Strawberry Danish Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the buttery goodness of puff pastry with a creamy cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any gathering, these easy-to-make danishes are sure to impress. The flaky texture and sweet filling make them a standout choice for brunches or special occasions. Plus, they can be topped with warm strawberry jam or a vanilla glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Deliciously Flaky: The use of frozen puff pastry ensures you get that irresistible flaky texture without the hassle of making pastry from scratch.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your danish with warm strawberry jam or a sweet vanilla glaze to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch gathering or a cozy family dessert, these danishes fit right in.
- Fresh and Fruity: The addition of fresh strawberries brings vibrant flavor and a pop of color to your pastries.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the Strawberry Danish Recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make baking more enjoyable and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Small pairing knife
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: Essential for even baking of your danishes, ensuring they turn golden brown.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Small pairing knife: Useful for scoring the puff pastry effectively, allowing it to rise beautifully.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 4 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature
– ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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
– 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk
How to Make Strawberry Danish Recipe
Step 1: Thaw Puff Pastry and Preheat Oven
Make sure to pull the puff pastry to thaw at room temperature for about 30 – 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Strawberries
Add the cleaned and sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch to a mixing bowl. Mix all the ingredients to ensure all the strawberries are well coated. Allow the berries to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Step 3: Make Cream Cheese Filling
In another mixing bowl, mix the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined. Adjust flavor as needed by tasting.
Step 4: Cut Puff Pastry
Unfold one sheet of puff pastry into a square. Cut along folded lines into long rectangles, then cut each rectangle in half to form six smaller rectangles total. Score gently into the dough about ¼ inch from the edges using a small pairing knife.
Step 5: Assemble Danishes
Spoon one tablespoon (15 ml) of cream cheese filling into the center of each rectangle within the borders. Decoratively layer fresh strawberries on top. Lightly brush edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar if desired.
Step 6: Chill & Bake
If puff pastry becomes warm or sticky, chill on baking sheet in fridge for about 15 – 20 minutes. Bake strawberry cream cheese danishes for about 20 -25 minutes until light golden brown.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Cool danishes on baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack until at room temperature. Top with warm strawberry jam or drizzle with vanilla glaze made from whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Enjoy!
How to Serve Strawberry Danish Recipe
Serving Strawberry Danish is a delightful experience that enhances its buttery and fruity flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast or dessert.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla for a light, airy topping that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve warm Strawberry Danish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch, making this pastry even more special for dessert lovers.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying your danish with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea enhances the overall experience, balancing sweetness with warmth.
Topped with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with strawberries.
Served on a Breakfast Platter
- Include assorted fruits, yogurt, and pastries on a breakfast platter alongside your Strawberry Danish for a complete morning meal.
How to Perfect Strawberry Danish Recipe
To ensure your Strawberry Danish turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use cold butter: For the flakiest pastry, make sure your puff pastry is cold before baking. This helps create those beautiful layers.
Don’t skip chilling: Chilling the assembled danish before baking allows the pastry to puff up nicely in the oven.
Adjust sweetness: Taste your cream cheese filling before adding it to the pastry. Adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
Layer strawberries carefully: Arrange strawberries artfully on top for an appealing presentation that also highlights freshness.
Watch baking time: Keep an eye on the danishes while baking; they should be golden brown but not overdone.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Danish Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Danish can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Bacon: Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast to the sweet danish.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can complement the strawberry flavor and add variety.
- Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein and richness to round out your meal.
- Granola: Crunchy granola can add texture when served alongside or as a topping for yogurt.
- Smoothie: A berry smoothie makes an excellent drink pairing, matching the fruity theme while being nutritious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Strawberry Danish Recipe can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Overmixing the filling: Mixing the cream cheese too much can lead to a dense filling. Aim for a smooth consistency without overworking it.
- Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the puff pastry after assembling can prevent it from puffing up properly. Always chill for 15-20 minutes before baking.
- Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on the pan can cause sticking and browning issues. Always line your baking sheets with parchment for easy removal.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese will not blend well, leading to lumps. Make sure it’s at room temperature for a creamy filling.
- Ignoring oven temperature: An oven that’s not hot enough can result in soggy pastries. Preheat your oven thoroughly to 400°F (204°C) before baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover strawberry danish in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Danish Recipe
- Wrap each danish tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Strawberry Danish Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, but this may make them soggy.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding the Strawberry Danish Recipe.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries for different flavors.
How do I make the filling sweeter?
Adjust the powdered sugar in the cream cheese filling to suit your taste. Start with small amounts and taste as you go.
Can I prepare these danishes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them and refrigerate before baking. Just remember to chill before baking as directed.
What is the best way to serve these danishes?
They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they also taste great at room temperature with a drizzle of glaze or jam.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Danish Recipe is an easy and versatile treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. You can customize it by adding different fruits or experimenting with toppings like nuts or chocolate drizzle. Try making this delightful pastry today!
Strawberry Danish
Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade Strawberry Danish, a scrumptious pastry that effortlessly combines the flaky goodness of puff pastry with a creamy cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these easy-to-make danishes are sure to be a hit at any gathering. With their golden-brown exteriors and luscious interiors, they can be customized with toppings like warm strawberry jam or a sweet vanilla glaze for an extra touch of indulgence. Perfectly balanced between sweet and fruity, this recipe is not only simple but also versatile enough to impress your guests or brighten up your morning routine.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 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
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk
Instructions
- Thaw puff pastry at room temperature for 30-45 minutes and preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with cornstarch and sugar; let sit for 15 minutes.
- Blend cream cheese until smooth; add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Cut puff pastry into rectangles and score edges gently.
- Place cream cheese filling in the center of each rectangle and layer with strawberries. Brush edges with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar if desired.
- Chill assembled danishes for 15-20 minutes before baking for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool briefly before serving; top with warm strawberry jam or glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
