Strawberry Danish Recipe

Strawberry Danish Recipe is a delightful treat that combines flaky pastry with a sweet cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion, these danishes are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy filling and juicy fruit makes each bite irresistible, ensuring they will be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious pastries in no time.
• Flaky and Buttery Texture: The puff pastry creates a light and airy base that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
• Fresh Fruit Flavor: Using ripe strawberries adds natural sweetness and freshness to every bite.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your danishes with warm strawberry jam or a vanilla glaze to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, a picnic, or dessert, these strawberry danishes shine at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Strawberry Danish Recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even heat distribution while baking your danishes.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing cream cheese and sugar.

Ingredients

Strawberry danish is a buttery and flaky Danish pastry made with frozen puff pastry, a creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries. Top these easy-to-make strawberry cream cheese danishes with warm strawberry jam or a vanilla glaze.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 8 oz. (226 g) cream cheese, room temperature
– ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
– 1 large egg (lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water)
– 2 – 3 tablespoons sugar for topping, optional
– ¼ cup (60 ml) strawberry jam, optional for topping
– 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) milk

How to Make Strawberry Danish Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Make sure to pull the puff pastry to thaw at room temperature for about 30 – 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400 F (204 C). Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

Add the cleaned and sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch to a mixing bowl. Mix all the ingredients to ensure all the strawberries are well coated. Allow the berries to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In another mixing bowl, mix the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the flavor as needed.

Step 4: Shape the Puff Pastry

Unfold one sheet of puff pastry to form a square. Cut the puff pastry along the folded lines. Cut each of the long rectangles in half in the center to form two smaller rectangles of puff pastry. There should be six smaller rectangles total. With a small pairing knife, score or gently cut into the dough but not all the way through a border about ¼ inch from the edges of each puff pastry rectangle.

Step 5: Fill with Cream Cheese and Strawberries

Smooth 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of cream cheese filling into the center of each puff pastry rectangle while staying inside the borders. Decoratively layer fresh strawberries on top of the cream cheese filling. Lightly brush the edges of each puff pastry with lightly beaten egg. Sprinkle sugar on top if desired.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

If the puff pastry has gotten a bit warm or sticky, transfer the baking sheet with prepped strawberry danishes into the fridge to chill for 15 – 20 minutes. Chilling helps allow better puffing during baking.

Step 7: Bake Your Danishes

Bake the strawberry cream cheese danishes for 20 -25 minutes or until they are light golden brown in color.

Step 8: Cool and Top Your Danishes

Cool each strawberry Danish on the hot baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Top each Danish with warm strawberry jam or drizzle them with vanilla glaze made by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Danish!

How to Serve Strawberry Danish Recipe

Strawberry Danish pastries are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a sweet breakfast or a dessert, here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

For Breakfast

• Pair with fresh fruit: Serve alongside a mix of seasonal fruits for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the sweetness of the danish perfectly.

As a Dessert

• Top with warm strawberry jam: Drizzle warm strawberry jam over the danish for an extra fruity flavor boost.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of the ice cream balances the flaky pastry and sweet strawberries.

For Special Occasions

• Serve at brunch gatherings: These danishes make an impressive addition to any brunch spread.
• Present with decorative plating: Arrange on a beautiful platter and garnish with mint leaves for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Strawberry Danish Recipe

Perfecting your Strawberry Danish is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your danishes turn out beautifully every time.

• Use chilled ingredients: Ensure your puff pastry and cream cheese are cold for that perfect flakiness.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the assembled pastries before baking helps achieve maximum puffiness.
• Brush with egg wash: This gives the danish a lovely golden color when baked, making them visually appealing.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like nuts or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
• Serve fresh: For the best taste, enjoy these danishes shortly after baking. They’re at their peak freshness!

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Danish Recipe

Strawberry Danishes pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their sweetness. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt complements the sweetness and adds protein.
2. Crispy Bacon Turkey Strips: These provide a savory contrast to the sweet pastry; opt for turkey as a pork replacement.
3. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the danish.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a crunchy side that pairs well with soft pastries.
5. Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake enhances your breakfast experience alongside these danishes.
6. Smoothies: Blend up a refreshing smoothie made with berries and banana for a nutritious drink option that complements dessert flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Strawberry Danish Recipe can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results.

• Bold choice of strawberries: Using underripe or overripe strawberries can affect both flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh, firm strawberries for the best taste.
• Bold pastry handling: Thawing puff pastry too long can make it sticky and hard to work with. Keep an eye on it and use it as soon as it’s pliable.
• Bold filling measurement: Overfilling the danish with cream cheese or strawberries can cause spills during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for perfect pastries.
• Bold egg wash application: Skipping the egg wash will result in dull-looking pastries. Brush the edges lightly for a beautiful golden finish.
• Bold cooling time: Cutting into the danish too soon after baking can lead to a messy presentation. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Strawberry Danish in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Danish Recipe

• Place cooled danishes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Danish Recipe

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual pieces on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, but this may soften the pastry.
• Bold Stovetop: Reheat in a nonstick skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Strawberry Danish Recipe.

Can I use frozen strawberries in this Strawberry Danish Recipe?

You can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make your pastry soggy.

What is the best way to serve Strawberry Danish?

These danishes are best served warm, topped with either strawberry jam or a vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.

How do I make my own strawberry jam topping?

To make strawberry jam, simply cook down fresh strawberries with sugar until thickened, adding cornstarch if needed for consistency.

Can I customize the filling in my Strawberry Danish Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or even mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.

How do I prevent my puff pastry from becoming soggy?

Ensure that you properly chill the prepared danishes before baking and avoid overfilling them with wet ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Danish Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or toppings based on your preferences. Try making these delightful treats for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—your family and friends will love them!