Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Introduction
Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful, flaky pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and fresh strawberries. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, this easy-to-make treat combines buttery puff pastry with fruity sweetness for a delicious homemade pastry experience.
Ingredients
- 1 package puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 egg, for egg wash
Instructions
- Step 1: Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions until it is soft enough to roll out.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares of your desired size.
- Step 4: Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square, then add a few slices of fresh strawberries on top.
- Step 5: Fold the corners of each square over the filling to seal it, forming a neat pocket.
- Step 6: Beat the egg and brush it gently over the surface of each Danish to help them bake to a golden brown.
- Step 7: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes or until the pastries are puffed and golden.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Try using different fruits like blueberries or peaches instead of strawberries.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover Danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven to restore flakiness and warmth before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid soggy pastry.
Is it necessary to use egg wash?
Egg wash gives the Danish a beautiful golden color and shine, but you can skip it if you prefer a more matte finish.
PrintStrawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Delight in the flaky, buttery texture of our Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish, featuring a luscious cream cheese filling sweetened with vanilla and sugar, topped with fresh strawberries. This easy-to-make Danish pastry is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 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
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, for egg wash
Instructions
- Thaw Puff Pastry: Allow the puff pastry to thaw according to the package instructions to ensure it is pliable and easy to work with.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir or beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Cut Pastry Squares: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into even squares suitable for individual pastries.
- Add Filling and Strawberries: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square, then top with sliced fresh strawberries.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the corners of each pastry square over the filling to create a sealed pocket, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top of each Danish to achieve a beautiful golden brown finish when baked.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the Danish pastries on a baking sheet until they are puffed and golden brown, approximately 25 minutes.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is properly thawed to prevent cracking when folding.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Egg wash gives the pastry a glossy, golden finish but can be omitted or substituted with milk for a lighter appearance.
- Allow pastries to cool slightly before serving to let the filling set.
- Variations can include adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or using other fresh fruits like blueberries or raspberries.
Keywords: Strawberry Danish, Cream Cheese Pastry, Puff Pastry Dessert, Breakfast Pastry, Easy Danish Recipe
