Name: Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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

If you love the idea of combining flaky, buttery pastry with luscious cream cheese and juicy fresh strawberries, then let me introduce you to the magic of the Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe. This delightful treat is a perfect balance of tender puff pastry, creamy sweetness, and the fresh burst of strawberries that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests at brunch or craving a special weekend indulgence, this recipe has a way of making ordinary mornings feel extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with bright red sliced strawberries at the center, surrounded by six smaller white bowls with different baking ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. At the top left, a bowl holds white powdered sugar. To its right is a square piece of softened butter in foil wrap, next to a small glass cup with light brown vanilla extract. At the bottom left, there is an unopened block of puff pastry wrapped in paper, and to its right, a small bowl with a light brown egg and another small bowl with white powder, possibly flour or cornstarch. The whole setup is neatly arranged in a circular form against the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role in creating that irresistible texture and flavor — from the buttery crispiness of the puff pastry to the smooth, sweet richness of the cream cheese filling, all crowned by vibrant strawberries.

4 cups sliced strawberries: Fresh and juicy, these give the danish its bright fruity zing.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry topping so it’s perfectly luscious, not runny.
1 tablespoon sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the strawberries.
8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature: The creamy, dreamy base of the filling that contrasts beautifully with the berries.
½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese filling perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cream cheese and glaze.
2 puff pastry sheets, thawed: The golden, flaky layers that make this dessert delightfully crisp and airy.
1 large egg (lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water): Gives the pastry a beautiful golden shine and helps seal the edges.
2 – 3 tablespoons sugar for topping (optional): Adds extra sparkle and a touch of crunch to the finished danishes.
¼ cup strawberry jam (optional for topping): A warm glaze that enhances the berry flavor and adds glossy appeal.
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): The base sweetener for the vanilla glaze drizzled on top.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Infuses the glaze with subtle aromatic notes.
2 – 3 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Thins the glaze to a perfect drizzle-able consistency.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Puff Pastry

Start by slicing your strawberries and ensuring your puff pastry sheets are thawed properly at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes. This prevents tearing when you cut and allows the pastry to puff up just right during baking. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for perfect baking results.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Toss everything together to make sure the strawberries are fully coated. Let them sit for 15 minutes at room temperature so the flavors marry and the natural juices mingle with the sugar and cornstarch to create a lovely glaze.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Whip the room temperature cream cheese in another bowl until smooth and fluffy. Gradually blend in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Taste your cream cheese filling and adjust sweetness or vanilla according to your preference – this creamy layer is the heart of your danish and deserves special attention.

Step 4: Cut and Score the Puff Pastry

Unfold one puff pastry sheet and cut along the fold lines to create six smaller rectangles. Using a paring knife, lightly score a border about ¼ inch inside the edges on each rectangle. Careful not to cut all the way through, this scoring will help create a raised edge during baking, framing your filling beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Danish

Spoon approximately one tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry rectangle, staying within the scored borders. Layer the fresh strawberry mixture decoratively on top. Lightly brush the pastry edges with the beaten egg wash to give a shiny golden finish. Optionally, sprinkle sugar over everything for a sparkling crust.

Step 6: Chill and Bake

If your puff pastry feels warm or sticky, pop the tray into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up. This step helps the pastry rise beautifully in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the danishes are puffed and golden, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Allow the danishes to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to reach room temperature. For an extra touch, warm strawberry jam slightly and brush it over each danish for a shiny glaze. Alternatively, whisk powdered sugar with vanilla and milk to create a luscious vanilla glaze to drizzle on top before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

The image shows nine rectangular pastries arranged in three rows of three on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. Each pastry has a golden-brown crust with a slightly puffed, flaky texture. Inside the crust, there is a creamy white layer, topped with a bright red layer of fresh sliced strawberries mixed with a shiny glaze. The strawberries are spread unevenly on each pastry, giving a fresh and juicy look to the dessert photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation of your Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe beautifully. The green pop of mint contrasts wonderfully with the red strawberries and golden pastry, creating a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.

Side Dishes

Pair your strawberry danish with a cup of rich coffee or a bright herbal tea for an elegant brunch. Fresh fruit salad or lightly whipped cream can also complement the sweet and creamy pastries perfectly, turning a simple dish into a truly memorable spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your danish the star of a dessert board featuring other pastries, fresh berries, and nuts. You can also transform leftovers into delightful French toast or sandwich the filling between croissants for a new twist. Whichever way you serve it, the Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe always shines.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover danishes keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Storing them properly helps preserve the delicate texture of the puff pastry and the freshness of the cream cheese filling.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked assembled danishes by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time slightly. This makes for a fantastic make-ahead option that’s ready whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat your danishes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes to refresh the crispiness of the puff pastry and warm the filling. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries in this Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe?

While fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh are out of season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing to avoid excess moisture that might sog the pastry.

Is there a substitute for puff pastry?

While puff pastry gives that iconic flaky texture, you can try using croissant dough or homemade pastry dough if you’re adventurous. Keep in mind the baking time and texture might vary.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the filling up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature before assembling for easier spreading.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?

Scoring a border on the pastry helps create a raised edge that holds the filling without leaking. Also, chilling the assembled danishes before baking helps keep the layers separated and crisp.

What can I do if my danishes brown too quickly?

If you notice excessive browning, reduce the oven temperature slightly or cover loosely with foil halfway through baking to protect the surface while allowing the danishes to finish cooking.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe is one of those special treats that blends simplicity and elegance so effortlessly. Each bite is a magical combination of flaky pastry, sweet cream cheese, and luscious strawberries that will brighten any morning. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy a piece of pure joy straight from your kitchen!