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This strawberry cream cheese heart danishes recipe brings together a flaky puff pastry crust with a creamy, fruity filling that feels both indulgent and approachable. Perfect for a special breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day, it uses simple ingredients with a touch of homemade charm. The heart shape adds a fun and festive feel, making it ideal for celebrations or just showing a little extra care in your baking.
I remember making these for a Valentine's Day brunch and watching everyone's faces light up when they saw the heart shapes. The balance of tart strawberries and smooth cream cheese quickly made it a new family favorite.
Gather Your Ingredients
- One sheet of store-bought puff pastry: provides a perfectly flaky crust, look for all-butter varieties for best flavor
- Four ounces cream cheese at room temperature: key for smooth filling, use dairy-free cream cheese if needed for dietary preferences
- Two tablespoons white sugar: sweetens the filling without overpowering it, powdered sugar can create a silkier texture
- Half a teaspoon vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth to the filling, pure vanilla extract always tastes best
- Half a cup diced strawberries: fresh works best to keep the filling bright and juicy, if frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid sogginess
- One large egg: for the egg wash that gives the pastry its golden color
- One tablespoon cold water: to mix with the egg for the wash
How to Make It
- Slicing and Preparing Strawberries:
- Rinse and dice fresh strawberries evenly to ensure every bite has bursts of juicy fruit. If using frozen strawberries, thaw completely and drain excess liquid so the pastry stays crisp.
- Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This base makes the filling rich but not overly sweet.
- Shaping the Hearts:
- Roll the thawed puff pastry sheet lightly on a floured surface. Cut into squares or rectangles, then carefully shape the dough into hearts by folding or cutting. This adds a charming touch without complex techniques.
- Filling the Pastry:
- Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each heart. Top with diced strawberries, gently pressing them into the filling. Avoid overfilling to prevent leakage during baking.
- Preparing the Egg Wash:
- Whisk the egg with cold water and gently brush over the edges of the pastry hearts. This step helps the danishes develop a beautiful golden brown color and a shiny finish.
- Baking the Danishes:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit then place the filled danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden. Let them cool slightly before serving.
One of my favorite parts is how the strawberries soften perfectly inside the filling while the pastry crisps up. I once made these for a brunch where my kids got to help shape the hearts which made the whole experience even sweeter and more memorable.
Flavor Boosters
In spring and summer swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries to match what is fresh in your garden or at the market. In colder months, try warming the filling with a tablespoon of orange marmalade or a pinch of cinnamon for extra cozy flavor. Adding a spoonful of lemon zest to the cream cheese can brighten the flavor and offer a nice contrast when strawberries are at their sweetest.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these danishes warm alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for an easy morning indulgence. Add a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for a pretty finish. They also make a beautiful brunch centerpiece paired with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
Creative Twists
If you do not have puff pastry, crescent roll dough can work though the texture will be softer and less flaky. Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan or lactose-intolerant friendly version. Powdered sugar can replace granulated sugar in the filling for a smoother consistency and sweeter profile.
This recipe is a perfect blend of ease and festive charm that never fails to impress. Enjoy the warm, creamy bites that bring a smile to every table.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of pastry is best for this dish?
Store-bought puff pastry offers the ideal flaky texture and ease of use, though crescent roll dough can be a substitute with a slightly different texture.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain frozen strawberries well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the pastry's texture.
- → How do I achieve the heart shape for each pastry piece?
Cut the puff pastry into squares, place the cream cheese-strawberry filling in the center, then fold and shape edges carefully to form heart shapes before baking.
- → What can I use to glaze the pastry for a shiny finish?
Beating an egg with cold water creates an egg wash that, brushed on before baking, gives a golden, shiny surface.
- → Are there vegan alternatives for the cream cheese?
Dairy-free cream cheese substitutes work well to accommodate vegan or dairy-free diets without sacrificing texture or flavor.