As I sat down with my morning coffee, the aroma of fresh pastries wafted through my kitchen, instantly elevating my mood. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Cream Cheese Strawberry Danish pastries—a delightful brunch treat that blends homemade goodness with elegance. Each flaky, buttery pastry is filled with creamy, sweetened cream cheese, vibrant strawberry jam, and juicy fresh strawberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up, making it an ideal project for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Imagine presenting these stunning pastries at your next gathering, drawing smiles and compliments from friends and family. Ready to indulge in a taste of homemade bliss? Let’s dive into the details! Why Is Strawberry Danish So Irresistible? Fresh Ingredients: Each bite bursts with vibrant strawberry flavor, thanks to sweet strawberries and strawberry jam. Effortless Elegance: The flaky pastry looks impressive but is super simple to make, making it perfect for brunch gatherings. Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family or friends, everyone loves the irresistible blend of cream cheese and strawberries! Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute in other berries for a delicious twist or drizzle chocolate on top for a decadent flair. For even more strawberry inspiration, check out Soft Strawberry Cheesecake or the refreshing Refreshing Virgin Strawberry. Time-saving Tip: Make the dough ahead and freeze for even easier prep when the mood strikes! Strawberry Danish Ingredients For the Pastry • Homemade Danish Pastry – This flaky base provides both structure and delightful texture; store-bought puff pastry can be a great time-saving alternative. For the Cream Cheese Filling • Full-Fat Cream Cheese (125g/4oz) – Ensures a rich, creamy filling; make sure it’s softened for easy blending. • Granulated White Sugar (1 tablespoon) – Sweetens the filling; feel free to substitute with your favorite sugar alternative. • Milk (2 teaspoons) – Aids in creating a smooth mixture; non-dairy options work just fine! • Lemon Zest (zest of half a small lemon) – Adds a refreshing hint of brightness; optional, but highly recommended for flavor depth. For the Fruity Layer • Strawberry Jam (¼ cup) – Infuses sweetness and fruitiness; consider using homemade or high-quality jam for the best taste. • Fresh Strawberries (12 small) – Provide juicy texture and sweetness; always choose ripe ones for the richest flavor. For Assembly & Finishing Touches • Egg Yolk (1) mixed with water – Used for brushing on top to achieve that beautiful golden finish; skip if you prefer a vegan option. • Demerara Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch; brown sugar can be an excellent substitute. Immerse yourself in the delicious world of these Strawberry Danish pastries that will surely bring joy to your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Danish Step 1: Prepare the Dough Begin by making your homemade Danish pastry dough a day in advance. Mix together flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, then let it rest in the fridge for at least 8 hours. This resting period is essential for achieving that flaky texture that makes the Strawberry Danish so delightful. Step 2: Roll and Cut the Pastry When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle measuring about 12×16 inches. Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 12 squares, or if you prefer smaller pastries, cut into 20 squares. Keep the squares uniform for even baking. Step 3: Prepare the Filling While your pastry squares rest, wash and dice your fresh strawberries into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, milk, and lemon zest using a hand mixer or a spatula until smooth and creamy. This satisfying cream cheese filling will be at the heart of your Strawberry Danish. Step 4: Assemble the Pastries For the assembly, place a teaspoon of strawberry jam in the center of each pastry square, followed by a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture. Top with a few pieces of diced strawberries. Carefully fold the corners of each square over the filling to create a lovely pocket, ensuring all the delicious ingredients are tucked inside. Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash In a small bowl, whisk an egg yolk with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Gently brush this glaze over the tops of each assembled Strawberry Danish. Sprinkle a bit of demerara sugar on top for an extra crunch and beautiful caramelization, enhancing the pastries’ allure as they bake. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the prepared pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced appropriately. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. The aroma of buttery pastry will fill your kitchen, signaling that delicious Strawberry Danishes are on the way. Step 7: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove your Danish pastries from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling period gives the filling a moment to set. Serve your warm Strawberry Danishes as a delightful brunch treat or an afternoon snack, impressing everyone with your homemade baking skills! What to Serve with Easy Cream Cheese Strawberry Danish? Indulging in fresh, flaky pastries opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that elevate your brunch experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the sweetness of the Danish, enhancing the overall freshness of your meal. Silky Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and additional strawberries for a satisfying crunch and a dose of protein, making the perfect balance to your pastries. Crispy Bacon: The savory, salty crunch of bacon creates a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the pastries, adding a savory note to your plate. Rich Coffee: A robust cup of coffee harmonizes beautifully with the buttery pastry, balancing flavors while providing a warm, comforting note to your brunch experience. Earl Grey Tea: With its floral and citrus notes, this tea complements the strawberry Danish’s rich flavors, creating a delightful pairing for tea time. Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted dark chocolate drizzled on top adds a luxurious attitude to your Danishes, turning an everyday treat into an elegant dessert. Ice Cream Scoop: For indulgence, serve warm pastries with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea bring a tangy, chilled element to your meal, perfect for sunny brunch gatherings. Custard Sauce: Drizzling a light custard over the warm Danish adds a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the fruity filling. Tips for the Best Strawberry Danish Resting the Dough: Allow it to relax for at least 8 hours. This ensures the dough is flaky and tender, key to a perfect Strawberry Danish. Avoid Tough Pastry: Handle the dough gently—overworking can develop gluten and result in a tough texture. Use Fresh Fruit: Stick to ripe fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones. Fresh fruit enhances flavor and texture in your pastries. Garnish for Appeal: After baking, garnish with extra fresh strawberries. This adds a beautiful visual and a delicious finish. Easy Freezing: Assemble your Danishes, freeze before baking, and simply add a few extra minutes in the oven when ready to enjoy