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    Home » Recipes » Dessert Recipes

    Strawberry Danish

    Published: Feb 18, 2023 · Modified: Feb 18, 2025 by Karin and Ken · This post may contain affiliate links. 6 Comments

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    With a stellar combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheesecake-like filling, and bright, juicy berries, this Strawberry Danish recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again. Best of all, these quick and easy strawberry cream cheese danish are made with only 8 simple ingredients and just 30 minutes of active time.

    Overhead shot of strawberry danish on plate.

    I love the sweet, tangy flavors of a good Danish pastry. Whenever I go to a bakery or coffee shop, I always snag one. Rather than spend an arm and a leg fulfilling my sweet breakfast cravings, I decided to make my own quick and easy version at home. 

    Strawberry Danish Recipe

    This delicious recipe was inspired by my air fryer apple danish recipe. I took the basic ideas from that recipe but swapped in a storebought pie crust for the biscuits and used my favorite spring fruit to adjust for the season. I’m happy to report that it worked like a charm!

    • It’s made with only 8 easy-to-find ingredients.
    • You can serve this strawberry danish dessert for breakfast and nobody will bat an eye. 😍
    • It's full sweet fruit, tart cream cheese, and buttery pie crust for a delectable combination of flavors. 
    • You can make a whole batch in just 40 minutes!

    Ingredients & Substitutions 

    You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this recipe. A quick trip to the store (or a well-stocked pantry) is all it takes! Be sure to check out the recipe card at the end of the post for exact amounts. 

    Overhead shot of individual strawberry danish recipe ingredients on table.
    • Premade Pie Crusts - Opting for pre-made pie crust cut our prep time down significantly. No need to cut butter into flour or use your food processor — just defrost and go! Of course, you’re also welcome to use homemade pie crust if you prefer. I suggest trying our super simple recipe for 3 ingredient pie crust.
    • Frozen Strawberries - I love keeping fruit in the freezer. Not only is it usually cheaper than fresh, but it’s way easier to keep without letting it turn moldy. As a bonus, you can also get your fruit at peak ripeness, no matter the season. Feel free to use canned (in water or juice) or fresh strawberries instead and cut the maceration time to just 10-15 minutes.
    • Granulated Sugar - Adding a smidge of sugar to fresh cut berries helps to draw out their sweet juices and turn it into a delectable syrup. While granulated sugar is the most neutral flavored, you’re welcome to swap in light or dar brown sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead.
    • Vanilla Extract - For a touch of richness and complexity. You’re also welcome to use almond, coconut, lemon, maple, banana, orange, or rum extract instead for a fresh take on the classic.
    • Lemon Juice & Zest - Fresh citrus juice is always more flavorful than the bottled kind. To get the most juice from your lemons, give them a firm roll on the countertop for 10-15 seconds before cutting them open. You can also switch up your flavor profile by using lime juice & rind, orange juice & rind, lemon extract, or white wine instead. 
    • Cream Cheese - Lightly sweetened cream cheese is a classic Danish filling. You’re welcome to use Neufchatel cheese for a lighter version, or you can substitute Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese instead. You’re also welcome to use plant-based options if you prefer.
    • Whole Milk - Use buttermilk for added tang, or half-n-half or heavy whipping cream for added richness. You’re also welcome to use a creamy plant-based milk variety (e.g. oat, soy, or full-fat coconut) if you’re dairy-free.
    • Large Egg - Getting a shiny, golden exterior on your strawberry cheese danish calls for an egg wash. If eggs are a no-no, use a tablespoon or two of melted butter, whole milk, or heavy cream instead. 

    Optional Variations & Dietary Adaptations

    As much as we love this strawberry danish recipe just the way it’s written, there’s always room for you to make any customizations you prefer or require. Here are a few variations to consider:

    • Gluten-Free - Swap in your favorite GF pie crust, either store-bought or homemade.
    • Dairy-Free - Use plant-based cream cheese and use coconut cream or vegan butter as your “egg wash.”
    • Vegan - Make sure to choose a vegan pie crust and follow the dairy-free instructions listed above.
    • Swap Your Fruit - Feel free to substitute your favorite berries or stone fruit here like peaches, blueberries, boysenberries, or raspberries. You’re also welcome to mix and match to your heart’s content!
    • Drizzle - Use drizzled icing, strawberry sauce, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or melted chocolate for a decadent flourish.
    • Strawberry Jam - Use a fork to mash strawberries after they've macerated for more of a jam-like consistency.
    • Go Nuts - Add sliced or chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for some crunch to the top before baking.
    • Chocolate Cream Cheese - Add a spoonful of chocolate spread (e.g. Nutella) to the cream cheese mixture for extra oomph. You’re also welcome to swap in your favorite flavor of sweet cream cheese spread.
    • Heat - For those who like it spicy, sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper on top of each danish.
    • Cookie Cutters - change the rectangle shape into stars, circles, or hearts using cookie cutters.

