If you have a soft spot for bright, fruity breakfast treats or irresistible brunch delights, then the Strawberry Lemon Danish with Cream Cheese and Icing Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This heavenly Danish balances flaky, buttery puff pastry with the luscious creaminess of sweetened cream cheese, topped with fresh strawberries and a zingy lemon icing that ties everything together beautifully. Each bite bursts with freshness and indulgence, making it perfect to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a bit of homemade pastry magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and essential ingredients come together effortlessly in this recipe, each playing their role to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the crisp, buttery layers of puff pastry to the tangy lemon zest in the icing, every element shines through.
- Frozen sheet puff pastry: The base of the Danish, providing that flaky, golden crust that’s pure delight.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, room temperature): This adds creamy richness and a slight tang to contrast the sweet strawberries.
- White granulated sugar: Used in the cream cheese mixture and for sweetening the strawberries, it brings balanced sweetness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): A little touch of warm, aromatic flavor enhancing the cream cheese filling.
- Strawberries (2 cups, sliced): Fresh, juicy, and vibrant—it’s the star fruit bursting with natural sweetness.
- Cornstarch (1/2 tbsp): Helps thicken the strawberry juices so your Danish doesn’t get soggy.
- Large egg (1) and water (2 tsp): These combine to create the egg wash that gives the pastry crust a beautiful golden sheen.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, sifted): The base of the lemon icing for that sweet finishing touch.
- Lemon zest (half a lemon) and lemon juice (2-3 tsp): They brighten up the icing with fresh citrus notes, making each bite refreshing and light.
How to Make Strawberry Lemon Danish with Cream Cheese and Icing Recipe
Step 1: Thaw the Puff Pastry
Start by removing the frozen puff pastry from the freezer and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This slight thawing makes it easier to handle and less likely to crack or tear when you roll it out.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
While the pastry is thawing, blend the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth, then gradually add 3 tablespoons of white sugar to sweeten it up. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract for that subtle warmth and fragrant touch that makes the filling absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries
Gently wash, dry, and slice the strawberries thinly to spread evenly on your Danish. Toss them with a bit of cornstarch and sugar—this trick helps keep juices in check during baking so your pastry stays perfectly flaky without becoming soggy.
Step 4: Roll Out and Cut the Pastry
Lightly flour your countertop and roll the thawed sheet of puff pastry just enough to smooth the seams together. Cut the sheet lengthwise in half, then cut each half into three rectangles, giving you six evenly sized pastries to fill. Don’t forget to score a 1/4 inch border around each piece to help the edges puff up beautifully.
Step 5: Fill the Pastries
Spoon a generous tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the middle of each rectangle, smoothing it carefully up to the scored edges. Then arrange the strawberry slices on top, leaving a bit of the creamy filling visible around the border. This layering looks stunning once baked.
Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash
Whisk the egg with water to create an egg wash, then brush it gently along the pastry edges. This step is what gives your Danish that irresistible golden shine that beckons you from the oven.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your beautifully prepared pastries into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that puff pastry to rise and turn a gorgeous golden brown—this means your Danish is ready to come out and be admired.
Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Icing
While your Danish is baking, mix together sifted powdered sugar, fresh lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth, aiming for a drizzle consistency. This icing will add a tangy, sweet citrus finish that perfectly complements the strawberries and cream cheese.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Once the pastries have cooled slightly, drizzle your lemon icing generously over the top. Serve them warm to enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth pastry with delightful bursts of strawberry, cream cheese, and a refreshing lemony kick.
How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Danish with Cream Cheese and Icing Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Strawberry Lemon Danish with Cream Cheese and Icing Recipe truly pop on the table, consider topping with a few fresh mint leaves or extra thin lemon slices. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the iced pastries can add an elegant snow-like finish that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Danish with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a bright herbal tea elevates the breakfast or brunch experience. For a more substantial meal, a fresh fruit salad or a bowl of Greek yogurt on the side adds complementary textures and flavors without overpowering the delicate Danish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Danish on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of extra cream cheese and lemon icing for dipping. Alternatively, stack a few on a tiered dessert stand to create a stunning centerpiece for a brunch gathering or special occasion. Wrapping individual pastries in parchment paper tied with a lemon-colored ribbon also makes for lovely edible gifts!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Strawberry Lemon Danish with Cream Cheese and Icing Recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigeration will extend freshness to about four days, though letting them come to room temperature before serving helps regain that buttery flakiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked filled pastries on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll always have a quick, delicious treat ready to go!
