Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes

These Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes are flaky, buttery pastries filled with a luscious cream cheese mixture and topped with sweet strawberry preserves. Shaped into adorable hearts, these danishes are perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or a special breakfast treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flaky & Buttery – Made with puff pastry for a light, crispy texture.
• Rich & Creamy Filling – Smooth cream cheese pairs perfectly with sweet strawberries.
• Easy to Make – Uses store-bought puff pastry for a quick and simple recipe.
• Beautiful Heart Shape – A festive and romantic pastry for special occasions.
• Great for Breakfast or Dessert – Serve with coffee in the morning or as an after-dinner treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Danish Pastry:

• Puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• Egg (for egg wash)
• Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Strawberry Topping:

• Strawberry preserves or jam
• Fresh strawberries (sliced, optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Drizzle of melted white chocolate
• Fresh mint leaves

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat Oven – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut Heart Shapes – Roll out puff pastry and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out hearts.
3. Create an Indented Border – Lightly score a smaller heart inside each piece using a knife, being careful not to cut through. This helps the edges puff up while the center stays slightly depressed for the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese – In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Fill the Pastry Hearts – Spread 1-2 teaspoons of cream cheese mixture into the center of each heart.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Topping

1. Spoon Strawberry Preserves – Place a small spoonful of strawberry jam over the cream cheese filling.
2. Add Fresh Strawberries – Optional: Top with thinly sliced fresh strawberries for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Danishes

1. Apply Egg Wash – Beat an egg and brush the edges of the pastry for a golden finish.
2. Bake – Bake for 15-18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
3. Cool Slightly – Let the danishes cool for a few minutes before garnishing.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar – Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
2. Drizzle with White Chocolate – Optional: Melt white chocolate and drizzle over the top.
3. Serve Warm – Enjoy fresh from the oven with coffee or tea.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 heart danishes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Cooling Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Raspberry Danish – Use raspberry preserves instead of strawberry.
• Chocolate-Filled Danish – Add a spoonful of Nutella under the cream cheese.
• Almond Danish – Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free puff pastry.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the air fryer for 3 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked pastries and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry gives an even flakier texture.

Do I have to use heart shapes?

No, you can make round, square, or oval danishes if preferred.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?

Yes! Just chop and lightly cook fresh strawberries with sugar until they soften.

How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure not to overload with filling, and bake until golden brown.

Can I add other flavors to the cream cheese?

Yes! Try adding almond extract, cinnamon, or citrus zest for extra flavor.

What’s the best way to transport these for a party?

Let them cool completely, then arrange in a box with parchment paper between layers.

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes! Just thaw it according to the package instructions before using.

How do I get a glossy finish on the danishes?

Brush with egg wash before baking for a golden, shiny crust.

Can I use different jam flavors?

Yes! Apricot, blueberry, or cherry jam all work well.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. With flaky puff pastry, creamy filling, and sweet strawberry topping, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious. Try them today and impress your loved ones with this beautiful homemade pastry!

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