If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery layers with bright, fruity flavors, you’re going to love this Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe. These pastries bring together the rich creaminess of sweetened cream cheese with the fresh zing of strawberries and a lively lemon glaze that ties everything perfectly together. Imagine golden puff pastry squares crowned with juicy berries and a drizzle of citrusy icing—this recipe is absolutely irresistible and perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to a special breakfast or brunch indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe is simple yet plays a crucial role in crafting those perfect layers of flavor and texture. From the flaky puff pastry base to the luscious cream cheese filling and bright strawberry topping, every element works together to create a pastry that’s both elegant and approachable.
- Frozen sheet puff pastry: Provides the flaky, buttery foundation that puff up beautifully when baked.
- Cream cheese: Adds rich creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- White granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cream cheese filling and the strawberries subtly without overpowering.
- Pure vanilla extract: Infuses a warm aroma and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Strawberries: Fresh, thinly sliced to bring juicy bursts of natural sweetness and color.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry mixture, preventing sogginess during baking.
- Large egg and water: Used to make an egg wash that creates a shiny, golden crust on the pastries.
- Powdered sugar: The base for the lemon glaze that adds sweetness and a smooth finish.
- Lemon zest and lemon juice: Provide a refreshing, citrusy pop that lifts the whole pastry.
How to Make Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe
Step 1: Thaw the Puff Pastry
Begin by removing your frozen puff pastry from the freezer and letting it rest on the counter for about 30 minutes. This gentle thaw softens the dough just enough, making it easy to handle and roll out without tearing.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
While the pastry is thawing, whip the cream cheese using a hand mixer until it’s velvety smooth. Then add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined and creamy. This mixture will give you that dreamy, luscious middle layer that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash and dry your strawberries thoroughly before slicing them thin. Toss the slices gently with cornstarch and sugar to thicken their juices and keep your pastries from becoming soggy while baking.
Step 4: Roll and Cut the Pastry
Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the slightly thawed puff pastry to even out the seams. Using a pizza cutter, slice the pastry lengthwise and then into thirds, giving you six rectangles. Place these on a greased baking sheet, then score a border around each rectangle without cutting all the way through to create that classic Danish edge.
Step 5: Fill the Pastries
Spoon a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle, spreading it gently towards the scored edges. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top with care, letting some of the cream cheese peek through for a beautiful layered look.
Step 6: Apply Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash, then brush it along the edges of each pastry. This step will ensure your danishes bake up with a gorgeous golden-brown shine that catches the eye.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven set at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the pastries to puff up fully and achieve that perfect golden color—this means they’re beautifully crisp on the outside while tender inside.
Step 8: Prepare Lemon Icing
While the pastries bake, mix sifted powdered sugar with fresh lemon zest and juice until smooth. This icing should be thick yet pourable so it can coat the pastries without melting right away, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich cream cheese and sweet berries.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Once baked, let your Danish pastries cool just slightly before drizzling with the lemon icing. The moment this tangy glaze hits the warm pastries, it brightens every bite and turns ordinary into extraordinary.
How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the look and flavor by adding a few fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest on top right before serving. A small sprig of fresh mint can also add a pretty, fragrant touch.
Side Dishes
This Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light herbal tea. For brunch, consider serving alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, arrange the pastries on a beautiful platter lined with edible flowers or fresh berry sprigs. You can also serve individual servings with small dollops of whipped cream and a drizzle of extra lemon glaze on the side for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Danish pastries can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the puff pastry crisp and the filling fresh without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the unbaked pastries after assembling them on the baking sheet. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To refresh leftovers, heat the pastries in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?
Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice adds a brighter, fresher taste that really elevates the lemon icing in this Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe.
What if I don’t have puff pastry on hand?
Puff pastry is key for that signature flaky texture, but in a pinch, you could try using frozen phyllo dough layers, though the texture and rise will be different.
How long do these pastries stay fresh?
They’re best enjoyed within two days of baking for optimal freshness, but storing them properly as instructed can extend their shelf life slightly without losing quality.
Can I substitute strawberries with other fruits?
Yes! Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches can be delicious alternatives, though the cornstarch quantity may need adjustment depending on the fruit’s juiciness.
Is it necessary to use an egg wash?
While not absolutely required, egg wash helps create that beautiful golden shine and crispy edges, making the pastries look as good as they taste.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe enough—it’s a delightful blend of simple ingredients transformed into a show-stopping, flaky treat that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to bring some sunshine to your morning, these danishes will not disappoint. Give them a try, and prepare for lots of compliments and requests for seconds!
Print
Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastries Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Strawberry Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture topped with fresh sliced strawberries. Finished with a zesty lemon glaze, these pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat. The puff pastry creates a light and crisp base, while the cream cheese and strawberries provide a luscious, fruity center bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Base
- 1 Frozen sheet puff pastry (thawed slightly)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
- 3 TBSP White granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups Strawberries (washed, dried, cut into thin slices)
- 1/2 TBSP Cornstarch
- 1/2 TBSP White granulated sugar
Egg Wash
- 1 Large egg
- 2 tsp Water
Lemon Icing
- 1/2 cup Powdered sugar (sifted)
- Zest of half a lemon
- 2–3 tsp Lemon juice
Instructions
- Thaw Puff Pastry: Remove the frozen sheet of puff pastry from the freezer and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes until it slightly softens, making it easier to roll and shape.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: While the pastry is thawing, beat the cream cheese on high speed with a hand mixer for 1 minute until smooth. Add 3 tablespoons of white sugar and beat again for another minute. Mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Prepare Strawberries: Wash, dry, and slice the strawberries thinly. Gently toss them with cornstarch and 1/2 tablespoon of sugar to help thicken their juices during baking.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Lightly flour your countertop and lay the thawed puff pastry on it. Roll the sheet slightly to blend any seams and create an even surface.
- Cut Pastry: Cut the sheet lengthwise in half, then cut each half into thirds to make six rectangles. Place these on a non-stick sprayed cookie sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a 1/4 inch border around each rectangle carefully without cutting all the way through to allow for raised edges while baking.
- Fill Pastries: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle. Spread it gently towards the scored border with the back of a spoon, being careful not to break the edges. Arrange sliced strawberries atop the cream cheese, leaving the edges visible.
- Apply Egg Wash: Whisk together the egg and water. Brush this egg wash on the pastry edges to give a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pastries for 20 to 25 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Prepare Lemon Icing: While baking, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice to create a smooth but thick icing.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pastries from the oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle the lemon icing over the warm Danish pastries just before serving for a fresh, tangy finish.
Notes
- Allow the puff pastry to thaw just enough to be workable but still cold for best flakiness.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth filling without lumps.
- Scoring the pastry edges helps create a raised border to contain the filling and strawberries during baking.
- The cornstarch in the strawberries prevents the juices from making the pastry soggy.
- The egg wash promotes a beautiful golden and shiny crust.
- The lemon glaze adds a bright citrus contrast that complements the sweet strawberries and creamy filling perfectly.
