Each season brings new elements — changing weather, new clothes, adjusted AC settings at home, and most of all, fresh seasonal foods at the store. One of spring's most popular in-season foods is strawberries. While they’re available year-round, spring is when their flavor is at its peak — sweet, juicy, and irresistible.
A great way to enjoy this natural treat is with a homemade pastry. Strawberry cheesecake Danishes are not only a crowd-pleasing dessert or brunch side, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. Here’s everything you need!
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
- Remove the puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw. Preheat the oven to 400 F.
- In a stand mixer, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Once thawed, unfold the puff pastry and roll it out. Cut it into six rectangles.
- Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Place the sliced strawberries in your desired layout on top of the cream cheese.
- Using a fork, crimp the edges of each pastry, then brush the edges with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar over the pastries for a slight crystallized effect (optional).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the Danishes are puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.