Description
This Strawberry Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese mixture topped with fresh strawberries for a delightful homemade pastry perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the Danish pastry.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into squares, typically four equal pieces. Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will be the rich, sweet filling for the pastry.
- Assemble the Danish: Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a border around the edges to allow for folding.
- Add the Strawberry Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with lemon juice to brighten their flavor. Spoon this mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer on each pastry square.
- Fold the Pastry: Fold the corners of each pastry square toward the center, forming an envelope shape to encase the filling without sealing it completely, allowing steam to escape during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush the exposed pastry with beaten egg to achieve a glossy, golden finish. Sprinkle the top with granulated sugar for added sweetness and slight crunch.
- Bake the Danish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your fresh homemade strawberry Danish warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is completely thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust sugar amounts to taste, especially if strawberries are very sweet or tart.
- The lemon juice prevents the strawberries from browning and adds a bright note.
- Egg wash creates a shiny and appealing golden crust.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
