Name: Strawberry Danish Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Frozen sheet puff pastry (thawed slightly); 4 oz Cream cheese (room temperature); 3 TBSP White granulated sugar; 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract; 2 cups Strawberries (washed, dried, cut into thin slices); 1/2 TBSP Cornstarch; 1/2 TBSP White granulated sugar; 1 Large egg; 2 tsp Water; 1/2 cup Powdered sugar (sifted); Zest half a lemon; 2-3 tsp Lemon juice

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If you love a flaky, buttery pastry crowned with fresh, vibrant fruit, you are going to adore this Strawberry Danish Recipe. This delightful treat combines the creamy richness of vanilla-infused cream cheese with the juicy sweetness of freshly sliced strawberries, all nestled on pillowy layers of golden puff pastry. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert, this recipe is a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three steps of making a puff pastry snack on a baking tray with a white marbled texture background. The first step is a rectangular piece of flaky, pale yellow dough dusted with white flour, with a smaller rectangle lightly scored inside the edges. In the second step, a thick layer of creamy white cheese spread with a smooth and slightly textured surface is evenly spread inside the smaller rectangle on the dough. The last step presents the same dough rectangle topped with a layer of fresh, bright red sliced strawberries, arranged to cover the cheese spread fully. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple but quality ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance in this Strawberry Danish Recipe. Each component plays a distinct role, from the flakiness of the puff pastry to the tangy kick of lemon in the icing, creating a harmonious and satisfying bite.

Frozen sheet puff pastry (thawed slightly): Gives you those iconic, flaky layers with minimal effort.
Cream cheese (room temperature): Provides a rich and creamy base that complements the sweetness of strawberries.
White granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese and strawberry mixture perfectly without overpowering.
Pure vanilla extract: Adds warm, sweet undertones that elevate the cream cheese filling.
Strawberries (washed, dried, cut into thin slices): Fresh berries bring juiciness, bright color, and natural sweetness.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry topping, preventing sogginess in the pastry.
Large egg: Used in the egg wash, it gives the pastry a glossy, golden finish.
Water: Mixed with the egg for the perfect wash consistency.
Powdered sugar (sifted): Forms the base of the smooth, sweet lemon glaze.
Lemon zest and juice: Bring a bright, citrusy contrast that cuts through the richness and enhances freshness.

How to Make Strawberry Danish Recipe

Step 1: Thaw the Puff Pastry

Start by removing the frozen puff pastry sheet from the freezer and letting it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes. It should be pliable but still cold to the touch, which ensures it layers just right when baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

While the pastry is thawing, beat the cream cheese on high with a hand mixer for a full minute to get it smooth and fluffy. Add in 3 tablespoons of sugar and continue beating to combine. Fold in the vanilla extract to infuse the filling with its sweet aroma.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries

Wash, dry, and thinly slice the strawberries. Toss them in a bowl with the cornstarch and half a tablespoon of sugar to lightly coat and thicken the fruit’s natural juices while baking. This step helps maintain the pastry’s crisp texture.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed pastry just enough to blend any seams. Use a pizza cutter to slice it in half, then cut each half into thirds, giving you six rectangular pieces. Transfer these to a baking sheet lined with non-stick spray or parchment.

Step 5: Assemble the Danish

Score a 1/4 inch border around each rectangle using a sharp knife — this border will puff up nicely during baking. Spoon about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle and spread it within the border. Layer the prepared strawberries on top, making sure the cream cheese peeks through at the edges for that perfect balance.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Combine the egg and water to make an egg wash, then brush it generously around the edges of each pastry. This helps the borders gain a gorgeous golden color and shine. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare and Drizzle Lemon Icing

Mix the sifted powdered sugar with lemon zest and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. The icing should be thick enough to sit on top without melting into the Danish immediately. Drizzle this bright, tangy glaze over the warm pastries just before serving to add an extra zing that perfectly complements the strawberries.

How to Serve Strawberry Danish Recipe

Three square pastries with golden, flaky layers form the base, each having a visible layered texture and slightly raised edges. Inside each pastry, there is a white creamy layer topped with bright red sliced strawberries arranged neatly. A light drizzle of white icing runs along the sides of the pastries, adding a glossy texture, while a dusting of powdered sugar sits lightly on top, enhancing their freshness. Behind the pastries, there are two whole red strawberries with green leaves on a white marbled surface. The whole scene has a warm, close-up focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect presentation, sprinkle a few fresh strawberry slices or a tiny bit of lemon zest on top after drizzling the lemon icing. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a charming snowy look that’s as lovely as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

This Danish pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of orange juice for a brunch setting. You might also serve it alongside homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re looking to treat yourself during dessert time.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these Danish pastries on a rustic wooden board or a delicate cake stand to make your spread inviting and elegant. You can also cut the Danish into smaller bite-sized squares for a party platter, making it easy for guests to sample without needing utensils.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This will help maintain the pastry’s crispness and prevent the cream cheese filling from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked assembled Danish squares by placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transferring them to an airtight container for up to a month. When ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the Danish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the puff pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are preferred for their bright flavor and texture, just be sure they are well dried and sliced thinly to prevent excess moisture from making the pastry soggy.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You might try mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different but delicious creamy texture, though cream cheese gives the best balance of sweetness and tang for a classic Danish flavor.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the puff pastry with a gluten-free version available in many stores, you can enjoy a gluten-free Strawberry Danish. Just ensure your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

How do I prevent the Danish from becoming soggy?

The key is mixing the strawberries with cornstarch and sugar before topping the pastry, which thickens the juices as they bake. Also, scoring and puffing the border creates a barrier to keep the filling contained.

Can I make mini Strawberry Danishes?

Definitely! Simply cut smaller rectangles and adjust baking time slightly, keeping an eye out to prevent overbaking. Mini Danishes are perfect for parties and easy sharing.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Danish Recipe is a wonderful way to bring smiles to your table, offering a gorgeous combination of flaky pastry, luscious cream cheese, and fresh berries all tied together with a zingy lemon glaze. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed at how approachable and rewarding it is to make from scratch!