Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

Introduction

Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish is a delightful treat that combines the flakiness of puff pastry with a creamy filling and the sweet, tangy taste of fresh strawberries. This vegan version of a classic pastry is just as indulgent, featuring a rich dairy-free cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries for a perfect balance of flavors.

I first made these danishes when I wanted something sweet but dairy-free, and they turned out to be a huge hit. The puff pastry becomes golden and crisp, while the dairy-free cream cheese filling offers a smooth, velvety texture that complements the strawberries beautifully.

They’re surprisingly simple to make, and with just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping pastry that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for those who want a plant-based option without compromising on flavor!

Perfect for:

• Brunch gatherings
• Afternoon tea
• Vegan-friendly dessert
• Special occasions
• Strawberry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

Here’s why Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish will become your new favorite:

• Flaky and Buttery: The puff pastry gives these danishes a perfectly flaky and light texture, with layers that melt in your mouth.
• Vegan and Dairy-Free: This recipe uses plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for vegans and those avoiding dairy without sacrificing flavor.
• Creamy and Sweet Filling: The dairy-free cream cheese filling is smooth and rich, complementing the strawberries beautifully.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is simple and quick to make, using store-bought puff pastry to save time.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the strawberries and the tang of the cream cheese filling creates a harmonious combination that’s irresistible.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 8 danishes
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (vegan, thawed if frozen)
• 1 cup vegan cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)
• 1 tablespoon non-dairy milk (for brushing)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Ingredient Highlights

• Vegan Cream Cheese: The dairy-free cream cheese provides the creamy, tangy base for the filling, ensuring that these danishes are just as indulgent as the traditional version.
• Puff Pastry: A store-bought puff pastry is used to save time, but it still delivers that light, flaky texture that’s perfect for a Danish pastry.
• Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color to the danishes, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.
• Maple Syrup: A touch of maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness to the strawberries without overpowering the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Strawberries: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped strawberries and maple syrup. Stir gently to coat the strawberries in the syrup and set aside.

Assemble the Danishes:

4. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 8 squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
5. Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
6. Add the Strawberries: Spoon a few pieces of the maple-coated strawberries on top of the cream cheese filling.
7. Fold the Pastry: Gently fold the edges of the puff pastry towards the center, leaving the filling exposed in the middle. You can fold the corners into the center or leave them open for a more rustic look.
8. Brush with Non-Dairy Milk: Lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry with non-dairy milk to help the pastry brown beautifully in the oven.
9. Bake: Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
10. Cool: Allow the danishes to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish is perfect for a variety of occasions:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: These danishes make a beautiful addition to any breakfast or brunch spread, alongside coffee or fresh fruit.
• For Dessert: Serve these danishes as a light, sweet dessert after dinner or at a gathering.
• As a Snack: They make for a delicious afternoon snack with a cup of tea or hot chocolate.
• For Special Occasions: Whether for a holiday or a birthday, these danishes are an impressive treat that will wow your guests.

Additional Tips for Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

Here are some tips to ensure your Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish is perfect every time:

• Thaw the Puff Pastry: Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed if using frozen sheets, as it will be easier to work with.
• Customize the Filling: You can add a bit of lemon zest or cinnamon to the cream cheese filling for extra flavor.
• Chill the Pastry Before Baking: If your puff pastry becomes too soft while assembling, place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before baking to help it maintain its shape.
• Serve Warm: These danishes are best served warm, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two and reheated in the oven for a few minutes.

Recipe Variations for Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

Here are 10 variations you can try for Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish:

• Vegan Raspberry Cream Danish: Swap out the strawberries for fresh raspberries for a tangy twist.
• Vegan Blueberry Cream Danish: Use fresh blueberries in place of the strawberries for a slightly different flavor.
• Vegan Peach Cream Danish: Fresh peach slices make a great substitute for strawberries, giving these danishes a summery flair.
• Vegan Chocolate Strawberry Danish: Add a drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the top of the strawberries for a chocolate-strawberry flavor combination.
• Vegan Almond Cream Danish: Add a tablespoon of almond extract to the cream cheese filling for a nutty flavor.
• Vegan Mixed Berry Cream Danish: Use a mix of berries like blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a colorful, tangy filling.
• Vegan Lemon Cream Danish: Add fresh lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy twist that pairs well with the strawberries.
• Vegan Apple Cinnamon Cream Danish: Use thinly sliced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon instead of strawberries for a fall-inspired version.
• Vegan Coconut Cream Danish: Mix in a tablespoon of shredded coconut into the cream cheese filling for a tropical variation.
• Vegan Maple Pecan Cream Danish: Add chopped pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup over the cream cheese filling for a nutty, sweet version.

Freezing and Storage for Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked danishes. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish easier:

• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps evenly roll out the puff pastry.
• Baking Sheet: Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is ideal for applying non-dairy milk to the puff pastry edges.
• Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for preparing the cream cheese filling and the strawberries.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to slice the puff pastry and chop the strawberries.

Frequently Asked Questions for Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish

1. Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?
   Yes, you can use homemade puff pastry if you prefer, but store-bought puff pastry saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.
2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
   While fresh strawberries work best for this recipe, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
4. Can I add more filling?
   Feel free to add more cream cheese filling if you like, just be sure not to overfill the pastry to prevent spilling during baking.

Print

Conclusion

Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish is the perfect treat for anyone who loves a delicate, flaky pastry filled with creamy goodness and fresh fruit. This dairy-free version offers all the indulgence of the classic while catering to vegan diets, making it a delicious and inclusive option for any occasion. With their beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor, these danishes are ideal for brunch, dessert, or a special snack.

This recipe is as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat, making it perfect for everything from casual mornings to festive gatherings. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself, these Vegan Strawberry Cream Danishes are guaranteed to delight.

I’d love to see how your Vegan Strawberry Cream Danishes turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!