Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danishes Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines flaky pastry, luscious cream cheese, and juicy strawberries, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danishes Recipe is going to be your new favorite! This recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet and creamy with a crisp, golden puff pastry base that feels light and indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re serving breakfast for guests or a charming afternoon snack, these danishes are a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress everyone with beautifully layered strawberries atop a creamy, dreamy filling wrapped in buttery puff pastry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect texture and flavor for your danishes. From the tangy cream cheese to the fresh strawberries and flaky puff pastry, every element works together in harmony.

• 4 cups sliced strawberries: Fresh and juicy strawberries are the star fruit that gives the danishes a bright, summery flavor and vibrant color.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This helps thicken the strawberry mixture so it’s not too runny when baked.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the strawberries, balancing their natural tartness.
• 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature: Creates a smooth, rich filling that melts in your mouth.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling perfectly without making it gritty.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses both the cream cheese filling and glaze with warm, comforting notes.
• 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed: The buttery, flaky foundation that makes these danishes irresistibly light and crisp.
• 1 large egg lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water: Provides a beautiful golden sheen on the pastry edges.
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar for topping (optional): Adds crunch and sparkly sweetness on top of the crust.
• ¼ cup strawberry jam (optional): For an extra glossy finish and boost of berry flavor after baking.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Combines with milk and vanilla to create a sweet drizzle that elevates the presentation.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the glaze with subtle depth.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Adjusts glaze consistency to a perfect pourable texture.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danishes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Puff Pastry and Oven

Start by letting your puff pastry thaw at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes—this makes it easier to work with and ensures it puffs beautifully in the oven. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for a non-stick, easy clean-up experience.

Step 2: Macerate the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes so the cornstarch can work its magic thickening the juices and the sugar can gently sweeten the fruit. This step is key for juicy, yet not soggy danishes.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling

Next, mix your room temperature cream cheese until it’s silky smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is completely combined and creamy. A perfectly smooth filling is so important because it creates that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Cut and Score the Puff Pastry

Unfold one sheet of puff pastry to a flat square. Cut along the fold lines and then cut each rectangle in half to form six smaller rectangles. Using a small knife, gently score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle—just enough to create a defined edge without cutting all the way through the dough. This border helps the edges puff and keeps the filling contained.

Step 5: Assemble the Danishes

Spread about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling into the center of each pastry rectangle, carefully staying within the scored border. Then, artfully layer your macerated strawberries on top of the cream cheese, creating a pretty pattern. Brush the pastry edges with the egg wash for that golden glow, and sprinkle with sugar if you want an extra crunch and sparkle.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking (If Needed)

If at this point your pastry feels soft or sticky, pop the trays into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes. Chilling the dough first helps the danishes puff up nicely without sagging or melting.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your danishes for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re gorgeously golden brown. Once out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack—this little patience pays off in texture and ease of handling.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches

For that professional touch, warm your strawberry jam slightly and brush it over the cooled danishes for a glossy finish. Alternatively, whip up a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract and drizzle it over for a sweet, silky finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danishes Recipe

Garnishes

These danishes look incredible topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves to add a pop of green and freshness. If you want to get creative, a handful of toasted sliced almonds adds a delightful crunch that complements the softness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your danishes with a simple fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream to keep the morning light and balanced. They also go beautifully alongside a cup of black coffee or a milky chai latte, making your breakfast or brunch feel truly special.

Creative Ways to Present

Present the danishes on a rustic wooden board or decorative cake stand to impress your guests. For a playful twist, serve mini versions by cutting the puff pastry smaller and adjusting the filling accordingly—a charming way to offer bite-sized delights at a party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the pastry flaky, avoid refrigeration when possible, or reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked, assembled danishes by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time for a fresh-baked flavor anytime you crave them.

Reheating

Reheat leftover danishes in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to revive the flaky texture and warm the filling. Microwaving may soften the pastry too much, so the oven method is definitely best when you want to enjoy them as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are best for maintaining texture and bright flavor in this recipe, but if frozen strawberries are all you have, be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid soggy danishes.

Is there a substitute for puff pastry?

Puff pastry is key for the characteristic flaky layers, but if unavailable, phyllo dough or croissant dough can work as alternatives, though results will differ slightly in texture.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Yes! The cream cheese mixture can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before assembling the danishes.

What if I don’t have cornstarch for the strawberries?

You can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour, but cornstarch usually gives the best clear glaze and texture with less heaviness.

How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Adjust the milk in the glaze slowly: add more milk for a thinner consistency perfect for drizzling, or less milk for a thicker glaze that spreads beautifully over the top.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danishes Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves sweet, fresh flavors combined with buttery, crisp pastry. It’s approachable yet impressive, making it a perfect choice whether you’re treating yourself or cooking for friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and delight in the layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe so special. Happy baking!

Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danishes Recipe

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3.9 from 30 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This delightful Strawberry Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry topped with a smooth cream cheese filling and fresh, vibrantly sweet strawberries. Baked to golden perfection, these pastries make an elegant breakfast or a sweet treat perfect for gatherings or casual indulgence. The danishes are finished with either a fruity strawberry jam glaze or a simple powdered sugar glaze, adding an extra layer of sweetness and shine.

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Ingredients

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Strawberry Mixture

• 4 cups sliced strawberries
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Puff Pastry

• 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water
• 2 – 3 tablespoons sugar, for topping (optional)

Glaze/Topping

• ¼ cup (60 ml) strawberry jam (optional, for topping)
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare Puff Pastry and Preheat Oven: Thaw the puff pastry sheets at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes to ensure they’re pliable. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Strawberry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes at room temperature to macerate and thicken slightly.
3. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or vanilla as desired.
4. Cut Puff Pastry: Unfold one puff pastry sheet on a clean surface to form a square. Cut along the folded lines, then slice each long rectangle in half to create six smaller rectangles per sheet.
5. Score Pastry Borders: Using a small, sharp knife, lightly score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle without cutting all the way through. This will create a raised edge when baked.
6. Add Cream Cheese Layer: Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling into the center of each rectangle, carefully staying within the scored border to prevent overflow during baking.
7. Top with Strawberries and Egg Wash: Layer the sliced strawberries decoratively over the cream cheese filling. Brush the edges of each pastry with the beaten egg mixture to lock in golden color, then sprinkle the edges with sugar if using, for a sweet crunch.
8. Chill if Necessary: If the pastry becomes too warm or sticky during assembly, chill the trays of assembled danishes in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to help maintain shape and promote puffing during baking.
9. Bake the Danishes: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
10. Glaze and Serve: While the danishes are cooling, prepare the glaze if desired. Warm strawberry jam slightly and brush over each danish for a glossy finish, or whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a simple glaze to drizzle on top. Serve the danishes at room temperature.

Notes

• Ensure puff pastry is well thawed but still cool before working with it for best puffing results.
• Be sure to score but not cut through the puff pastry to help it rise with a distinct border.
• Customize toppings by adding a sprinkle of sliced almonds or a dusting of cinnamon onto the strawberries before baking if desired.
• If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture.
• Leftover danishes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature and refreshed in a warm oven before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast Pastry
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American