Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful treat that tastes like a bakery masterpiece but is surprisingly easy to make at home, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Imagine flaky, buttery puff pastry layered with a luscious cream cheese filling, topped with fresh, juicy strawberries that burst with sweetness. Every bite offers a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crisp textures, making it a crowd-pleaser whether for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. With this recipe, you’ll bring that irresistible, café-style vibe right into your kitchen without any fancy equipment or complicated steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is what makes this Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe flawless in both taste and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the smooth cream cheese that adds richness to the fresh strawberries that bring a refreshing brightness. The puff pastry gives you that wonderfully crisp and flaky base that holds it all together beautifully.

• 4 cups sliced strawberries: The star fresh fruit providing natural sweetness and a vibrant red color.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry filling so it stays perfect on the pastry.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Enhances the strawberries’ natural flavor for just the right amount of sweetness.
• 8 oz. cream cheese (room temperature): Creates that creamy, dreamy texture essential to the filling.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without any graininess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese filling and glaze.
• 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed: The crispy, flaky base that makes this dessert show-stopping.
• 1 large egg beaten with 1 teaspoon water: Gives the pastry edges a shiny, golden finish.
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar for topping (optional): Adds a sparkly crunch and extra sweetness when sprinkled on top.
• ¼ cup strawberry jam (optional for topping): For a glossy, fruity glaze that gives the danishes extra shine and flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Used to make a simple, sweet glaze to drizzle over.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the glaze with a subtle fragrant note.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Adjusts the glaze consistency for perfect drizzling.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry and Oven

Start by thawing your puff pastry sheets at room temperature, allowing them to become pliable but not too soft. This helps them bake up light and flaky. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper so nothing sticks—this little prep work makes cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling

Combine your sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. The sugar enhances the strawberries’ flavor while the cornstarch thickens their juices during baking, so your filling won’t be runny. Letting this mix sit for 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the strawberries to release some natural juice.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, whip the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is seamless and luscious. This filling is the rich, tangy heart of your danish, delivering the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries.

Step 4: Cut and Score the Puff Pastry

Unfold each puff pastry sheet and cut along the existing fold lines to create six rectangles per sheet. For each rectangle, score a ¼-inch border around the edges carefully with a small knife—this creates a puffed edge once baked while allowing the center to stay flat for your fillings.

Step 5: Assemble the Danishes

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry rectangle, staying inside the scored border. Then, layer the macerated strawberries on top in a pretty pattern — this not only looks gorgeous but ensures every bite has fresh berry goodness.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches Before Baking

Brush the edges of each pastry with the beaten egg wash to encourage a beautiful golden color. If you like a little sparkle, sprinkle sugar over the edges for extra crunch. If the pastry starts feeling soft or sticky from handling, pop the trays into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up, which helps them puff perfectly during baking.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your assembled pastries for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden and puff up beautifully. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents sogginess and helps the danishes set for glazing.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Warm up the optional strawberry jam and brush it gently over the cooled danishes to add shine and boost fruit flavor. Alternatively, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to drizzle a simple glaze over the pastries. This glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that makes your danishes look bakery-worthy.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a garnish can instantly elevate your Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe. Fresh mint leaves provide a lovely color contrast and fresh aroma. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra glaze adds a sweet sparkle that’s irresistible to the eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

This danish pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness. For a brunch spread, complement it with fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt for a refreshing light touch that contrasts with the rich pastry.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box by serving these danishes on a rustic wooden board, garnished with extra strawberry slices and edible flowers for an Instagram-worthy display. You can also cut them into smaller bite-sized squares, perfect for parties or afternoon tea gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the pastry crisp and the cream cheese fresh, though it’s best enjoyed within the first day for the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the unbaked assembled danishes on a baking sheet at first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual to keep their flaky texture intact.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the danishes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This revives the crispiness of the puff pastry and gently warms the filling without drying it out, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this Danish?

Fresh strawberries are preferred because they hold their shape better and avoid excess moisture. However, if using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent sogginess in the pastry.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You can try mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a milder flavor, but cream cheese provides the iconic tanginess and creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.

Do I have to make the glaze? Can I skip it?

The glaze is optional but highly recommended for added sweetness and that beautiful shiny finish. If you prefer, simply dust the danishes with powdered sugar for a lighter touch.

What if my puff pastry doesn’t puff up properly?

Make sure your puff pastry is cold when baking. If it feels too soft or sticky, chilling it before popping it in the oven helps it puff properly. Also, avoid overloading the filling so the pastry can rise around it.

Can I make these danishes vegan?

To make a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based puff pastry. Replace the egg wash with a mixture of plant-based milk and maple syrup to achieve a golden finish on the puff pastry.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe is truly a delightful way to bring a little indulgence into your everyday life. Easy to make and absolutely stunning to serve, it combines simple ingredients into something spectacularly delicious. I encourage you to try it out, share it with people you love, and savor every flaky, creamy, berry-filled bite.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 83 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Strawberry Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and fresh strawberries, topped with a sweet glaze or strawberry jam. Perfect for brunch or a delightful dessert, these danishes are easy to assemble and bake to golden perfection in just under 40 minutes.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit Filling

• 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 and Topping

• 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water
• 2 – 3 tablespoons sugar for topping, optional
• ¼ cup (60 ml) strawberry jam, optional for topping

Glaze

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare Puff Pastry and Oven: Thaw the puff pastry at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Make Strawberry Mixture: In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Allow this mixture to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes so the strawberries release their juices and the cornstarch can thicken the filling during baking.
3. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
4. Cut Puff Pastry: Unfold one sheet of puff pastry, lay it flat, and cut along the fold lines. Then cut each long rectangle in half to create six smaller rectangles per sheet, giving a total of twelve.
5. Score Puff Pastry Borders: Using a small knife, gently score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle without cutting through the dough. This allows the edges to puff up nicely while keeping the center stable for filling.
6. Assemble Danishes: Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling within the scored border on each puff pastry rectangle. Arrange the strawberry mixture decoratively on top of the cream cheese layer.
7. Brush Edges and Add Sugar: Brush the edges of each pastry piece with the beaten egg wash. Optionally, sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of sugar over the edges to add extra sweetness and crispness during baking.
8. Chill if Needed: If the pastry becomes warm or sticky during assembly, place the sheet in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the pastry maintain its shape and results in better puffing when baked.
9. Bake the Danishes: Bake the prepared danishes in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and puffed. Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Add Final Toppings: Once cooled, spread a thin layer of warmed strawberry jam on top of each Danish for added flavor and shine. Alternatively, drizzle with a glaze made by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to taste.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
• Chilling the pastry if it becomes warm helps achieve the best puff and structure.
• You can customize the topping by either using strawberry jam or a simple powdered sugar glaze as desired.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American