If you’ve been dreaming of a bakery-style treat that’s both show-stopping and surprisingly approachable, this Strawberry Cream Danish is the recipe for you. With a tender, buttery dough and a luscious cream cheese filling topped with sweet strawberries, this pastry hits all the right notes—flaky, creamy, fruity, and just the right amount of indulgent. Yes, it takes a little patience (about 200 minutes total), but most of that time is hands-off, and the results are 100% worth it. Perfect for slow weekend mornings or special brunches when you want to impress without stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bakery Quality at Home: The flavor and texture rival any high-end pastry shop, but you get to enjoy it fresh from your oven.
Elegant Yet Easy: Don’t let the gorgeous swirl and glossy finish intimidate you—this recipe breaks it down step-by-step.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself, these danishes fit the bill beautifully.
Made with Simple Ingredients: No fancy tools or hard-to-find items, just everyday ingredients that come together like magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for a soft, structured dough.
Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the dough and bring out the natural strawberry flavor.
Active Dry Yeast: Essential for that puffed, airy danish texture.
Whole Milk: Adds richness and helps activate the yeast.
Eggs: For structure and a golden color.
Unsalted Butter: Used both in the dough and for laminating—don’t skimp, this is key to the flaky layers.
Salt: Balances out the sweetness.
Cream Cheese: Smooth and tangy, it’s the dreamy center of each danish.
Powdered Sugar: For sweetening the cream cheese and dusting the finished product.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of warm flavor in the filling.
Fresh Strawberries: Juicy and bright, they bring the fruitiness to the forefront.
Egg Wash (egg + water): For that gorgeous, shiny finish.

Variations

Berry Blend: Swap in raspberries or blueberries, or use a mix for a colorful twist.
Lemon Zest: Add a little zest to the cream cheese filling for a subtle citrus note.
Glaze It: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze for extra sweetness and shine.
Mini Danishes: Make smaller versions for a bite-sized dessert tray or brunch buffet.
Jam Center: If you’re out of fresh strawberries, a good quality strawberry jam works beautifully.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Danish

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by activating your yeast in warm milk. In a stand mixer or by hand, mix flour, sugar, salt, eggs, and the milk-yeast mixture into a soft dough. Knead until smooth, then cover and let it rise for about 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Butter Block and Lamination

Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread cold, pliable butter over two-thirds of the surface. Fold the dough like a letter (business fold), then chill it for 30 minutes. Repeat this rolling, folding, and chilling process two more times to build those irresistible flaky layers.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While your dough chills, mix the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and spreadable. Slice your strawberries and set them aside.

Step 4: Shape the Danishes

Roll the dough out again and cut into squares or circles. Spoon a dollop of cream cheese filling into the center, then gently press a few strawberry slices on top. Fold the corners in if you like a traditional pinwheel shape or leave them open for a more rustic look.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Let the shaped pastries rise for another 30-45 minutes. Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 18–22 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Keep Everything Cold: Cold dough and butter are crucial for flakiness. Don’t rush the chilling steps.
Use High-Quality Butter: This isn’t the time for bargain butter—better butter equals better flavor and layers.
Don’t Overfill: A modest scoop of filling is perfect. Too much and it’ll leak out during baking.
Chill Before Baking: If your dough gets too warm while shaping, pop the pastries back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.

How to Serve

These danishes shine on a brunch table alongside fresh fruit, coffee, or a mimosa. You can also serve them as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Want a cozy afternoon treat? Pair with a warm cup of tea or your favorite latte.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just know that the texture is best on day one.

Freezing

You can freeze baked danishes (without glaze) for up to 1 month. Let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.

Reheating

Warm them in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes, or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked magic.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough up to the first rise, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Finish the lamination and shaping the next day.

Can I use puff pastry instead of making the dough?
Yes, for a quick version, store-bought puff pastry works great. Just keep in mind it won’t have quite the same flavor or richness as homemade dough.

How do I keep the strawberries from getting soggy?
Use firm, ripe strawberries and pat them dry with a paper towel before placing them on the filling. This helps reduce excess moisture.

Can I use a different filling?
Definitely! Try Nutella, lemon curd, or even a sweetened ricotta for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cream Danish is the kind of recipe that transforms a simple morning into something truly special. It’s a beautiful balance of sweet, creamy, and buttery flavors that feels like a treat from your favorite bakery—but made with your own hands. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect reason to roll up your sleeves and bake, this is it. Give it a try and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new weekend tradition!

Strawberry Cream Danish Recipe