serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Keep it chilled until ready to use to maintain flakiness.
- Use Ripe Strawberries: Deep red berries give the best flavor and color.
- Don’t Overbake: Pull them out as soon as the pastry is golden to keep them tender.
- Chill Before Serving (Optional): For a firmer filling, refrigerate for 30 minutes after glazing.
Serving & Storage
- Serving: Best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh crispiness.
The Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is proof that bakery-quality pastries don’t have to be complicated. With ready-made puff pastry and a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert (or breakfast) that wows every time.
