Description
A flaky, buttery puff pastry filled with sweet strawberry jam and optional cream cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a dessert treat. You can make it with or without cream cheese depending on your preference, and it’s delightfully golden and glossy when baked.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (makes 6–8 Danish pastries):
For the Danish:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
½ cup cream cheese, softened (optional)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup strawberry jam or fresh chopped strawberries
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Optional Toppings:
Sliced almonds
Fresh strawberry slices
Apricot glaze or honey for shine
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Puff Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out puff pastry slightly on a lightly floured surface. Cut into rectangles (~4×6 inches).
Step 2: Make Filling
If using cream cheese, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble Danish
Spread a spoonful of cream cheese mixture (if using) in the center of each rectangle, then add a dollop of strawberry jam or chopped strawberries on top. Fold corners toward the center or leave open-faced for a classic look.
Step 4: Add Egg Wash
Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg to ensure golden color. Sprinkle sliced almonds if desired.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or brush with apricot glaze for shine.
Notes
- No Cream Cheese Version: Just use strawberry jam for a lighter Danish.
- Mini Danishes: Cut pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized treats.
- Make Ahead: Pastries can be assembled ahead and baked fresh for breakfast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Dessert / Pastry
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American / European-Inspired
