Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe: A Delightful Sweet Treat

When it comes to delicious pastries that combine the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of fruit, a Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is the perfect choice. This homemade Danish is an easy-to-make treat that will wow your family and friends with its flaky, buttery crust, tangy cream cheese filling, and the fresh burst of strawberries. Whether you’re looking for a dessert for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet breakfast treat, this strawberry Danish recipe will hit the spot every time.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making this delicious cream cheese Danish, from the dough to the cream cheese filling, and share some creative variations. We’ll also explore the strawberry health benefits to show how this pastry can be not only a tasty treat but also a healthier option when you use fresh, seasonal strawberries.

What is a Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish?

A Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is a pastry made by filling puff pastry sheets with a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and strawberries, and then baking until golden brown. The result is a sweet, creamy, and flaky treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. The creamy filling balances out the tartness of the strawberries, while the puff pastry provides the perfect buttery, flaky texture.

This recipe combines the traditional Danish food elements of buttery dough with the luscious creaminess of cream cheese and the freshness of strawberries, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you make it from scratch or use puff pastry sheets for convenience, this strawberry cream cheese Danish recipe is easy to follow and incredibly rewarding.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

This simple yet delicious strawberry cream cheese Danish recipe requires a few key ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious pastries:

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a tangy contrast)

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (or leftover strawberries)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten the flavor)

For the Danish Pastry:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional, for serving)

Health Benefits of Strawberries

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the health benefits of strawberries. Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

1. Rich in Vitamin C: Strawberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
2. Antioxidants: These vibrant berries are full of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Fiber: Strawberries are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.
4. Low in Calories: With just 50 calories per cup, strawberries are a healthy addition to any diet, making them a great choice for sweet treats like Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish.

So not only are you indulging in a delightful pastry, but you’re also benefiting from the goodness of fresh strawberries.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

Now that we’ve got the ingredients and the health benefits of strawberries covered, let’s jump into making this delicious Danish from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields beautiful results.

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

Start by preparing the strawberry filling.

1. Dice the Strawberries: Wash and dice the fresh strawberries into small pieces. If you’re using leftover strawberries, make sure they are chopped into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly in the filling.
2. Cook the Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices.
3. Thicken the Filling: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the strawberry mixture and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens.
4. Cool the Filling: Remove the strawberry filling from the heat and set it aside to cool to room temperature. This will prevent the filling from making the puff pastry soggy when assembling the Danish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Next, prepare the cream cheese filling.

1. Mix the Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or whisk until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using) to the cream cheese mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and the filling is smooth.
3. Set Aside: Set the cream cheese mixture aside for later assembly.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Now it’s time to prepare the puff pastry. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry sheets, this step is a breeze. If you’re using homemade puff pastry, you’ll want to ensure it’s chilled and ready to roll out.

1. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: If using store-bought puff pastry sheets, unfold them on a clean surface. Roll the pastry slightly to smooth it out and make it slightly thinner. If needed, you can trim the edges to form even squares or rectangles.
2. Cut the Pastry: Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the puff pastry into squares, approximately 3 inches by 3 inches, or into rectangular shapes based on your preferred serving size.

Step 4: Assemble the Danish

Once the fillings and pastry are ready, it’s time to assemble your Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish.

1. Add Cream Cheese Filling: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry square. Spread it out slightly but leave space around the edges for folding.
2. Top with Strawberry Filling: Add a spoonful of the cooled strawberry filling on top of the cream cheese layer. Be careful not to overfill the pastries to avoid spilling during baking.
3. Fold the Pastry: Carefully fold the corners of the puff pastry toward the center, creating a slight pocket. You can leave the center open for a more rustic look, or fully seal the edges if you prefer.
4. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the folded pastry with the beaten egg to give the Danish a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 5: Bake the Danish

Now that your homemade Danish is assembled, it’s time to bake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pastries from sticking.
2. Bake: Place the assembled pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for 18-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp.
3. Cool: Once the Danish are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is cooled, dust the pastries with a little powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Serve them warm for breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or even as a dessert.

Variations of the Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

While strawberry cream cheese Danish is a classic, you can experiment with different variations and flavors. Here are a few ideas:

1. Mixed Berry Cream Cheese Danish

Swap out the strawberries for a mixture of berries like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a fruity twist. The tangy mix of berries pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.

2. Peach Cream Cheese Danish

Instead of strawberries, use fresh peaches for a summery variation. Slice the peaches thinly and cook them with sugar and cornstarch to create a sweet and juicy filling.

3. Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish

For a richer treat, drizzle some melted chocolate over the baked Danish after they’ve cooled. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the cheese.

4. Almond Cream Cheese Danish

Add some finely chopped almonds to the cream cheese filling for added texture and a nutty flavor. You can also sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the Danish before baking for an extra crunch.

5. Cinnamon Sugar Danish

For a twist on the classic Danish, add cinnamon sugar to the puff pastry before filling it with the cream cheese mixture. The cinnamon complements the creamy cheese and fruit, creating a warm, comforting flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish

1. Use Cold Puff Pastry: Cold puff pastry is essential for achieving that perfect flaky texture. If your puff pastry has warmed up during preparation, place it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.
2. Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the pastries, as the filling can spill out during baking, making a mess. A spoonful of each filling is usually enough.
3. Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, but if they’re out of season, you can substitute frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
4. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to get that crisp texture back.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry that combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, all enveloped in a crispy, buttery puff pastry. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this homemade Danish is sure to impress.

By using fresh, seasonal strawberries, you not only create a beautiful dessert but also enjoy the strawberry health benefits like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can bake up a batch of these delicious cream cheese Danish pastries that will be the star of any meal.

So gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of making this delicious, homemade treat. The end result will be a sweet, creamy, and flaky indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion.