If you’re a fan of flaky pastries with a sweet and creamy filling, you’ll love this homemade Strawberry Danish with Cream Cheese recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this delightful treat combines buttery puff pastry, a luscious cream cheese filling, and juicy strawberries for a bakery-quality pastry made right in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Danish
Easy to Make – Using store-bought puff pastry saves time without compromising flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as a breakfast treat, dessert, or party snack.
Customizable – Swap strawberries for other berries or add a drizzle of glaze for extra indulgence.
Strawberry Danish Ingredients
the Danish Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch (to prevent sogginess)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberry Danish Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Strawberries
In a small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and cornstarch. This helps the fruit release its natural sweetness while preventing excess moisture from making the pastry soggy.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
3. Cut and Shape the Pastry
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into four equal squares.
- Lightly score a smaller square inside each piece (without cutting all the way through) to create a border.
4. Assemble your Strawberry Danish
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each square.
- Top with a few slices of prepared strawberries.
- Brush the edges with the beaten egg for a golden, flaky crust.
5. Bake Your Strawberry Danish to Golden Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Let the pastries cool slightly before adding the glaze.
6. Add the Glaze (Optional)
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled pastries for a bakery-style finish.
Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Danish
Use Chilled Pastry – Warm pastry dough won’t puff up properly. Keep it cold before baking.
Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can cause the pastry to become soggy and leak.
Enhance Flavor – Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for extra depth.
Storage & Reheating – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a crisp texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes! Thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in the pastry.
2. What Can I Substitute for Puff Pastry?
You can use crescent roll dough or homemade pastry dough for a similar effect.
3. Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, assemble them the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.
4. How Do I Prevent a Soggy Bottom?
Make sure to toss the strawberries with cornstarch and avoid overloading with filling.
5. Can I Use Other Fruits?
Absolutely! Try blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries for variety.
Now that you know how easy it is to make Strawberry Danish with Cream Cheese, why not try it this weekend? Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! 🍓🥐