Reheating
Warm leftover Danish in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, just enough to refresh the pastry’s crispness without drying out the filling. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the puff pastry chewy instead of flaky.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?
Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice is actually preferred for the icing because it provides brighter, more natural citrus flavor that beautifully complements the strawberries and cream cheese.
What if I can’t find puff pastry sheets?
Frozen puff pastry sheets are widely available, but if not, you could experiment with phyllo dough for a different texture or even crescent roll dough for a quicker option, although the flavor and flakiness will vary.
Can I substitute other berries for strawberries?
Yes, blueberries or raspberries can work well. Just keep in mind each berry has different moisture levels, so you might want to adjust the cornstarch amount slightly to avoid sogginess.
How important is the egg wash?
The egg wash really makes a difference in appearance—it adds a shiny, golden crust that’s both visually inviting and adds a slight crispness to the pastry edges.
Can I make the lemon icing less sweet?
Definitely! Adjust the powdered sugar or add more lemon juice gradually until the desired balance is reached. Some prefer a more tart icing to cut through the cream cheese’s richness.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Lemon Danish with Cream Cheese and Icing Recipe is one of those delightful treats that always brings a smile, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast or hosting friends for brunch. With its perfect harmony of flaky pastry, cool cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and zesty lemon icing, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So don’t hesitate—get that puff pastry thawing and make some kitchen magic happen today!
Print
Strawberry Lemon Danish with Cream Cheese and Icing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and fresh sliced strawberries. Topped with a tangy lemon icing, these homemade pastries are a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and citrus flavors. Perfect as a breakfast treat or elegant dessert, they offer an inviting presentation with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 frozen sheet puff pastry (thawed slightly)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups strawberries (washed, dried, cut into thin slices)
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 tablespoon white granulated sugar
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons water
Lemon Icing
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- Zest of half a lemon
- 2–3 teaspoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Thaw Puff Pastry: Remove the frozen puff pastry from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it is slightly thawed and easier to work with.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese on high speed for 1 minute until smooth. Add 3 tablespoons of white granulated sugar and continue beating for another minute. Mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Prepare Strawberries: Wash, dry, and thinly slice 2 cups of strawberries. Place them in a bowl and gently toss with 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch and 1/2 tablespoon white granulated sugar to help thicken the juices during baking.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a clean countertop. Place the thawed puff pastry sheet on it and roll slightly to blend seams and create an even surface.
- Cut Pastry: Using a pizza cutter, slice the pastry sheet lengthwise into two equal halves. Then cut each half into thirds to make six rectangles. Transfer these to a cookie sheet sprayed with non-stick baking spray. Score a 1/4 inch border around each rectangle with a sharp knife without cutting through.
- Fill Pastries: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle. Spread it gently toward the scored border using the back of a spoon. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top, leaving the edges visible.
- Apply Egg Wash: Whisk together 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons water in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the egg wash onto the edges of each pastry to help them turn golden and shiny when baked.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pastries on the prepared cookie sheet for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Prepare Lemon Icing: While the pastries bake, combine 1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar with the zest of half a lemon and 2 to 3 teaspoons lemon juice. Stir until smooth and pourable but still thick enough so it doesn’t melt immediately on the warm pastries.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the Danish pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the lemon icing over the warm pastries before serving for a fresh, citrusy finish.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
- Do not over-thaw the puff pastry; it should be soft enough to handle but still cold.
- Scoring the border helps contain the filling and creates a beautiful puffed edge.
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus twist.
- Serve pastries warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently in an oven to maintain crispiness.
