Name: Strawberry Danish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488369H50M23S
Total time: PT-488369H50M23S
Cuisine: Bakery-style
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional: granulated sugar for sprinkling; 2 tbsp strawberry jam, warmed; Or: 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, 1–2 tbsp milk

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Strawberry Danish is a flaky, golden puff pastry filled with sweetened cream cheese and juicy strawberries. It’s finished with a warm brush of strawberry jam or a delicate vanilla glaze. I like making these because they come together quickly and always impress, whether I’m serving them for a relaxed weekend breakfast or a charming dessert.

Strawberry Danish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to create something that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. With just a few ingredients and steps, this Strawberry Danish transforms store-bought puff pastry into a delicious and elegant pastry.

I can make it in under an hour from start to finish.
It’s a versatile treat—great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
I get to enjoy layers of crispy pastry, creamy filling, and fresh fruit in every bite.
It’s customizable with glazes or jams.
I don’t need any fancy baking tools—just a few bowls and a baking sheet.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream Cheese Filling

cream cheese
powdered sugar
vanilla extract

Fresh Strawberry Filling

fresh strawberries, sliced
sugar
cornstarch

Puff Pastry

puff pastry sheets, thawed
egg (for egg wash)
sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Optional Toppings

strawberry jam
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
milk

Directions

I let the puff pastry thaw at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes and preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). I line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, I mix the sliced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch and let them sit for 15 minutes.
In another bowl, I beat the cream cheese until smooth, then I add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined.
I unfold one puff pastry sheet and cut it into six smaller rectangles. Using a paring knife, I score a ¼-inch border around each rectangle.
Inside the border, I spread about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling. I layer a few slices of the strawberry mixture over the top.
I brush the pastry edges with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. If the pastry feels warm, I chill the assembled danishes in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.
I bake for 20–25 minutes, until the danishes are golden brown. I let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
I brush with warm strawberry jam or drizzle with a glaze made of powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk once they’re cool.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 strawberry danishes.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Cooling time: 5 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Lemon Glaze: I sometimes switch the vanilla glaze for a fresh lemon glaze using lemon juice and powdered sugar. It adds a bright zing.
Strawberry Only: I skip the cream cheese and use just strawberry jam and sliced strawberries if I want a lighter version.
Braided Danish: I keep the puff pastry whole and create a braided version for a more dramatic presentation—perfect for brunch spreads.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover danishes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. If I’m serving them later, I reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to bring back the crispness.

I usually don’t freeze these because the strawberries tend to get soggy after thawing. But if I must, I flash freeze them on a baking sheet for 20 minutes and then transfer to an airtight container. To serve, I let them thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before warming.

FAQs

Can strawberry danishes be made the night before?

Yes, I prep them the night before by assembling the pastries and storing them in the fridge. I bake them fresh the next morning for the best texture and flavor.

How do I thaw puff pastry?

I leave the puff pastry out at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until it’s just pliable enough to unfold without cracking.

Can I use frozen strawberries to make cream cheese danishes?

I prefer fresh strawberries, but frozen can work if I thaw them completely, pat them dry, and slice them before mixing with sugar and cornstarch.

How do you crisp cold or baked danishes?

I pop them into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes. This helps restore the crisp texture to the puff pastry.

Can I make these without cream cheese?

Yes, I make them with just strawberry jam and fresh strawberries for a lighter option. They still taste delicious and bake up beautifully.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Danish recipe is my go-to when I want something beautiful, flavorful, and easy to make. I love the contrast of crispy pastry, creamy filling, and bright strawberries. Whether I’m sharing them over coffee or serving them at brunch, they’re always a hit.