Name: Sweet Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-491809H43M51S
Total time: PT-491809H43M51S
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; 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk

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 (for glaze)

½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Thaw the puff pastry sheets at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Toss well until all strawberries are coated. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Step 3: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.

Step 4: Unfold one puff pastry sheet into a square. Cut along the folded lines to create six smaller rectangles by cutting each long rectangle in half. Using a small knife, gently score a ¼ inch border inside each rectangle, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 5: Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each rectangle, staying within the scored border. Layer the strawberries decoratively on top of the cream cheese.

Step 6: Lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash. Sprinkle the tops of the danishes with sugar, if desired.

Step 7: If the puff pastry feels warm or sticky, chill the prepared danishes on the baking sheet in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to help them puff better during baking.

Step 8: Bake the danishes for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn a light golden brown color.

Step 9: Let the danishes cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Warm the strawberry jam slightly and brush over the cooled danishes, then dust with powdered sugar. Alternatively, prepare a vanilla glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, and drizzle over the danishes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, mix a splash of lemon juice into the strawberry filling before assembling.

Use frozen puff pastry sheets for convenience, just allow enough time for proper thawing.

Try swapping strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different fruit variation.

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar in the cream cheese filling or glaze.

Storage

Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain flakiness before serving. These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen before baking; thaw completely before assembling and baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the danishes up to the assembly step and then refrigerate for a few hours before baking. For best results, bake them fresh from the fridge to ensure a crisp, flaky texture.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

For a different flavor or dairy-free option, you can use mascarpone cheese or a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind that texture and taste will vary slightly.