Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Braids

Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Braids are the perfect way to brighten any morning or afternoon with a tender, flaky pastry filled with luscious cream cheese and fresh strawberries. This recipe combines the buttery layers of puff pastry with a sweet and creamy filling, braided to create a stunning, bakery-worthy treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re serving brunch for friends or simply craving a delicious homemade pastry, these danish braids will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic behind Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Braids lies in the harmony of textures and flavors. Puff pastry sheets provide an ultra-flaky, buttery base that puffs up beautifully in the oven, creating those irresistible layers we all love. The cream cheese filling is smooth, slightly tangy, and sweetened just enough to complement the natural brightness of fresh strawberries. Braiding the pastry not only looks impressive but ensures every bite has a perfect balance of filling and crisp pastry. The egg wash gives the braid a gorgeous golden sheen, while a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a final touch of elegance and sweetness. This combination of simple ingredients, technique, and presentation guarantees a crowd-pleaser every time.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 package of puff pastry sheets, thawed (typically 2 sheets)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Equipment & Tools

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – to prevent sticking and promote even baking
• Mixing bowl – for combining the cream cheese filling ingredients
• Spatula or spoon – for spreading the filling onto the puff pastry
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter – to create the braiding strips on the puff pastry
• Pastry brush – to apply the egg wash for that golden finish
• Cooling rack – for the danish braids to cool evenly after baking

Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Braids: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This luscious filling will be the heart of your danish braid, so take your time to get it silky and well-blended.

Step 2: Ready the Puff Pastry

Carefully unfold one thawed puff pastry sheet onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a rectangle in the center, leaving about 2 inches of border on all sides. Then, cut 1-inch strips along the left and right edges of the rectangle, stopping at the scored border. These strips will be braided over the filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Danish

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly within the rectangle you scored on the pastry. Top the cream cheese with the sliced strawberries, arranging them in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Begin braiding by folding the pastry strips over the filling, alternating sides and slightly overlapping, to create a beautiful woven pattern.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the entire braid with the beaten egg. This step is essential to achieve a shiny, golden crust that invites you to dig in. Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Finish

Once baked, transfer the danish braid to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. This final touch adds a delicate sweetness and an elegant look to your Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Braids.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add fresh mint leaves to the filling for a refreshing twist.
• Summer: Substitute strawberries with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a berry medley.
• Fall: Incorporate finely chopped toasted pecans and a dash of cinnamon into the cream cheese mixture.
• Winter: Mix in a spoonful of orange zest and swap strawberries for pomegranate seeds for a festive flair.

Pro Perspective

Professional bakers often emphasize the importance of keeping the puff pastry cold until just before baking to maintain its flaky texture. Also, when braiding, a light touch is key; avoid pressing too hard to prevent the filling from leaking. For an extra-glossy finish, some pros recommend brushing the braid with a mixture of egg yolk and a little cream instead of just egg. Finally, using ripe but firm strawberries ensures they hold their shape during baking without turning mushy.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftover Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Braids in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the braid in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries work best because they retain their shape and texture during baking. If you only have frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the pastry soggy.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

You can use mascarpone or a thick ricotta cheese as alternatives. Both provide a creamy texture but slightly different flavor profiles. Just make sure to adjust the sugar to taste.

Can I prepare these danish braids ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the braids and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 12 hours before baking. Just apply the egg wash right before placing them in the oven for the best browning.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?

Ensure your filling isn’t too wet and avoid overcrowding the strawberries. Also, baking at the right temperature helps the pastry puff and crisp properly. Using parchment paper and a hot oven is key.

Cook This Next

• For another irresistible berry treat, try the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls.
• If you love flaky, cinnamon-spiced pastries, don’t miss the Apple Cinnamon Rolls.
• For a delicate, airy dessert to pair with your danish, the Japanese Cotton Cheesecake is a must-try.

See You at the Table

Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish Braids are more than just a pastry – they’re a celebration of fresh flavors and flaky textures perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with morning coffee, an afternoon tea, or as a sweet ending to a weekend brunch, these braids bring warmth and joy to the table. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bake your way to a delightful treat everyone will love. Happy baking!

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