There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked Strawberry Cream Danish wafting through your kitchen. This delightful pastry combines buttery, flaky layers with sweet cream filling and juicy strawberries for a treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply craving something special with your morning coffee, this homemade danish delivers bakery-quality results without the bakery price tag.
While traditional danish pastry might seem intimidating, this recipe streamlines the process for home bakers while maintaining that authentic taste and texture we all love. In just 45 minutes, you’ll create a breakfast or dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This
- Uses convenient puff pastry sheets instead of making dough from scratch, saving hours of preparation time
- Perfectly balanced flavors with tangy cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and buttery pastry
- Impressive presentation that looks like it came from a professional bakery
- Versatile recipe that works for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or afternoon tea
- Can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh when needed
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, at room temperature
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries, sliced for topping
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the frothy yeast mixture with milk, egg, sugar, salt, and half the flour until smooth. Gradually add the remaining flour and mix until a dough forms.
- Work the cold butter into the dough, then fold and turn the dough several times to create layers. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into heart shapes using a cookie cutter or by hand.
- Place the heart-shaped dough pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise in a warm place until slightly puffy, about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. You can either stir in chopped strawberries at this point or save them for topping after baking (for a whiter filling).
- Spoon a small amount of the strawberry cream filling into the center of each heart-shaped dough piece. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the danishes are golden brown.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Allow the danishes to cool slightly, then drizzle with the glaze if using. Top with fresh strawberry slices if you didn’t mix them into the filling earlier.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Substitute other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry combination.
- For a time-saving hack, use canned pie filling instead of fresh strawberries.
- Make sure your puff pastry is cold but pliable; if it gets too warm, return it to the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- For a more rustic look, fold the corners of each square partially over the filling to create a partial envelope.
- Add a sprinkle of sliced almonds before baking for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Strawberry Cream Danishes are perfect served slightly warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of fresh berries. For an extra special brunch presentation, pair them with a bowl of vanilla yogurt topped with granola and a pitcher of mimosas or a pot of freshly brewed coffee.
If serving as dessert, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream alongside for an elevated treat that will impress any guest.
Notes
- Store leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat refrigerated danishes in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.
- The pastries are done when the edges are deeply golden and the bottom is crisp.
- If the edges are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil for the remaining bake time.
FAQs
Can I make these danishes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the danishes up to the point of baking, then refrigerate overnight. Add 3-5 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I freeze these danishes?
Absolutely. Freeze unbaked danishes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 7-10 minutes to the baking time.
My puff pastry cracked when unfolding. What should I do?
If your puff pastry cracks, simply press it back together with your fingers. A little water on the crack can help seal it.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them thoroughly first to prevent excess moisture from making your pastry soggy.
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