Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked pastries – the Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes! These heart-shaped pastries are not only visually appealing but also incredibly scrumptious, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack. Originating from the rich pastry traditions of Denmark, these danishes boast a flaky, buttery crust enfolding a luscious cream cheese and strawberry filling.
What sets these danishes apart is the combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to win hearts with its simplicity and divine taste.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast (7g)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (120ml)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56g)
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (226g)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (150g)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the yeast mixture and beaten egg until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
- Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Roll out the dough and cut heart shapes using a cookie cutter. Place spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture and diced strawberries in the center of each heart.
- Fold the edges of the hearts towards the center, creating a danish shape. Let them rise for an additional 20 minutes.
- Bake the danishes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the danishes cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled danishes and serve warm. Enjoy your Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Serving Size: 6 danishes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Difficulty: Medium
Tips & Variations
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest on top before baking.
- Feel free to use other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.
- Store leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and assemble the danishes just before baking for a quick breakfast option.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Get ready to impress your loved ones with these delectable Strawberry Cream Cheese Heart Danishes. The perfect blend of fruitiness and creamy indulgence makes them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a dessert after dinner, these danishes are sure to bring joy to your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and shapes to make this recipe truly your own!
We’d love to hear about your experience making these danishes. Share your thoughts, tips, and any delicious variations you tried in the comments below. Happy baking!