later. Storage Tips for Strawberry Danish Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked Strawberry Danish within 2 days by keeping them in an airtight container at room temperature; they’re best warm! Fridge: If stored in the refrigerator, consume your Danish pastries within 3-4 days. Warm them in the oven or a microwave for the best taste experience. Freezer: Freeze unbaked Strawberry Danish pastries for up to 2 months. Assemble them, then wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Reheating: For optimal results, reheat baked Strawberry Danish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that lovely flaky texture. Strawberry Danish Variations & Substitutions Customize your Strawberry Danish with delightful twists and flavorful swaps that elevate each bite. Berry Medley: Replace strawberries with a mix of raspberries and blueberries for a deliciously tangy variation. Mixing multiple berries not only enhances the color but brings a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a rich, indulgent touch. The combination of strawberries and melted chocolate creates a heavenly dessert that will impress any chocoholic. Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or hazelnuts to the cream cheese mixture for added texture and a nutty flavor. This variation introduces a delightful crunch, complementing the gooey sweetness perfectly. Spiced Cream Cheese: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or a hint of nutmeg into the cream cheese filling for a warm spice. The warming flavor notes will elevate your pastries and create a cozy brunch experience. Vegan Option: Substitute cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative made from cashews or coconut—delicious and cruelty-free! With the right brand, your vegan Strawberry Danish will still be creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying. Gluten-Free Pastry: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the Danish pastry for a gluten-sensitive audience. Your gluten-free friends will appreciate this delicious option that doesn’t skimp on flakiness or flavor. Minty Freshness: Add freshly chopped mint leaves to the fresh strawberries for a refreshing twist. This brightens the whole experience, providing a unique flavor profile that elevates the classic recipe. Citrus Zing: Mix in some orange zest instead of lemon zest for a vibrant citrus twist that pairs beautifully with strawberries. The lively flavor will brighten your pastries and bring a summer feel to your brunch table. No matter how you decide to tweak this recipe, there’s no wrong way to indulge in a homemade Strawberry Danish! For more strawberry inspiration, make sure to check out the delightful Strawberry Icebox Cake or whip up some tasty Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed treats. Make Ahead Options These Easy Cream Cheese Strawberry Danishes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal prep. You can prepare the Danish pastry dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flaky. Additionally, you can mix the cream cheese filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the dough, assemble the pastries with the prepared filling and strawberry jam, brush with egg wash, and bake until golden. This ensures you’ll have delightful, homemade Strawberry Danishes ready to enjoy with minimal effort, making your brunch gatherings a breeze! Easy Cream Cheese Strawberry Danish Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe strawberries for my Danish? Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and have a fresh green cap. Avoid any with dark spots or bruising, as these indicate overripeness. Aim for strawberries that are sweet-smelling and have a glossy appearance for the best flavor in your pastries. What is the best way to store leftover Strawberry Danishes? The more the merrier! Enjoy your freshly baked Strawberry Danish within 2 days when kept in an airtight container at room temperature for the best taste. If you prefer, they can also be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, but warming them in the oven will help regain that flaky, fresh-baked quality. Can I freeze the Strawberry Danish for later use? Indeed! You can freeze unbaked Strawberry Danish pastries for up to 2 months. Assemble the pastries, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer—just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. What should I do if my pastry dough is too tough? Oh no! If your dough becomes tough, it’s likely due to overworking. Next time, be gentle when mixing and rolling, and ensure you give it enough time to rest. A well-rested dough is key to achieving that perfect flaky texture. If you find yourself in a pinch, you might consider using store-bought puff pastry as an easier alternative. Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions? Very! You can make this recipe vegan by substituting the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, using almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, and skipping the egg wash. If sugar is a concern, feel free to use your favorite sugar alternative for both the filling and the topping. What’s the ideal serving suggestion for my Strawberry Danish? You can’t go wrong with a lovely cup of coffee or tea! These pastries shine at brunch or afternoon tea, so serve them alongside fresh fruit or whipped cream for an indulgent experience that will leave everyone smiling. Delicious Strawberry Danish: A Sweet Breakfast Delight Enjoy delightful Strawberry Danish pastries featuring a flaky crust and cream cheese filling, perfect for brunch. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 8 hours hrsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 8 hours hrs 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 pastriesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: EuropeanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pastry1 batch Homemade Danish Pastry or store-bought puff pastry as an alternativeFor the Cream Cheese Filling125 g Full-Fat Cream Cheese softened1 tablespoon Granulated White Sugar or favorite sugar alternative2 teaspoons Milk non-dairy options work fine1/2 small lemon Lemon Zest optional but recommendedFor the Fruity Layer1/4 cup Strawberry Jam use high-quality or homemade12 small Fresh Strawberries ripe for the best flavorFor Assembly & Finishing Touches1 unit Egg Yolk mixed with water for egg wash1 teaspoon Demerara Sugar or brown sugar as a substitute Equipment Mixing bowlHand MixerRolling Pinsharp knifeovenbaking sheetParchment paperwire rack Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry DanishPrepare the dough by mixing flour, butter, and salt, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle, cut into squares.Wash and dice fresh strawberries. Mix cream cheese, granulated sugar, milk, and lemon zest until smooth.Assemble pastries by placing jam and cream cheese mixture on dough squares and folding corners over the filling.Create an egg wash, brush over pastries, and sprinkle demerara sugar on top.Bake pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.Cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1pastryCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesAllow pastry dough to relax for at least 8 hours for optimal flakiness. Store baked pastries in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
