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This strawberry cream cheese heart danishes recipe brings together flaky puff pastry, creamy sweetened cheese, and bright fresh strawberries in a beautiful heart shape. It’s an inviting treat that feels special enough for brunch with friends or a festive celebration yet simple enough to make on a whim.
I first made these for a family brunch and everyone loved how impressive they looked without complicated steps. My kids especially enjoyed helping me dice the strawberries and shaping the pastries.
Gather Your Ingredients
- One sheet of store bought puff pastry: thawed according to package instructions to ensure it’s pliable but cold to keep the layers flaky
- Four ounces cream cheese: at room temperature softens easily for mixing and keeps the filling smooth
- Two tablespoons white sugar: to lightly sweeten the filling without overpowering the fresh fruit
- Half a teaspoon vanilla extract: for a warm background note in the cheese layer
- Half cup diced strawberries: pick firm, ripe berries to maintain texture after baking
- One large egg combined with a tablespoon of cold water: to create an egg wash, giving the pastry a gorgeous golden shine after baking
- Red food coloring: optional but enhances the heart’s visual appeal, especially if you want a more vivid presentation
How to Make It
- Slicing and Preparing the Puff Pastry:
- Carefully unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife cut the pastry into square shapes large enough for folding into heart shapes. Keep the edges clean for sealing later.
- Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl combine the softened cream cheese with two tablespoons of sugar and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the base of your filling.
- Preparing the Strawberry Topping:
- Dice fresh strawberries into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly on the danish without making the pastry soggy. If using food coloring add a drop here and mix well to tint the filling slightly for aesthetic appeal.
- Assembling the Danishes:
- Place a spoonful of cream cheese filling onto the center of each puff pastry square, then top with a small mound of diced strawberries. Carefully fold the pastry edges to create a heart shape, pinching the seams to seal. Arrange the danishes on the parchment lined baking sheet.
- Applying the Egg Wash:
- Beat the egg with a tablespoon of cold water to form an egg wash. Using a pastry brush gently coat each pastry’s surface to help develop that beautiful golden crust as it bakes.
- Baking:
- Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes or until the danishes are puffed up and golden brown. Once baked remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
I love the contrast between the flaky puff pastry and the smooth, slightly tangy cream cheese. One memorable time my niece helped me shape the hearts and proudly handed them out to everyone at a family picnic. The smiles are unforgettable.
Additional Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To extend freshness refrigerate but allow to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to revive flakiness. For longer storage freeze the uncooked assembled danishes on a tray then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Additional Tips
Light whipped cream cheese can be used for a lower fat filling though it will be less rich. Maple syrup or honey can substitute white sugar providing a natural sweetness with nuanced flavor. Frozen strawberries can be thawed and drained if fresh are unavailable but reduce liquid to avoid soggy pastry.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm dusted lightly with powdered sugar or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. Pairing with freshly brewed coffee or tea makes these a delightful morning treat. Garnish with fresh mint leaves to elevate presentation.
Creative Twists
Danishes originated in Denmark but the style of layering and folding puff pastry has French influences. Filling sweet cheese and fruit is a classic combination seen in many Scandinavian baked goods, often made for celebrations or special mornings.
In summer swap strawberries for blueberries or peaches for vibrant seasonal flavor. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling in cooler months for warmth. Top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for extra shine and tartness in spring.
Many friends have told me this recipe quickly became a household favorite especially for weekend breakfasts. One reader shared how they made a giant danish heart by joining all squares for a showstopper at a party.
Prepare and assemble danishes as instructed but instead of baking freeze on a parchment lined tray until firm. Wrap each in plastic wrap then foil placing in a freezer safe bag. Bake from frozen adding 10 to 15 minutes to baking time at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
This recipe combines simplicity and charm to create a delicious treat perfect for special occasions or any day. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful danishes!
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of pastry is best for this dish?
Store-bought puff pastry works best as it provides a flaky, buttery texture that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
- → Can fresh strawberries be substituted with frozen ones?
Fresh strawberries are preferable for better texture and flavor, but thawed frozen strawberries can be used if fresh are unavailable.
- → How can I prevent the cream cheese from leaking during baking?
Ensure the edges of the pastry are well sealed and chilled before baking to help keep the filling contained.
- → Is there a way to make the pastry more visually appealing?
Using red food coloring in the cream cheese mixture and shaping the pastry into hearts adds an attractive, festive touch.
- → What is the ideal oven temperature for baking this pastry?
Preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) helps achieve a golden, crisp puff pastry while properly melting the filling.