Strawberry Cream Cheese Danishes
Strawberry Cream Cheese Danishes are a sweet, flaky treat perfect for breakfast or anytime you want a little something special. They combine buttery puff pastry with creamy cream cheese and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Strawberry Cream Cheese Danishes are a sweet, flaky treat perfect for breakfast or anytime you want a little something special. They combine buttery puff pastry with creamy cream cheese and juicy, fresh strawberries, making every bite melt in your mouth. The hint of sweetness from the strawberries pairs beautifully with the smooth cream cheese, all wrapped up in a golden, crisp pastry.
I love how easy these danishes are to make, yet they look like something from a fancy bakery! One of my favorite things is to add just a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top once they’re cool — it makes them look extra pretty and adds a gentle sweetness. Whenever I bring these out, they always disappear fast, which tells me they’re a hit with family and friends.
These danishes are perfect to share with loved ones on a lazy weekend morning or to surprise someone with a thoughtful breakfast in bed. I often serve them with a cup of coffee or tea, and it feels like a little moment of happiness to start the day right. If you like strawberry and cream cheese flavors, I promise you’ll enjoy making and eating these as much as I do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base of the danishes and gives that flaky, golden texture. You can find it in frozen sheets in most grocery stores. If you can’t find puff pastry, croissant dough works well too for a slightly different texture.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest and creamiest filling. Light or whipped varieties can be used but might change the texture a little. Make sure it’s softened to blend smoothly.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and a bit of tartness. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen and thawed berries can work but gently drain excess juice to avoid soggy pastry.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla lifts the flavor of the cream cheese mixture. If you’re out of vanilla, almond extract is a nice alternative but use half the amount, as it’s stronger.
Glaze (Powdered Sugar and Milk): This simple glaze adds a pretty, sweet finish. You can swap milk for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get Perfectly Puffy, Crispy Danishes?
The key to flaky, puffed-up danishes is handling and baking the puff pastry just right:
- Keep the dough cold until ready to use to prevent melting the butter layers.
- When scoring the edges, don’t cut all the way through. This allows the edges to rise around the filling, creating that classic Danish shape.
- Use an egg wash on the edges to encourage golden color and shine.
- Bake on parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking.
- Watch baking time closely—overbaking can dry them out, while underbaking leaves dough soggy inside. Look for deep golden color and puffiness.
Following these tips will help you make danishes with that perfect balance of light, flaky layers and a soft, creamy center topped by fresh, juicy strawberries.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat, sturdy surface for even baking and easy handling.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – to blend cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla smoothly.
- Whisk or fork – for mixing the filling and glaze without lumps.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – perfect for cutting the puff pastry into neat squares.
- Pastry brush – to apply the egg wash for that golden, shiny finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different berry flavor and color.
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a fresh, bright twist.
- Mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup with the cream cheese for extra sweetness and depth.
- Top with chopped nuts like almonds or pecans after baking for a crunchy contrast.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Danishes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pastry and Filling:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (about 8 oz), thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
For The Egg Wash and Glaze:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 to 18 minutes to bake. Include a few extra minutes for cooling and glazing. Overall, you can enjoy these delicious danishes in under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the danishes bake evenly and stops them from sticking.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy to create a delicious filling.
3. Cut and Score the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry and smooth out any creases with a rolling pin. Cut the pastry into six equal squares. Then, using a knife or fork, gently score a smaller square inside each pastry piece about half an inch from the edge — don’t cut all the way through. This will help the edges puff up around the filling during baking.
4. Add Filling and Strawberries:
Spread about one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square, inside the scored border. Then, place sliced strawberries evenly on top of the cream cheese layer.
5. Brush with Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of each square with the egg wash. This will give your danishes a beautiful golden color when baked.
6. Bake the Danishes:
Place the danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
7. Make the Glaze and Serve:
While the danishes bake, mix powdered sugar with one tablespoon of milk or cream to make a smooth glaze. Add more milk if needed to get a pourable consistency. When the danishes are done, let them cool for about five minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess juice to prevent the pastry from getting soggy.
How Should I Store Leftover Danishes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the pastry crisp.
Can I Make These Danishes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the danishes, then refrigerate them uncovered for up to 4 hours before baking. This helps maintain the flakiness during baking.
What Can I Substitute for Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, croissant dough is a great alternative that will give a slightly softer, buttery texture. Just adjust baking time as needed.
