Description
Strawberry Danish is more than just a delightful pastry; it’s a quintessential treat that captures the essence of spring and summer.
Ingredients
For the Danish Pastry:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 cup milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened and divided (3/4 cup for folding and 1/4 cup for dough)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (or cream for a richer taste)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
For Decoration:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons milk (to adjust consistency for drizzling)
Suggested Variations:
- For a touch of spice, add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the cream cheese filling.
- Try mixing in some finely chopped basil or mint for a refreshing twist in the strawberry filling.
- For an almond flavor, incorporate 1 teaspoon of almond extract into the cream cheese mixture.
- Experiment with frozen strawberries or blueberry filling for a different fruit Danish option.
Alternative Ingredients:
- Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy flavor in the filling.
- If fresh strawberries are not available, canned strawberry pie filling can be used as a quick alternative, though fresh provides superior flavor and texture.
Instructions
Start by collecting all necessary ingredients. You will need puff pastry, fresh strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, an egg, and cream cheese.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly baked pastry once assembled.
Thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator for about two hours. Once softened, roll it out on a floured surface to prevent sticking.
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the rolled-out pastry into rectangles, approximately 4 inches by 6 inches. You can adjust the size as desired.
Wash and slice the fresh strawberries. In a medium bowl, combine the strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Toss gently to ensure the strawberries are evenly coated. Set this mixture aside.
In another bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This will add a creamy layer to your pastry.
Take one piece of the prepared puff pastry. Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center, followed by a spoonful of the strawberry filling.
Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, creating a triangle shape. Press the edges gently with your fingers to seal the Danish securely.
Beat an egg in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of the egg wash over each Danish. This will give the pastries a beautiful golden color once baked.
Place the assembled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 18-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
After baking, allow the Strawberry Danish to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve them warm, and enjoy your delightful treat!
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 20minutes + Resting Time: 30minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 danishes
- Calories: 112 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g