Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (1 brick or 250g, softened)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Fruit Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam (or similar)
- 1/2 cup strawberries (sliced)
Egg Wash (optional)
- 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water
Glaze & Garnish
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons milk (use more if needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/3 cup almond slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Arrange the racks in the middle positions of your oven and preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and slice it lengthwise down the center to create two long rectangular danishes. For smaller portions, you may slice into individual servings as desired.
- Score and Dock the Pastry: Using a sharp knife, score a 1/2 inch border around the edges of each puff pastry rectangle, being careful not to cut all the way through. Then, use a fork to poke holes (dock) in the center portions to prevent excessive puffing.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling and Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, almond extract, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly onto the centers of both puff pastry rectangles, inside the scored border.
- Add Strawberry Jam and Fresh Strawberries: Dollop the strawberry jam in the center of the cream cheese layer and gently spread with the back of a spoon. Leave some cream cheese visible around the edges as a border. Top the jam with evenly sliced fresh strawberries.
- Apply Egg Wash to Borders: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this along the puff pastry borders for a golden, glossy finish when baked. This step is optional but recommended.
- Bake the Danishes: Place the danishes on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool on the sheets for about 15 minutes. Optionally, brush with fresh strawberry jam while still warm for a shiny glaze.
- Prepare and Drizzle the Icing: Mix the powdered sugar with milk and almond extract in a small bowl until smooth, adjusting milk quantity to your desired consistency. Drizzle the icing over the cooled danishes and sprinkle almond slices evenly on top. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and spreading.
- Puff pastry should be fully thawed but still cold to handle easily without sticking or tearing.
- The egg wash is optional but creates a beautiful golden crust and shine on the pastry edges.
- You can substitute strawberry jam with raspberry or apricot jam for flavor variation.
- For a dairy-free option, use a vegan cream cheese alternative and check puff pastry ingredients accordingly.
- To make individual servings, cut the puff pastry into smaller squares before assembling.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