    How To Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish

    This is an incredibly easy, semi-homemade recipe to make, and you'll be in and out of the kitchen very quickly. See the overview here, and check out the recipe card at the end of the post for the full instructions.

    Step 1: Macerate. Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice and let sit until juicy and syrupy.

    Overhead shot of strawberries and sugar in bowl.
    Overhead shot of macerated strawberries in bowl — they're nice and juicy.

    Step 2: Make Filling. Combine cream cheese, sugar, milk, and vanilla. 

    Overhead shot of cream cheese filling ingredients in bowl.
    Overhead shot of mixed cream cheese danish mixture in bowl.

    Step 3: Prepare Pie Crust. Roll out pie crust and cut into 12 rectangles. Then, cut a rectangle out of the center of half the larger rectangles.

    Overhead shot of pie dough rectangles on plate.
    Overhead shot of unbaked danish with cream cheese layer in the center.

    Step 4: Assemble. Place a rectangle with a "window" on top of a solid rectangle. Fill it with cream cheese and strawberries. 

    Overhead shot of unbaked strawberry danish after adding some of the strawberries on top of the cream cheese.
    Overhead shot of 6 strawberry cream cheese danishes on a baking sheet after being brushed with an egg wash.

    Step 5: Bake. Brush the rectangles with egg wash and bake until golden brown. 

    Overhead shot of baked strawberry cheesecake Danish on baking sheet.
    Overhead shot of cream cheese strawberry danish on spatula over baking sheet with more danish on the sheet below.

    Step 6: Garnish & Serve. Top with more strawberries right out of the oven. Enjoy! 

    Closeup shot of hand holding half a strawberry danish.

    Storage Instructions

    Refrigerator: Store baked danish for up to 3 days in an air-tight container.

    Freezer: These shouldn't be frozen.

    Make ahead: Assemble the danish (through step 4) up to a day in advance, then wrap and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake as instructed. 

    Serving Suggestions

    These strawberry cheesecake danish are perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea, or even dessert. We like to pair them with some coffee or tea to help cut through the sweet richness of these breakfast pastries.

    Expert Tips

    • Use cold cream cheese and butter for making the cream cheese filling, as this will ensure a smoother texture.
    • Roll your pie crusts on a flat surface with light pressure to create an even thickness throughout.
    • Be gentle. When adding in the strawberries, gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula so they don’t become mushy from over-mixing.
    • Let your danishes cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to ensure that everything is set properly.
    • Use parchment paper when baking for easy cleanup and even cooking.
    • Make sure to cut small rectangles for the window piece of each danish, as larger windows may cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
    • Evenly spread the strawberry mixture and cream cheese filling over each danish base so that all pieces cook evenly in the oven.
    • Thaw the strawberries before adding them to the mixture, as this will help ensure that they are cooked evenly.
    • Preheat your oven before rolling out and cutting the dough, so it is ready when you need it.
    • If you’re making multiple batches, be sure to chill any extra dough in between batches to ensure that it doesn’t become too warm or sticky while working with it
    • Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife for cutting your pastry.
    • Use an electric hand mixer or food processor to whip together the cream cheese filling for the best results.
    • Don’t forget the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden brown color.

    Top Tip:

    Let the strawberries sit for a least 20 minutes to fully macerate.

    FAQ

    How do I get the window effect on my danishes?

    To form the window effect, take half of the pastry shapes that you have rolled out and use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut a small rectangle out of each one. Then pair a solid rectangle with a windowed one!

    What type of crust should I use for these cream cheese strawberry danish?

    You can use store-bought pie crust or make your own. If you decide to buy a pre-made crust, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for preheating instructions and baking time

    Can I use a food processor to whip together the cream cheese filling?

    Yes! A food processor can come in handy when making this recipe. Simply combine the cream cheese, remaining sugar, milk, and vanilla in the processor and pulse until it is smooth and creamy. If you don't have a food processor you can use an electric hand mixer instead.

    If you enjoy dessert recipes like this, you may also enjoy our Brownie Ice Cream with Caramel, My Grandma's Apple Crumble, Reese's Peanut Butter Pie, Strawberry Pizza, Strawberry Granola or our Strawberry Scones recipe.

    closeup overhead shot of strawberry cream cheese danishes on a white table.

    More Strawberry Recipes

    Do you like strawberries? Here are some recipes you may also like to try.

