Easy Strawberry Danish with Lemon Icing
Delightful pastry filled with creamy strawberries and topped with lemon icing, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Danish Pastry
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed but cold Carefully layered pastry that becomes crispy and flaky.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened Forms the luscious base of your Danish filling.
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar Adds sweetness to the cream cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest Adds a bright citrus note to the filling.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced Highlight of the pastry.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Draws out moisture from the strawberries.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch Helps maintain the consistency of the strawberry filling.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Adds a tangy zest.
- 1 large egg Used for the egg wash for a golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon water Mixed with the egg for the wash.
Lemon Icing
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted Creates a smooth glaze for the icing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Enhances the icing flavor.
- 1-2 teaspoons milk, as needed Adjusts the icing consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest Accentuates the icing’s flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate small bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and fresh lemon juice until coated.
- Unfold the cold puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface, roll it out slightly, and cut it into 8 rectangles. Score a smaller rectangle inside each one.
Assembly and Baking
- Place the pastry rectangles on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the cream cheese filling into each scored rectangle and top with the sweetened strawberries.
- Whisk the egg and water together to create an egg wash; brush the edges of the pastries.
- Bake for 17-20 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Allow to cool for 8-10 minutes.
Icing
- For icing, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over the warm Danish. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Use cold ingredients for better rise and flakiness. Customize your fruit; other berries work well. Prepare filling a day ahead for convenience.