Strawberry Danish
Flaky and buttery Danish pastry filled with smooth cream cheese and fresh strawberries, topped with strawberry jam or vanilla glaze for a delightful breakfast or dessert.
Equipment
- 2 large baking sheets
- 2 sheets parchment paper
- 3 Mixing bowls
- 1 knife
- 1 pastry brush optional
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese room temperature
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 puff pastry sheets thawed
- 1 large egg lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water
- 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar for topping optional
- ¼ cup strawberry jam optional for topping
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Thaw puff pastry sheets at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes and preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Unfold one puff pastry sheet and cut along fold lines into six smaller rectangles.
- Score a ¼-inch border inside the edges of each rectangle without cutting through the dough.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling inside the border of each rectangle.
- Arrange fresh strawberries decoratively over the cream cheese filling.
- Brush the edges with egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top if desired.
- Chill the prepared danishes in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes if the dough is warm, to help puff pastry rise better.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow danishes to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- Top with warmed strawberry jam or drizzle vanilla glaze made by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
- Enjoy at room temperature or warm in toaster oven for best flavor.
- Variations include making without cream cheese or creating braided danishes.