Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish is a sweet treat that brings together flaky pastry, smooth vegan cream, and fresh, juicy strawberries. It’s a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a little bit of homemade charm and lots of heart. The golden layers of the Danish pastry give such a lovely crunch, while the strawberry filling adds a bright pop of color and flavor.
I love making these Danish treats because they’re surprisingly simple to put together, yet they feel special and thoughtful. What’s even better is that they’re completely vegan, so everyone can enjoy these delicious desserts without missing out. My favorite trick is to add a little sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving—it makes them look even more inviting and adds a touch of sweetness.
When I serve these Vegan Strawberry Cream Danishes, I like to pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They’re great for sharing with someone you care about, whether it’s for a cozy breakfast or a light dessert after dinner. Every bite feels like a little hug, and I think that’s why these pastries are such a lovely way to spread some Valentine’s Day love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegan Puff Pastry: This is the base of your Danish, giving it that flaky, buttery texture. If you can’t find vegan puff pastry, try making your own or use vegan crescent roll dough for a quicker fix.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet, juicy flavor. Frozen berries can work too—just thaw and drain them well before use to avoid soggy pastry.
Vegan Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and mild tang. I prefer store-bought for convenience, but homemade versions made from soaked cashews blend well too. You can swap for coconut cream if you want a subtler flavor.
Cornstarch: This thickens the strawberry filling, keeping it from making the pastry soggy. You can use arrowroot or tapioca starch as a good alternative.
How Do You Get the Puff Pastry Perfectly Flaky and Golden?
The key to great puff pastry is keeping everything cool. Warm pastry loses its layers and won’t rise properly.
- Keep your puff pastry chilled until just before rolling it out.
- Work on a cool surface with minimal handling to avoid warming the dough.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the dough to keep edges neat and help it rise evenly.
- Egg wash is not used here because it’s vegan, but brushing with a little plant-based milk can help the edges brown.
- Bake immediately after assembling so the pastry doesn’t get soggy from the filling.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – A flat tray to bake your danishes evenly without sticking.
- Parchment paper – Keeps pastries from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Small saucepan – For gently cooking the strawberry filling to thicken it perfectly.
- Mixing bowl – To blend your vegan cream cheese with sugar and vanilla smoothly.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – Helps you cut the puff pastry neatly into rectangles without tearing.
- Pastry brush – Optional but helpful to lightly brush plant milk on pastry edges for a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries to mix up the fruity flavor and color.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the cream cheese for a warm, cozy twist.
- Try using vegan mascarpone or coconut yogurt in place of cream cheese for a milder, creamier filling.
- Top with chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for extra crunch and texture.
Vegan Strawberry Cream Danish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pastry & Filling:
- 1 package (about 1 sheet) vegan puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup vegan cream cheese (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Vegan whipped cream (store-bought or homemade), for topping
- Strawberry glaze or syrup (prepare or store-bought), for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vegan strawberry cream danish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. Cooling time may add another 10 minutes before topping and serving. Overall, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Strawberry Filling:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir continuously and cook until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a mixing bowl, beat together the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Danishes:
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into rectangles about 4×5 inches. On each rectangle, spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center, leaving a border around the edges. Add a spoonful of the cooled strawberry filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
Gently fold the edges over the filling, leaving the center open, and press lightly to seal the edges if needed.
4. Bake the Danishes:
Place the assembled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes or until golden and puffed. Remove and let cool slightly.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
Dust the danishes with powdered sugar. Add a dollop of vegan whipped cream on each and drizzle with strawberry glaze or syrup for a pretty, sweet finish.
6. Serve:
Enjoy these danishes warm or at room temperature — perfect for a lovely Valentine’s treat!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Filling?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking the filling to avoid a soggy pastry.
How Should I Store Leftover Danishes?
Store leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the pastry flaky before serving.
Can I Make the Danish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the danishes and refrigerate them unbaked for a few hours, then bake right before serving for the freshest taste and best puff.
What Can I Use Instead of Vegan Cream Cheese?
You can substitute with coconut cream or a vegan mascarpone-style spread. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold the filling together nicely.
