Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prepare the assembled hearts in the morning and chill them until ready to bake. This saves time and keeps the filling fresh. Bake them about 12 to 16 minutes when you are ready to serve.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

You can, but thaw and drain them well to avoid soggy pastry. Toss with a little cornstarch to absorb excess juice if needed. Fresh strawberries give the best texture and color.

Do I need to blind bake the pastry?

No. These danishes bake quickly enough that blind baking is not necessary. The egg wash and proper oven heat help the pastry puff and crisp while the filling warms through.

Are these safe for kids to help make?

Absolutely. Kids can help with stirring the cream cheese, dicing strawberries with a safe knife, and brushing egg wash. Always supervise children around the oven.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. The steps are the same; just work in batches so the pastry stays cold. If you double, arrange the baking in two rounds or use two baking sheets and rotate them in the oven.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes

Description

Delightful heart-shaped danishes filled with creamy cheese and fresh strawberries, perfect for a special breakfast or family gathering.

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

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Instructions

Thaw the puff pastry sheet as per package directions.
Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add red food coloring if desired.
Prepare the strawberries by rinsing, drying, and dicing them. Pat them dry if juicy.
Unfold puff pastry on a floured surface and cut out heart shapes. Place cream cheese mix in center of each heart and top with diced strawberries.
Whisk egg with cold water and brush edges of hearts with the egg wash.
Bake for 12 to 16 minutes until golden and puffed.
Remove and cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Optionally glaze with powdered sugar or warmed jam before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, use ripe strawberries. You can substitute other fruits or add lemon zest for a twist.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American