Strawberry Danish Recipe

A warm, flaky strawberry Danish is the epitome of breakfast indulgence. Combining buttery pastry with juicy strawberry filling creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors. What makes this dish so special is the harmony of fresh ingredients, from the tangy fruit to the rich, buttery dough. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make strawberry Danish from scratch, enhancing it with a creamy filling and a glossy glaze for the perfect finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Danish offers an irresistible combination of flaky pastry and sweet, creamy filling. The buttery layers of dough are the ideal base for the smooth, tangy strawberry filling, creating a delicious contrast with every bite. Additionally, the cream cheese filling adds richness and depth, complementing the natural sweetness of the strawberries. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe delivers a satisfying and delightful treat. It’s versatile, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser, especially when you want to impress guests or treat yourself to something special.

The best part is that this strawberry Danish recipe is highly customizable. You can experiment with different fruit fillings, such as raspberries or blueberries, or even make mini versions for a fun twist. Once you master the dough and filling, you can create variations to suit your preferences. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, the rich, buttery flavor and fresh strawberry filling will never disappoint.

Recipe Details

The Danish pastry has its roots in Denmark, where it was originally influenced by Austrian baking traditions. The dough used for Danish pastries is a laminated dough, meaning butter is folded into the dough multiple times to create delicate, flaky layers. This process is what gives the pastry its signature texture—crispy and buttery on the outside, soft and light on the inside. The strawberry filling, a simple yet flavorful combination of fresh fruit, sugar, and lemon, balances the richness of the pastry and adds a refreshing, tangy element.

This strawberry Danish recipe builds on that traditional pastry foundation, adding cream cheese to the filling for extra richness and flavor. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy filling is a classic, while the glaze on top adds a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the pastry. This is a dessert that captures both the simplicity and elegance of Danish pastries, with a touch of modern indulgence.

Nutritional Information

While strawberry Danish is a treat best enjoyed occasionally, it does provide some nutritional benefits. A single serving of this pastry (approximately half a Danish) contains around 250-350 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. The dough provides carbohydrates and a small amount of protein, while the butter and cream cheese contribute healthy fats. The fresh strawberries, on the other hand, offer antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin C, that promote immune health and skin health.

Though rich in calories, this pastry can be a source of satisfaction when consumed in moderation. For those who are watching their calorie intake or looking to make the recipe lighter, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese, cutting back on sugar, or substituting the butter with a lower-calorie option. This makes it more versatile, and you can still enjoy all the delicious flavors while adjusting to your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Pastry Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup whole milk, warm
• 1 large egg

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

The ingredients for this recipe come together to create the perfect balance of flavors. The dough uses simple pantry ingredients like flour, yeast, and butter to create that buttery, flaky texture. Fresh strawberries offer a burst of natural sweetness for the filling, while a touch of lemon juice helps brighten the flavor. The cream cheese filling adds a richness that complements the fruit’s tangy taste, while the glaze gives the Danish a sweet, glossy finish. These basic ingredients combine to form a delicious, balanced pastry.

Equipment Needed

To make strawberry Danish, you’ll need the following equipment:

• A large mixing bowl for the dough
• A rolling pin for rolling out the dough
• A sharp knife for chopping the strawberries
• A baking sheet for baking the Danish
• Parchment paper for lining the baking sheet
• A small saucepan for preparing the strawberry filling
• A whisk for mixing the glaze

Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving a perfect strawberry Danish. A large mixing bowl allows ample space to combine ingredients for the dough. A rolling pin is essential for rolling the dough evenly. Parchment paper on the baking sheet ensures that the Danish don’t stick and allows for easy cleanup. The small saucepan is perfect for making the strawberry filling, while a whisk ensures that the glaze is smooth and free from lumps.

Pro Tips For Success

1. Cold Butter for Flakiness: For the flakiest pastry, make sure the butter is cold when you add it to the dough. Cold butter creates layers in the dough as it bakes, which leads to the signature flaky texture of Danish pastries.
2. Handle the Dough Gently: Avoid overworking the dough, as this can lead to tough pastry. Instead, gently roll and fold the dough to maintain its light texture.
3. Let the Dough Rest: After rolling out the dough, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before shaping the Danish. This resting period helps the dough relax, making it easier to handle and less likely to shrink during baking.
4. Use Fresh, Juicy Strawberries: For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries that are in season. If you use frozen strawberries, be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy filling.
5. Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking the Danish to ensure even baking. A hot oven helps the pastry puff up beautifully.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk the warm milk and egg together, then pour it into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms, then knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling: While the dough rests, prepare the strawberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
4. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 8 smaller squares or rectangles.
5. Assemble the Danish: Place a spoonful of cream cheese filling in the center of each dough square, followed by a dollop of the strawberry filling. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a square or rectangle, leaving the filling exposed in the center.
6. Bake the Danish: Place the assembled Danish on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
7. Make the Glaze: While the Danish are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
8. Finish the Danish: Once the Danish have cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Recipe Variations

1. Try Different Fruits: You can substitute the strawberries for other fresh fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries. A peach Danish also makes for a delicious variation.
2. Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top of the cream cheese filling before adding the fruit. The nuts will toast slightly as the Danish bakes.
3. Make It Vegan: Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan butter, almond milk, and dairy-free cream cheese, for a vegan-friendly version of strawberry Danish.
4. Mini Danish: For bite-sized treats, cut the dough into smaller squares and assemble mini Danish. These are perfect for parties or as a quick snack.

Storage Instructions

Strawberry Danish can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the Danish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. For longer storage, wrap each Danish individually and freeze them for up to 1 month. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the pastry is warm and flaky.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your strawberry Danish with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch. Pair it with a light fruit salad or a side of scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness. For dessert, serve the Danish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to make it even more indulgent.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Simply store the dough in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
2. Can I use puff pastry instead of homemade dough?
   Yes, puff pastry can be used for a quicker version of this recipe. Roll it out and follow the same assembly instructions for a flakier texture.
3. How can I make these Danish smaller?
   Cut the dough into smaller squares or rounds to make mini Danish. The baking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
4. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Yes, frozen strawberries can be used Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
5. Can I freeze these Danish?
   Yes, you can freeze the Danish either before or after baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Conclusion

Strawberry Danish is the perfect combination of sweet, flaky, and creamy, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch or a weekend breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The buttery pastry, tangy strawberry filling, and creamy cheese center create a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Once you master this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to create homemade strawberry Danish that’s as impressive as it is tasty. Enjoy!

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