Name: Strawberry Danish Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
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

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If you’re craving a breakfast or dessert treat that feels like a little slice of heaven, this **Strawberry Danish Recipe** is going to be your new best friend. Buttery, flaky puff pastry layered with a luscious, creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, then crowned with fresh strawberries and a glossy finish of warm strawberry jam or a silky vanilla glaze—each bite is a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that feels both indulgent and refreshingly fruity. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and perfect for impressing family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, making the danish come together with fantastic flavors and textures. From the flaky puff pastry that acts as the golden canvas to the vibrant fresh strawberries that bring a pop of color and tang, each element is simple but essential to this recipe’s magic.

4 cups sliced strawberries: Fresh, ripe berries provide juicy sweetness and beautiful color.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry topping so it doesn’t get soggy.
1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the strawberry tartness with just enough sweetness.
8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature: Creates a rich and creamy base for the filling.
½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without graininess.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatic depth to the filling.
2 puff pastry sheets, thawed: The buttery, flaky structure that makes the danish irresistibly crisp.
1 large egg beaten with 1 teaspoon water: Brushed on edges for a shiny, golden finish.
2 to 3 tablespoons sugar for topping (optional): Sprinkled for extra sparkle and crunch on top.
¼ cup strawberry jam (optional for topping): Warm it to brush over for a glossy, fruity finish.
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet, smooth drizzle.
2-3 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Thins out the glaze to perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Strawberry Danish Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation

Start by letting the puff pastry thaw at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes so it’s pliable but still chilled. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line 1 or 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.

Step 2: Macerate the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch, tossing gently until every berry is coated. Allowing the berries to sit for 15 minutes at room temperature gives them time to release their juices and meld flavors, transforming them into a lovely topping that will thicken nicely when baked.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a clean bowl, whip the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and dreamy. This creamy layer provides a tangy, sweet balance to the fruit and helps anchor the topping on the pastry.

Step 4: Cut and Score the Puff Pastry

Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry, and cut it into six smaller rectangles by slicing along the fold lines and dividing the longer pieces in half. With a small knife, gently score a border about ¼ inch inside the edges, being careful not to cut all the way through. This scoring lets the border puff up gorgeously and creates a perfect frame for the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Danish

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling into the center of each puff pastry rectangle, staying inside the scored border. Arrange the macerated strawberries artfully on top, piling just enough for a fresh burst of flavor without overwhelming the dough. Brush the edges of each danish with the egg wash to ensure they turn that perfect shade of golden brown. If you like, sprinkle with a little sugar for added crunch.

Step 6: Chill and Bake

If your assembled danishes feel warm or sticky, pop the baking sheet in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes. Chilling them before baking encourages maximum puffiness. Then bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the puff pastry is a beautiful light golden brown. Let them rest on the hot pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Add Your Favorite Finish

Warm strawberry jam brushed on top adds a gorgeous shine and an extra layer of fruity sweetness. Alternatively, whip up a vanilla glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until silky smooth, then drizzle generously over the cooled danishes. Both options perfectly complement the flaky pastry and creamy filling.

How to Serve Strawberry Danish Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar, a few fresh strawberry slices, or even a sprinkle of finely chopped mint elevates these danishes visually and enhances their fresh, summery vibes. Don’t underestimate the power of a pretty presentation to make your treat even more inviting!

Side Dishes

These danishes are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a hot cup of coffee, a fresh fruit salad, or a dollop of whipped cream can turn your breakfast or dessert into a mini celebration. They can also accompany brunch dishes like scrambled eggs and smoked salmon for a balanced spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunches or gatherings, consider serving the danishes on a tiered cake stand for a charming touch. You could also create miniature versions by cutting smaller puff pastry pieces, perfect for bite-sized snacks. Another fun twist is to serve them alongside flavored yogurts or creamy custards for a textured experience that guests will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover strawberry danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. They hold up well and maintain much of their fresh, buttery flavor when eaten cold or warmed slightly.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the baked danishes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat the danishes in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make puff pastry soggy instead of crisp and flaky.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe and bring the best flavor and texture. Just make sure they’re ripe and sweet for that natural juiciness.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you want a lighter option, mascarpone cheese or ricotta can work well, though they will alter the texture slightly. Cream cheese provides that signature rich tang that balances the sweetness.

Is puff pastry hard to work with?

Not at all! Puff pastry is incredibly forgiving and easy to handle as long as it’s properly thawed and kept cool. The scoring technique adds professional flair, but if you skip it, the danishes will still taste amazing.

Can I make the Strawberry Danish Recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cream cheese and a vegan puff pastry, and substitute the egg wash with non-dairy milk mixed with a little maple syrup for shining edges. The flavor will still be delightful and just as impressive.

What’s the best way to serve these warm?

Simply warm them in a toaster oven or a hot oven for a few minutes to revive that flaky texture and enjoy while the cream cheese filling and strawberry topping are a little melty and heavenly.

Final Thoughts

This **Strawberry Danish Recipe** is one of those feel-good dishes that combines elegant flavors with wonderfully approachable preparation. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting loved ones, these danishes are bound to put smiles on faces and add a spark of joy to any day. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and bake a batch today, because once you taste these flaky, fruity delights, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.