    • Easy Strawberry Pie
      Easy Strawberry Pie
    • Strawberry Charlotte Cake
    • Air Fryer Strawberry Shortcake on a plate with a fresh strawberry.
      Air Fryer Strawberry Shortcake
    • Strawberry crisp in white bowl with ice cream beside individual serving.
      Strawberry Crisp (with Oats)

    Strawberry Danish

    Karin and Ken
    With a stellar combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheesecake-like filling, and bright, juicy berries, this Strawberry Danish recipe is one you'll turn to again and again. Best of all, these quick and easy strawberry cream cheese danish are made with only 8 simple ingredients and just 30 minutes of active time.
    5 from 3 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 30 minutes mins
    Cook Time 11 minutes mins
    Total Time 41 minutes mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Servings 6
    Calories 415 kcal

    Equipment

    • Measuring cups and spoons
    • mixing bowl
    • cutting board
    • Sharp knife
    • Pizza Cutter
    • Hand mixer
    • Rubber spatula
    • Rolling Pin
    • spoon
    • pastry brush
    • small bowl
    • rimmed baking sheet
    • Parchment paper

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 premade pie crusts
    • 1 ¼ cups frozen strawberries
    • ½ cup granulated sugar divided
    • 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • ½ cup cream cheese
    • 1 teaspoon whole milk
    • 1 large egg
    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions
     

    • Preheat your oven to the temperature directed by your store-bought pie crust.
    • In a medium sized bowl, combine the strawberries, half of the sugar, and the lemon juice. Allow the mixture to sit for 20 minutes, stirring intermittently.
    • In another medium sized bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whip together the cream cheese, remaining sugar, milk, and vanilla until it is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
    • While the strawberries sit, roll out the pie crust and divide it into 12 4x3 inch. Cut a small rectangle out of half the pieces to form a window piece. Pair one rectangle with one window to form the base of your danish.
    • Fill each danish with a spoonful of the cream cheese filling and top with a spoonful of the strawberry mixture.
    • Beat the egg in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to brush the sides of the danishes. Place the danishes on a large baking sheet and bake for 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
    • Top the danishes with more strawberry as they come out of the oven, serve, and enjoy!

    Notes

    Optional Variations:
    • Gluten-Free - Swap in your favorite GF pie crust, either store-bought or homemade.
    • Dairy-Free - Use plant-based cream cheese and use coconut cream or vegan butter as your “egg wash.”
    • Vegan - Make sure to choose a vegan pie crust and follow the dairy-free instructions listed above.
    Expert Tips:
    • Use cold cream cheese and butter for making the cream cheese filling, as this will ensure a smoother texture.
    • Roll your pie crusts on a flat surface with light pressure to create an even thickness throughout.
    • Be gentle. When adding in the strawberries, gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula so they don’t become mushy from over-mixing.
    • Let your danishes cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to ensure that everything is set properly.
    • Use parchment paper when baking for easy cleanup and even cooking.
    • Make sure to cut small rectangles for the window piece of each danish, as larger windows may cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
    • Evenly spread the strawberry mixture and cream cheese filling over each danish base so that all pieces cook evenly in the oven.
    • Thaw the strawberries before adding them to the mixture, as this will help ensure that they are cooked evenly.
    • Preheat your oven before rolling out and cutting the dough, so it is ready when you need it.
    • If you’re making multiple batches, be sure to chill any extra dough in between batches to ensure that it doesn’t become too warm or sticky while working with it
    • Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife for cutting your pastry.
    • Use an electric hand mixer or food processor to whip together the cream cheese filling for the best results.
    • Don’t forget the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden brown color. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 415kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 6gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 304mgPotassium: 142mgFiber: 2gSugar: 19gVitamin A: 305IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg
    Keyword strawberry danish
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
    overhead shot of strawberry cream cheese danish on a white plate with a pink and white gingham napkin to the side.
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    Comments

    1. Kelly says

      February 18, 2023 at 10:19 pm

      5 stars
      We should have made a double batch they disappeared that quickly and first I might add as well before everything else I was so proud my danishes were enjoyable to everyone and received compliments from everyone Thanks for making me look so good we all love your recipes Keep up the great work 💕

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 19, 2023 at 2:27 am

        I hate that when you don’t have enough. It’s always so hard to predict, how many you’ll need. I’m so happy for you everyone enjoyed your hard work. I will continue to try my best. Hopefully you’ll find some more recipes to try. Take care. Karin

    2. Brianne says

      February 18, 2023 at 10:17 pm

      5 stars
      These are terrific. Added blueberries too and we were not disappointed This is the third batch we’ve made We love this recipe and haven’t decided which fruits we’re going to use next Thanks KD for another winner

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 19, 2023 at 2:25 am

        I’m so glad you’re using different fruits. This recipe is so versatile. Keep experimenting and enjoy every bite! Thank you for taking the time to let me know. You made my day! All the best. Karin

    3. Mary says

      February 18, 2023 at 10:14 pm

      5 stars
      Love this recipe. Love your site. These strawberry danishes are wonderful. Cream cheese layer is a great addition that you don’t even need these danishes are that good without them too. Thank you Karin for another keeper ❤️❤️

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 19, 2023 at 2:22 am

        Thank you for your kind words! I’m so glad you’re enjoying this recipe. You made my day! All the best. Karin

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    We are the kitchen divas: Karin and my partner in life, Ken.

    We have been attached at the heart and hip since the first day we met, and we love to create new dishes to keep things interesting. Variety is definitely the spice of life!

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