There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, flaky pastry straight from the oven. The delicate layers of golden puff pastry, the rich and creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, and the burst of fresh strawberries come together to create the ultimate Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish.
Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee, hosting a brunch, or simply craving a bakery-style pastry at home, this recipe is the perfect way to treat yourself without leaving the house. And the best part? It’s easier to make than you think!
With store-bought puff pastry, a simple cream cheese filling, and a fresh strawberry topping, you’ll have a delicious homemade Danish pastry in no time. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
✔ Flaky, Buttery, and Sweet – A perfect balance of textures with just the right amount of sweetness.
✔ Easy to Make at Home – No need to knead dough or wait for it to rise—puff pastry does the work for you.
✔ Customizable – Use different fruits, glazes, or even chocolate drizzles to create your own version.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these pastries fit the moment.
Once you try this Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish recipe, you’ll never look at store-bought pastries the same way again!
What Is a Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish?
A Danish pastry is a light, flaky, layered pastry that originated in Denmark and has since become a bakery favorite around the world. This version combines:
🍓 A fresh strawberry topping – Sweet, juicy, and naturally thickened.
🧀 A creamy, tangy cream cheese filling – Just like the center of a cheesecake, but lighter.
🥐 Crispy, golden puff pastry – The perfect buttery, flaky base that makes each bite irresistible.
Unlike croissants, which require hours of rolling and folding, this Danish uses puff pastry, making it quick and easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
The Secret to a Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
Want to make sure your Danish turns out flaky, creamy, and picture-perfect? Here are a few pro tips:
- Use high-quality puff pastry – Butter-based puff pastry yields the flakiest results.
- Avoid overloading the pastry with filling – Too much can cause leaks while baking.
- Chill before baking – This helps the pastry hold its shape and rise properly.
- Use an egg wash – Brushing a beaten egg mixed with water over the edges creates a golden brown, bakery-style crust.
Now that you know the secrets, let’s gather your ingredients!
Ingredients for Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these bakery-style Danish pastries at home.
Strawberry Filling Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Fresh strawberries (sliced) | 4 cups | The star of the filling |
Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | Thickens the strawberry mixture |
Granulated sugar | 1 tbsp | Enhances the natural sweetness |
Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Cream cheese (room temperature) | 8 oz | Creates a creamy, tangy filling |
Powdered sugar | ½ cup | Adds sweetness |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances the flavor |
Danish Pastry Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Puff pastry sheets (thawed) | 2 | Forms the buttery, flaky layers |
Large egg + water | 1 egg + 1 tsp water | Used as an egg wash for a golden crust |
Granulated sugar | 2-3 tbsp | Adds a touch of sweetness on top |
Toppings Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Strawberry jam (optional) | ¼ cup | Adds extra fruitiness |
Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Used for the glaze |
Vanilla extract | ½ tsp | Enhances the glaze flavor |
Milk | 2-3 tbsp | Adjusts glaze consistency |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
Follow these simple steps to bake your own flaky, sweet, and creamy Danish pastries.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat.
- Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Set aside while preparing the pastry.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out thawed puff pastry sheets and cut into rectangles or squares.
- Score a small border around each piece (this helps the edges rise).
Step 4: Assemble the Danish Pastries
- Spoon a small amount of cream cheese filling into the center of each pastry.
- Add a spoonful of strawberry filling on top.
- Brush the edges with egg wash to create a golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place pastries on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
- If using, warm strawberry jam and brush it over the filling for extra shine.
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to create a glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pastries before serving.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
🔹 For extra crispiness, bake pastries on a preheated baking sheet.
🔹 For a richer filling, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
🔹 To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish
❓ Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.
❓ Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze unbaked pastries, then bake straight from the freezer (add 3-5 minutes).
❓ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain before making the filling.
Conclusion – Why Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Is a Must-Try Pastry
These Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish pastries are flaky, buttery, and bursting with flavor—everything you could want in a homemade pastry. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re sure to impress!
Now it’s your turn—try this recipe and let me know: Do you prefer them with extra glaze or just a light dusting of powdered sugar? Leave a comment below! 🍓✨
Advertisement