Description
A delightful and easy-to-make Strawberry Danish featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Cut the pastry into 4 equal squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred shape for the Danish.
- Make Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
- Assemble Danish: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving about a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
- Add Strawberries: Top the cream cheese filling with sliced fresh strawberries and sprinkle evenly with granulated sugar to add sweetness and encourage slight caramelization during baking.
- Fold Pastry: Fold the corners of each puff pastry square over the filling to form a sealed square or rectangle. Gently press the edges to seal the pastry and keep the filling inside during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Whisk together the egg and milk in a small bowl. Brush this egg wash along the edges of the pastry to create a shiny, golden finish once baked.
- Bake: Place the prepared pastries on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and Dust: Remove from oven and let the Danish cool for a few minutes. Optionally, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
- Serve: Serve the Strawberry Danish warm to enjoy the flaky pastry and creamy, fruity filling at their best.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Egg wash helps give the pastry a beautiful golden color and glossy finish.
- Optional powdered sugar dust adds sweetness and decorative appeal.
- Puff pastry can be store-bought for convenience or homemade for a richer taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently before serving.
