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Flaky Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Delight

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A quick and easy homemade Danish pastry featuring flaky puff pastry, silky cream cheese filling, and a sweet-tart strawberry topping. Perfect for brunch or coffee breaks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened (full-fat for best texture)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for cream cheese filling)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
  • 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for strawberry topping)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (to thicken)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and start to soften, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely to room temperature.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy using a whisk or electric mixer. Add egg yolk and mix until fully combined. Set aside.
  3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 4 equal squares (about 5 x 5 inches / 13 x 13 cm). Place squares on the lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
  4. Fill the Danish Delight: Using a spoon, dollop about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the cream cheese filling into the center of each square. Spread gently, leaving a small border. Next, spoon 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of cooled strawberry topping over the cream cheese layer, being careful not to overflow.
  5. Shape and Egg Wash: Fold the corners of each square slightly towards the center or leave open-faced, depending on your preference. Brush the edges of the pastry lightly with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
  6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar.

Notes

Keep cream cheese softened for smooth mixing. Cook strawberry topping until thickened and cool before assembling to prevent soggy pastry. Egg wash seals edges and promotes golden crust. Do not overcrowd baking sheet for even puffing. For dairy-free or vegan versions, use plant-based cream cheese, vegan puff pastry, and substitute egg wash with plant-based milk or aquafaba.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry danish, cream cheese pastry, puff pastry dessert, easy Danish recipe, flaky pastry, brunch dessert

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/flaky-strawberry-cream-cheese-danish-delight-easy-homemade-recipe-for-perfect-pastry/