Strawberry Danish

Category: Treats That Make Everything Better

Super simple puff pastry treats stuffed with cream cheese and fresh strawberries. Great for desserts or quick breakfasts.

Clare Recipes
Updated on Tue, 13 May 2025 09:47:31 GMT
Close view of golden puff pastry squares with fresh berries and icing drizzle. Save
Close view of golden puff pastry squares with fresh berries and icing drizzle. | recipesclare.com

The moment I cracked the code on these strawberry danishes, my mornings were never the same. There's something almost magical about how the buttery, flaky pastry works with the tangy cream cheese and juicy strawberries. Nowadays when I bake them, the smell wafting through my house has everyone rushing to the kitchen.

Flaky Pastry Delight

What I adore about these treats is how they bring together all the best breakfast pastry elements. When you bite in and those layers break apart, showing off the smooth filling dotted with bright strawberries—it just makes you smile. And guess what? They're way simpler to whip up than they look.

Your Shopping List

  • Puff Pastry: Grab it ready-made from the store for an easy shortcut.
  • Cream Cheese: Make sure it's out of the fridge early to get nice and soft.
  • Fresh Strawberries: Pick the ripest ones you can find.
  • Powdered Sugar: This gives just the right amount of sweetness.
  • Cornstarch: My little hack to keep everything from turning mushy.

Starting The Process

We'll start by beating that cream cheese mix till it's completely smooth. Then we'll toss our strawberries with a bit of sugar and cornstarch. Don't skip this part—it's what takes these pastries from good to amazing.

Crafting Your Pastries

Now comes the fun bit. You'll cut your puff pastry into rectangles and score a nice edge around each one. Then spread that velvety cream cheese in the middle. I always take my time placing strawberry slices on top—each danish becomes its own tiny masterpiece.

A stack of two flaky pastry squares filled with cream and topped with sliced strawberries. Save
A stack of two flaky pastry squares filled with cream and topped with sliced strawberries. | recipesclare.com

The Crucial Wait

Don't rush to the oven just yet! Letting them chill in the fridge for 15 minutes is my hidden trick. This short break helps them keep their shape while baking. I usually make coffee during this time and get more and more excited.

Oven Transformation

The real show happens in your hot oven as they puff up into golden treasures. Those edges climb high while the middle sets perfectly. I can't stop peeking through the oven door—watching flat pastry turn into puffy goodness never gets old.

The Finishing Touch

I love adding extra charm while they're still warm by brushing on some strawberry jam for shine. Sometimes I'll wait till they cool and add a vanilla glaze drizzle. On special days, I'll do both because why hold back? These little extras make them totally eye-catching.

Custom Variations

  • Citrus Lover? A zesty lemon glaze really brightens things up.
  • Feeling Fancy? Try weaving the pastry into a braid for a showstopper look.
  • Keep it Simple? They're wonderful with just a spoonful of jam on top.

Serving Suggestions

These taste best straight from the oven with a hot cup of coffee. Sprinkle some powdered sugar on top and they'll look like they came from a fancy shop. When I'm going all out, I'll add a spoonful of fresh whipped cream too.

Two layers of flaky pastry filled with creamy custard and topped with fresh strawberries and shiny fruit glaze. Save
Two layers of flaky pastry filled with creamy custard and topped with fresh strawberries and shiny fruit glaze. | recipesclare.com

Storage Solutions

Should you somehow have extras, they'll stay good in the fridge. Just pop them back in the oven to warm up—don't use the microwave or you'll lose that wonderful crispness. Trust me on this one.

Freezer Friendly

I often make a double batch to freeze for crazy mornings. They thaw out great and after warming in the oven, they're almost as tasty as fresh ones. It's like having your own personal bakery tucked away for emergencies.

Pro Pointers

Always dry your strawberries thoroughly—it takes just a minute but makes a huge difference. Try using an ice cream scoop for even filling portions. And definitely build your danishes directly on the baking sheet—these guys don't travel well before baking.

Fast Facts

  • Make Ahead? You can totally bake them a day early.
  • Fresh vs Frozen? Go for fresh berries if you can get them.
  • Prevent Sogginess? That little bit of cornstarch works wonders.

Pure Breakfast Bliss

I've made these strawberry danishes my signature move for turning ordinary mornings into something special. They work just as well for lazy weekend breakfasts as they do for fancy brunches with company. There's real joy in watching people bite into these warm treats fresh out of your oven.

A stack of flaky pastry topped with fresh sliced strawberries and cream filling. Save
A stack of flaky pastry topped with fresh sliced strawberries and cream filling. | recipesclare.com

Wrap-Up

Flaky pastry pockets with rich cheese and fresh strawberry filling. Perfect for anything from breakfast to dessert indulgence.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare them early?

Assemble them the night before, chill them, and bake them fresh in the morning for the best taste.

→ Why is chilling important?

Cool pastry rises better when baked. If dough gets warm, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.

→ What’s the best way to store extras?

Put them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them a little before eating.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Fresh ones are ideal, as frozen ones can make the pastry soggy with too much juice.

→ What if my pastry tears?

If it cracks, gently warm it up. Use damp fingers to press the edges back together.

Strawberry Danish

Crispy pastry filled with creamy cheese and juicy strawberries, with a touch of jam or sweet glaze.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Total Time
35 min

Category: Sweet Stuff

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: American

Makes: 12 Serves (12 pastries)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 4 cups of strawberries, chopped.
02 1 tablespoon sugar and cornstarch each.
03 8 oz cream cheese, softened.
04 1/2 cup powdered sugar for filling.
05 A teaspoon of vanilla extract.
06 2 sheets of puff pastry, defrosted.
07 1 egg mixed with a teaspoon of water.
08 1/4 cup of strawberry preserves.
09 1 cup powdered sugar, for icing.
10 2-3 tablespoons milk, for glaze.

Steps

Step 01

Toss sliced strawberries with cornstarch and sugar. Whip together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla till creamy.

Step 02

Slice each puff pastry sheet into six rectangles. Make indents around the edges. Spread cream cheese mix and a handful of strawberries in the center of each piece.

Step 03

Coat the edges with egg wash and pop them into the fridge for about 15 minutes.

Step 04

Put in the oven at 400°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes till they're browned beautifully.

Step 05

Let them rest for 5 mins. Drizzle warm jam or sweet vanilla icing on top before serving.

Helpful Notes

  1. Stays fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days.
  2. Tastes best when freshly warmed up.

Required Tools

  • Cookie sheets.
  • Non-stick baking paper.
  • A couple of mixing bowls.

Allergen Info

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and seek medical advice if unsure.
  • Contains dairy.
  • Has eggs.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These are general insights and don’t replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Carbs: 35 g
  • Protein: 5 g