© Original Recipe By The Sizzle Spot ©
🥐🍓 Flaky Strawberry Danish and Cream Cheese Pastry | Perfect for Brunch & Dessert 🍓🥐
1. Introduction
Imagine biting into a warm, flaky pastry bursting with ripe strawberry filling and velvety cream cheese. This Strawberry Danish recipe is a delightful treat that combines crisp, golden layers with luscious fruity sweetness. Whether for a special brunch or an indulgent afternoon snack, this pastry elevates your baking game with its irresistible texture and flavor. Learning how to craft this easy strawberry dessert at home means you get fresh, homemade goodness without the fuss — and it’s guaranteed to impress!
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 40 minutes: Quick and easy, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- One-pan pleasures: Uses store-bought puff pastry for minimal prep and maximum flavor.
- Versatile: Ideal for brunch, dessert, or a sweet snack any time of day.
- Impressive presentation: Looks bakery-fresh with a golden, flaky crust and vibrant strawberry topping.
3. Ingredient Notes
The key to a stunning Strawberry Danish lies in selecting high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh, plump strawberries for the best sweetness and juiciness. When choosing cream cheese, try to get a full-fat version to achieve that rich, luscious filling that balances perfectly with the tart fruit. Use high-quality Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer if you’re looking to bake using alternative methods or speed up the process. For the crust, store-bought puff pastry offers a crisp, flaky base, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pastry can elevate this brunch recipe.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To create this delicious pastry with ease, having the right tools is essential. A KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer is perfect for mixing the cream cheese filling smoothly. A silicone pastry brush (Deluxe 33-Piece Silicone Utensil Set) helps brush the egg wash for that glossy, golden finish. Don’t forget a sharp knife for slicing and a baking sheet that ensures even heat distribution. For storage, consider an airtight container like the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set.
5. How to Make Flaky Strawberry Danish and Cream Cheese Pastry
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In your stand mixer, blend softened cream cheese with a bit of sugar and vanilla until smooth. The filling should be creamy, with no lumps—this will give your Danish that luscious texture. Chill it while you prepare the pastry.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Thaw your puff pastry according to package instructions. Roll it out gently on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12×8 inches. It should be even and thin, allowing for nice, flaky layers when baked.
Step 3: Assemble the Danish
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the center of the pastry, leaving a strip around the edges. Arrange sliced strawberries atop the filling, distributing evenly. Carefully fold the edges over or leave open for a rustic look.
Step 4: Egg Wash & Baking
Brush the exposed pastry with an egg wash made from beaten egg and a touch of water using your silicone pastry brush. This step ensures a shiny, golden surface. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry puffs up and turns crispy and golden.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Let the Danish cool slightly before serving. Optionally, drizzle with a glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar for extra sweetness. The result? A flaky, aromatic pastry with juicy strawberries and creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
6. Expert Tips for Success
Always chill your cream cheese and puff pastry for better handling. When folding the pastry, don’t overwork it to keep those beautiful flaky layers intact. Slightly underbaking can prevent the pastry from becoming soggy, especially if you’re adding fresh juice from strawberries. For a more indulgent touch, swirl some berry jam into the cream cheese filling before baking.
7. Variations & Substitutions
- Use mixed berries: Blueberries or raspberries can substitute or complement strawberries for a colorful variation.
- Vegan version: Swap cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use plant-based puff pastry for an equally delightful treat.
- Low-sugar option: Reduce added sugar in the filling and toppings for a healthier version while maintaining flavor.
8. Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive that crispy texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, which can make the pastry soggy.
9. FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries for this pastry?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent sogginess in your Danish.
How do I keep the pastry crispy?
Ensure you bake at the right temperature, avoid overfilling with moisture-rich fruit, and reheat in a hot oven to crisp up the layers.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble and bake just before serving for maximum crispness. However, you can prepare the filling and cut pastry in advance and assemble just before baking.
10. Conclusion
This Flaky Strawberry Danish and Cream Cheese Pastry is a show-stopper that combines buttery, flaky layers with luscious fruit filling. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a sweet treat, it’s simple enough to make at home and impressive enough to serve guests. With just a few high-quality ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy a bakery-quality pastry right from your kitchen. Happy baking!
Print
Flaky Strawberry Danish and Cream Cheese Pastry
A flaky, sweet pastry filled with smooth cream cheese and fresh strawberries, baked to golden perfection and ideal for brunch or dessert.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth out creases.
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Fold the edges of the pastry inward to form a border or leave it open for a free-form style.
- Brush the exposed edges with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for variation.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy spreading.
- For a glossy finish, brush with additional egg wash before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Baking, Pastry
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg