Description
This Strawberry Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy sweet cream cheese mixture and fresh strawberries, topped with a light egg wash and sugar for added crunch. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, these pastries are easy to make and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare the strawberries: In another small bowl, mix chopped fresh strawberries with lemon juice to enhance flavor and prevent browning. Set aside.
- Prepare the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 4 equal squares.
- Assemble the Danish: Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Top with a spoonful of the lemon-coated strawberries.
- Shape the Danish: Fold the corners of each square toward the center over the filling, leaving some filling visible in the middle.
- Egg wash and topping: Brush the beaten egg over the pastry edges and exposed pastry to give a golden finish. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top for a sweet crunch.
- Bake: Place the prepared Danish pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed for easy handling and best puffing in the oven.
- Do not overfill the pastry to prevent leaking during baking.
- For a glossier finish, you can brush the Danish with additional egg wash before the sugar topping.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for optimal flavor and texture.
- These Danish pastries can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and warmed before serving.
