Introduction

These Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or brunch. Flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth, sweet cream cheese mixture and topped with fresh strawberries makes for a charming and delicious pastry anyone can enjoy.

The image shows several heart-shaped pastries arranged on a sheet of parchment paper placed on a wooden surface. Each pastry has three clear layers: a golden-brown flaky puff pastry base, a smooth white cream cheese layer spread evenly inside the heart shape, and on top, a cluster of fresh, bright red strawberry pieces coated lightly with a shiny glaze that enhances their juicy texture. The pastries have a slightly glossy finish and visible flaky edges, giving them a crisp look. The overall setting has a cozy, homemade feel with the pastries as the clear focus, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 sheet store-bought puff pastry, thawed (substitute: two sheets crescent roll dough, texture will differ)
4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature (substitute: dairy-free cream cheese for vegan/dairy-free)
2 tbsp white sugar (substitute: powdered sugar for a smoother filling)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Red food coloring (optional, a drop or two to tint filling)
1/2 cup diced strawberries (fresh recommended; if frozen, thaw and drain)
1 large egg
1 tbsp cold water

Instructions

Step 1: Thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions, usually 30–60 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add a drop of red food coloring if using, mixing to reach a soft pink hue. Fold in half of the diced strawberries if you want them inside the filling and save the rest for topping.
Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, unfold and gently roll the puff pastry to smooth creases. Use a 3–4 inch heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out hearts, yielding about four hearts from one sheet.
Step 4: Create a border for the filling by either pressing a smaller heart cutter into the center without cutting through, or score a 1/2-inch border around each heart with a knife without cutting all the way through.
Step 5: Spoon or pipe 1–2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into each heart’s center, staying within the border. Top with remaining diced strawberries, being careful not to overfill so the pastry can puff up properly.
Step 6: Whisk the egg with cold water and lightly brush the exposed pastry edges with the egg wash to achieve color and shine. Avoid getting egg wash on the filling.
Step 7: Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes on the middle rack until the pastry is golden-brown, puffed, and the filling is set. Rotate the pan halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.
Step 8: Allow the danishes to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze made with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1–2 tablespoons milk once cooled slightly.

Tips & Variations

Keep puff pastry cold until just before cutting to ensure proper puffing in the oven.
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother, silkier filling.
For a dairy-free option, substitute with vegan cream cheese and use crescent dough if desired.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or almond extract to the cream cheese filling for added flavor.

Storage

Store leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days and reheat gently in a low oven to restore crispness. These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen wrapped tightly for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows several heart-shaped pastries arranged on white parchment paper over a wooden board, with a white marbled texture softly blurred in the background. Each pastry has three clear layers: a golden-brown, flaky puff pastry base with a light, crispy texture; a smooth, white cream cheese or custard layer filling the center; and a topping of shiny, red strawberries, some halved or chopped, coated in a light glaze that adds glossiness and a rich red color. The layers are distinct and the pastries are well-defined in shape, with a soft, inviting look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works well as long as it is fully thawed before shaping. Follow package instructions for best results.

Can I prepare these danishes in advance?

You can prepare the danishes up to assembling and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Allow the pastry to come back to room temperature briefly before placing them in the oven.