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Flaky Strawberry Danish pastries bring a bakery-worthy treat right to your home kitchen thanks to convenient puff pastry and a luscious cream cheese filling. The combination of tangy cheese and juicy strawberries wrapped in crisp pastry is a guaranteed hit whether you are serving these for a celebratory brunch or enjoying a well-earned sweet break. This recipe is so simple you will want to keep the ingredients on hand for surprise weekend treats.
I first made these Strawberry Danishes for a Mother’s Day brunch and they disappeared in seconds My family now expects them for every special breakfast and I do not mind because they are so straightforward to bake
Ingredients
- Puff pastry sheets: Opt for a quality brand with real butter if possible for flaky melt in the mouth results
- Fresh strawberries: Choose berries that are bright red and fragrant for maximum sweetness and flavor
- Cream cheese: Full fat cream cheese yields the creamiest rich filling
- Granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cheese and highlights the berries natural sweetness
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm aroma and depth to the filling look for pure vanilla extract for best flavor
- Egg: Used for the golden shiny finish a farm fresh egg always adds color and gloss to the pastry tops
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and place parchment paper onto your baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning
- Shape the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out cold but thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface Cut into four inch squares working quickly so the pastry stays cold which leads to crisp layers
- Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Combine softened cream cheese granulated sugar and vanilla in a bowl Beat until completely smooth which ensures your filling stays creamy and does not leak during baking
- Assemble the Danishes:
- Spoon a generous mound of filling onto the center of each pastry square Layer several slices of fresh strawberries on top spreading evenly for bursts of flavor in every bite
- Fold and Seal the Pastries:
- Bring each corner up over the filling and pinch together at the center to seal This step helps trap all the creamy filling inside as your Danishes bake
- Apply the Egg Wash:
- Beat one egg and lightly brush over the top of each prepared Danish This gives your pastries a classic golden glossy finish once baked
- Bake Until Perfect:
- Place the tray in the center rack and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes Watch closely for deep golden color and puffed up corners Remove and let cool slightly before serving
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Fresh strawberries are my favorite part They taste like early summer and their sweetness mixed with warm pastry always reminds me of family brunches with my mom When we make these together the kitchen smells like comfort and celebration
Storage tips
Let any leftovers cool completely before storing To maintain crispness keep Danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day or in the refrigerator for up to three days For longer storage freeze the pastries on a tray until solid then transfer to a zip top bag and freeze for up to two months Warm them in the oven to refresh before serving
Ingredient substitutions
No strawberries on hand Try blueberries raspberries or even sliced peaches for a seasonal twist If you need a sweeter touch add a bit more sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese filling For a tangier filling use a combo of cream cheese and a spoonful of sour cream or thick Greek yogurt
Serving suggestions
Strawberry Danishes are perfect as part of a brunch buffet alongside a big fruit salad and freshly brewed coffee You can also drizzle the cooled pastries with a little lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and juice for extra flavor These make a lovely afternoon tea treat with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of milk
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Cultural context
Danish pastries originated in Denmark and became popular worldwide for their buttery flaky texture The sweet cheese and fruit combo has roots in European baking traditions but the use of ready made puff pastry makes this treat accessible for home bakers everywhere
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the pastry flaky?
Ensure the puff pastry remains cold before baking, and avoid overworking the dough to maintain light layers.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain frozen strawberries well to prevent excess moisture from softening the pastry.
- → Is it possible to prepare these in advance?
Assemble the pastries ahead and store in the fridge. Bake fresh before serving for best texture.
- → What prevents the filling from leaking out?
Pinch the pastry corners securely over the filling and apply an egg wash to help seal the edges.
- → Do these pastries freeze well?
Baked pastries can be frozen and reheated gently in the oven to restore crispness.