Strawberry Danish Recipe: A Flaky, Sweet Delight
Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked puff pastry filled with creamy cheese and juicy strawberries. A Strawberry Danish isn’t just a treat; it’s a bite of happiness in every flaky layer. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack, this pastry feels like a warm hug on a plate.
What makes a Strawberry Danish so special? It’s the harmony of flavors—the buttery crust, velvety cream cheese, and the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is approachable, fun, and worth every moment in the kitchen.
Picture yourself pulling a tray of these golden, fruit-filled pastries out of the oven. Drizzled with a zesty lemon glaze, they’re irresistibly tempting. You’ll not only impress your taste buds but anyone lucky enough to share them with you.
Ready to create this delicious masterpiece? Follow this simple recipe to make Strawberry Danish pastries that taste as good as they look. Let’s get baking!
Why This Strawberry Danish Recipe Stands Out
Unlike many recipes, this guide emphasizes not just the ingredients and steps but also the techniques and tips to ensure professional-quality results. Here’s what makes our Strawberry Danish truly special:
- Fresh Strawberry Filling: Avoids overly sweet jams for a balanced, fresh flavor.
- Easy Puff Pastry Base: Perfect for beginners using store-bought pastry.
- Lemon Glaze: Adds a zesty twist to complement the sweetness.
Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Strawberry Danishes, gather the following ingredients:
- Puff Pastry (1 sheet, frozen and slightly thawed)
- Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened)
- Granulated Sugar (3 tablespoons, divided)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Fresh Strawberries (2 cups, sliced thin)
- Cornstarch (½ tablespoon)
- Egg (1, for egg wash)
- Water (2 teaspoons)
- Powdered Sugar (½ cup, sifted)
- Lemon Zest (from half a lemon)
- Lemon Juice (2–3 teaspoons)
Required Kitchen Tools
To ensure the best results, have these tools ready:
- Mixing Bowls: For the filling and glaze preparation.
- Hand Mixer: To achieve a smooth cream cheese mixture.
- Sharp Knife: For scoring the pastry and slicing strawberries.
- Rolling Pin: For slight adjustments to the puff pastry.
- Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper or sprayed with non-stick spray.
- Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the pastries after baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Remove the puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw for about 30 minutes.
- Lightly flour your counter and roll the pastry slightly to blend seams.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the cream cheese on high for 1 minute using a hand mixer.
- Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
3. Prepare the Strawberries
- Slice strawberries thinly.
- Mix the cornstarch and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar with the strawberries.
4. Shape and Fill the Pastry
- Cut the pastry into six rectangles.
- Score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle with a knife.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling within the border.
- Arrange the strawberry slices neatly on top of the filling.
5. Apply Egg Wash
- Beat the egg with water and brush it along the edges of the pastry.
6. Bake
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the pastries for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- Combine powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm pastries.
Serving and Decoration
Serve the Strawberry Danish slightly warm for the best taste and texture. For an elegant presentation:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle enhances visual appeal.
- Add Fresh Mint Leaves: A small sprig adds a touch of freshness.
- Serve with Coffee or Tea: The perfect pairing for breakfast or brunch.
Nutrition Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per Danish:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Sodium | 75 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
How to Store Strawberry Danish
Room Temperature:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration:
- Place in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Warm slightly before serving.
Freezing:
- Freeze unglazed Danishes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
No, frozen strawberries release too much moisture, affecting the pastry’s texture.
2. Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and cut the puff pastry the night before. Assemble and bake fresh for the best results.
3. Is the lemon glaze necessary?
While optional, the glaze adds a delightful tanginess that complements the strawberries.
4. Can I make these without cream cheese?
You can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Making Strawberry Danish at home is easier than you think! With flaky pastry, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself to a sweet breakfast, these pastries will impress.
We hope this recipe inspires your baking adventures. If you try it, leave a comment below or share your creations with us on social media!
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