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Quick & Easy Strawberry Danish

Bakery-style strawberry danish made with flaky puff pastry, a sweet cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries. Ready in under 40 minutes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 danishes
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, French Inspired
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pastry Base
  • 1 box frozen puff pastry thawed (2 sheets)
  • 1 large egg beaten with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Cream Cheese Filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 0.33 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg yolk optional, for richness
Toppings
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk for glaze
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract for glaze

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or whisk
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Unfold thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares.
  3. Using a sharp knife, lightly score a border about 1/2 inch from the edge of each square. Use a fork to prick holes (dock) the center square.
  4. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla, and egg yolk until smooth.
  5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square, spreading slightly within the scored border.
  6. Top the cream cheese with sliced strawberries.
  7. Brush the outer edges of the pastry with the egg wash.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
  9. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled danishes.

Notes

Ensure puff pastry is cold before baking for maximum puff.