why make this recipe
Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes are a delightful treat that combine flaky pastry with a sweet and creamy filling, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They’re fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat. Their heart shape also makes them a lovely choice for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, these danishes are easy to whip up!
how to make Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet store-bought puff pastry (thawed to package directions)
- 4 oz cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 2 tbsp white sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Red food coloring
- 1/2 cup diced strawberries
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp cold water
Directions:
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet as per package directions. Some say to thaw on the counter for 2 hours, or you can leave it to thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- For the cream cheese filling, in a bowl, mix the cream cheese, white sugar, vanilla extract, and a few drops of red food coloring until smooth.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into heart shapes using a cookie cutter or knife.
- Place a dollop of the cream cheese filling in the center of each heart and top with some diced strawberries.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to form a pocket and press gently to seal.
- For the egg wash, whisk the egg with cold water, then brush it over the tops of the danishes.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
how to serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes
These danishes are best served warm, straight from the oven. You can enjoy them plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
how to store Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at low heat until warm. They can also be frozen; just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to a month.
tips to make Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling according to your preference.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
variation
You can switch up the filling by using different fruits like blueberries or raspberries. You can also add a little chocolate or nuts for a different twist!
FAQs
Can I make these danishes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and cut the pastry ahead of time. Assemble the danishes just before baking for the best results.
What can I use instead of strawberries?
You can use any berry or fruit you like, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, if you prefer to make your own puff pastry, feel free! Just ensure it’s rolled thin enough for best results.