Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastry Recipe

If you adore the perfect combination of flaky, buttery layers with a burst of fresh fruit and a tangy citrus twist, then you will absolutely fall in love with this Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastry Recipe. It is a delightful pastry that brings together the light crispness of puff pastry, the creamy sweetness of vanilla-infused cream cheese, juicy strawberries, and a refreshing lemon glaze that brightens every bite. Whether it’s for a cozy brunch, a special breakfast, or simply a sweet treat to share with loved ones, this recipe never fails to impress with its balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastry Recipe doesn’t require an overwhelming list of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that irresistible aroma, creamy texture, and refreshing finish, making the pastry both delicious and beautifully presented.

• Frozen sheet puff pastry: The flaky and buttery base that creates those signature crispy layers when baked.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Provides a smooth, rich, and slightly tangy filling that pairs wonderfully with sweet strawberries.
• White granulated sugar: Used to sweeten both the cream cheese filling and the strawberries, balancing tartness and enhancing flavor.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture for that comforting flavor note.
• Fresh strawberries: Thinly sliced for juicy, sweet fruit layers that bring bright color and natural sweetness.
• Cornstarch: A secret weapon that helps thicken strawberry juices during baking to prevent sogginess.
• Large egg: Mixed with water to create an egg wash that gives the pastry edges a golden, shiny finish.
• Powdered sugar (sifted): The base for the zesty lemon icing that adds a sweet, citrusy glaze.
• Lemon zest and juice: Infuse the icing with fresh, vibrant lemon flavor, perfectly complementing the strawberries.

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastry Recipe

Step 1: Thaw the Puff Pastry

Start by taking your frozen sheet of puff pastry out of the freezer and letting it soften on the counter for about 30 minutes. This gentle thaw makes the dough easier to handle and prevents it from tearing when you roll or cut it.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

While your pastry thaws, whip up the cream cheese filling. Beat the room temperature cream cheese on high with a hand mixer for one minute until smooth. Add 3 tablespoons of white sugar and continue blending for another minute, then mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until everything is perfectly combined. This creamy, sweet mixture will be the luscious base of your Danish pastries.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries

Wash, dry, and slice 2 cups of fresh strawberries thinly to ensure they cook evenly and release just enough juice. Toss the slices gently with 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1/2 tablespoon of sugar. The cornstarch helps to absorb excess liquid so your pastries stay crisp and not soggy during baking.

Step 4: Roll Out and Cut the Puff Pastry

Lightly flour your workspace and place the thawed puff pastry sheet down. Roll it out just enough to smooth seams and create a uniform surface. Cut the sheet lengthwise in half, then cut each half into thirds, giving you six rectangles. Place them on a baking sheet lined with non-stick spray. Score a 1/4 inch border around each rectangle with a sharp knife, careful not to cut all the way through. This border will puff up around the filling for that classic Danish shape.

Step 5: Fill the Pastries

Spread roughly a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the filling towards the scored edges, leaving that border intact. Arrange the strawberry slices on top, letting some cream cheese show around the sides for a pretty contrast.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash

Whisk together 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of water to create a shiny egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly paint the edges of each pastry to give them a beautiful golden glow once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pastries into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch as they turn golden brown and puff up, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Icing

As the Danish pastries bake, mix sifted powdered sugar with the zest of half a lemon and 2 to 3 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. Stir until it achieves a smooth, pourable consistency that’s thick enough to hold on the warm pastries without melting away too quickly.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Once baked, let your Danish pastries cool briefly before drizzling the lemon icing over them. This final touch adds a refreshing citrus zing that perfectly complements the sweet strawberries and creamy filling.

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastry Recipe

Garnishes

For an elegant presentation, sprinkle some extra lemon zest or a few whole fresh strawberries on top of the iced Danish pastries. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy, inviting finish especially for a brunch spread that wows.

Side Dishes

Pair this pastry with a hot cup of coffee or tea to brighten your morning. A simple fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream also complements the light fruity flavors beautifully, making for a balanced and satisfying treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the Danish pastries on a tiered serving platter for brunch or gifting them in a decorative box lined with parchment paper. Alternatively, you can serve smaller bite-sized versions as part of a dessert platter, perfect for parties or afternoon teas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain the flaky texture and keeps the filling fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked Danish pastries by preparing them fully up to filling and egg wash, then placing them on a lined baking tray in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe container and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To enjoy warm Danish pastries later, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This revives their crispiness without drying them out — just avoid the microwave to keep that flaky texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pastry dough instead of frozen puff pastry?

Absolutely! Fresh homemade puff pastry works beautifully if you have the time and skill. Just keep in mind it takes longer to prepare, but the flakiness and flavor can be even more impressive.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese or a thick coconut cream. This will still provide a creamy texture, though the flavor may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pastries and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to brush with egg wash right before placing them in the oven for the best crust.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy with fruit fillings?

The cornstarch mixed with the strawberries helps absorb excess juice. Also, scoring the border and not overfilling prevents juices from leaking and softening the puff pastry edges.

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Certainly! Blueberries, raspberries, or peach slices make wonderful alternatives, and you can mix and match fruit fillings with the lemon icing to keep the flavors fresh and exciting.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Strawberry Lemon Danish Pastry Recipe enough for anyone craving a homemade, impressive pastry that’s bursting with flavor and contrasting textures. It’s straightforward yet feels like a special treat every time you make it. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your friends to a beautiful batch of these irresistible pastries. You’ll be so glad you did!

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