Strawberry Danish Cream Cheese: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Strawberry Danish Cream Cheese – just the name conjures up images of flaky pastry, sweet cream cheese, and juicy strawberries, doesn’t it? Get ready to experience a slice of heaven because this recipe delivers on all fronts! Forget those store-bought pastries that are often dry and disappointing. We’re about to embark on a baking adventure that will result in a truly unforgettable treat.

The history of the Danish pastry, or “wienerbrød” as it’s known in Denmark, is surprisingly Viennese! Bakers from Austria brought their techniques to Denmark in the mid-19th century, and the Danes quickly adapted and perfected the recipe, adding their own unique twist. While the classic Danish often features a simple cream cheese filling, the addition of fresh strawberries elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What makes a Strawberry Danish Cream Cheese so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The buttery, flaky pastry gives way to a smooth, tangy cream cheese filling, and then bursts of sweet, slightly tart strawberries dance on your tongue. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is simply divine. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Strawberry Danish Cream Cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your baking skills!

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• For the Strawberry Topping:
• 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• For the Glaze (Optional):
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. This ensures the salt and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is crucial for proper dough development.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (work quickly to prevent the butter from melting), cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see small pieces of butter – these are what create flaky layers in the danish. Don’t overmix!
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to add too much water, as this will make the dough tough. The dough should be slightly shaggy but not sticky.
4. Form and Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently form it into a rectangle. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is essential for relaxing the gluten and allowing the butter to firm up, which will result in a flakier danish.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling:

1. Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
2. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg adds richness and helps bind the filling together.
3. Add Flour: Stir in the flour until just combined. The flour helps to stabilize the filling and prevent it from becoming too runny during baking. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Set Aside: Cover the bowl and set aside while you prepare the strawberry topping and roll out the dough.

Preparing the Strawberry Topping:

1. Combine Strawberries and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices. This maceration process intensifies the strawberry flavor and creates a natural sauce.
2. Cook the Strawberries: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the strawberry mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the strawberries have softened slightly and the juices have thickened a bit.
3. Add Lemon Juice and Cornstarch: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and cornstarch. This prevents the cornstarch from clumping when added to the hot strawberry mixture.
4. Thicken the Topping: Pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering strawberries and stir constantly until the topping thickens. This should only take a minute or two. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. The topping will thicken further as it cools.

Assembling and Baking the Danish:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the danishes from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. The dough should be about 1/8 inch thick. Work quickly to keep the dough cold.
3. Cut the Dough: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal rectangles.
4. Add Filling: Place the dough rectangles onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese filling onto the center of each rectangle, leaving a border around the edges.
5. Add Strawberry Topping: Spoon the strawberry topping over the cream cheese filling. Don’t overfill the danishes, as the filling may spill out during baking.
6. Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the dough with the lightly beaten egg. This will give the danishes a golden-brown color and a slightly crisp texture.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the danishes are golden brown and the filling is set. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
8. Cool: Remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Glaze (Optional):

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Add more milk or cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to drizzle but thin enough to spread easily.
2. Drizzle Glaze: Once the danishes are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more precise application.
3. Serve: Serve the strawberry cream cheese danishes immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips for Success:

• Keep the Butter Cold: This is the most important tip for achieving flaky layers. Cold butter creates steam as it bakes, which separates the layers of dough.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough danish. Mix just until the dough comes together.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, which is essential for a flaky texture.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture for the topping.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: You can adjust the amount of sugar in the strawberry topping and cream cheese filling to your liking.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with other fruit toppings, such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Variations:

• Individual Danishes: Instead of cutting the dough into rectangles, you can cut it into squares or circles for individual danishes.
• Braided Danish: For a more impressive presentation, you can braid the dough before adding the filling.
• Different Fillings: Try using different fillings, such as apple pie filling, cherry pie filling, or chocolate ganache.
• Savory Danish: For a savory option, try using a filling of spinach and feta cheese or ham and cheese.

Conclusion:

This Strawberry Danish Cream Cheese recipe isn’t just another dessert; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen. From the flaky, golden-brown pastry to the creamy, tangy filling and the burst of sweet, juicy strawberries, every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of treat that elevates any occasion, whether it’s a weekend brunch, a special celebration, or simply a moment of self-indulgence. Trust me, the aroma alone baking in your oven is enough to make your day brighter!

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. While the classic combination of strawberries and cream cheese is undeniably divine, feel free to experiment and make it your own. Imagine swapping the strawberries for fresh raspberries or blueberries for a different berry twist. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a bright, citrusy note. A sprinkle of chopped almonds or pecans on top before baking adds a delightful crunch. For a richer, more decadent experience, consider drizzling a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled Danish.

Serving suggestions are endless! This Strawberry Danish Cream Cheese is perfect served warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a more elegant presentation, slice the Danish into individual portions and arrange them on a platter with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. You can even make mini versions using muffin tins for adorable bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or potlucks.

Don’t be intimidated by the thought of making a Danish from scratch. This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, and the results are well worth the effort. I’ve broken down each step into clear, concise instructions, so even beginner bakers can achieve success. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something so beautiful and delicious with your own hands is truly rewarding.

I genuinely believe that this recipe will become a new favorite in your household. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure. I’m confident that you’ll love the results as much as I do.

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please share your photos and comments with me. Let me know what variations you tried, what you loved most about it, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll enjoy. So, don’t be shy – share your baking triumphs (and even your occasional mishaps!) with me. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Let me know how your Strawberry Danish Cream Cheese turns out!