If you’re craving a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery layers with the sweet, tangy burst of fresh berries, you’re going to love this Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors that’s simple enough for a weekday indulgence or a weekend brunch favorite. With vibrant strawberries and a luscious vegan glaze, these danishes are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them an irresistibly charming pastry everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a key role, from the flaky puff pastry base to the luscious strawberry filling and the gentle sweetness of the vegan icing, creating a harmonious balance in every bite.
- Puff pastry sheet: Make sure it’s vegan to keep this danish plant-based and irresistibly flaky.
- Melted coconut oil or vegan butter: Brushing this ensures a golden, crisp finish with a subtle richness.
- Fresh strawberries: Chopped for vibrant color and fresh, juicy flavor that’s the star of the filling.
- Sugar or sweetener of choice: Just enough sweetness to enhance the strawberries without overpowering.
- Cornstarch: A natural thickener that gives the filling its perfect jam-like texture.
- Water: Helps the cornstarch gel and bring the strawberry mixture together.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness with a little zing.
- Vanilla extract (two parts): One for the filling, one for the icing, delivering warm, cozy undertones.
- Powdered sugar: The base of the glaze that adds a subtle sweetness on top.
- Non-dairy milk: A splash in the icing to achieve that perfect drizzle consistency—almond, oat, or soy all work beautifully.
How to Make Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
Start by combining the fresh strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat this mixture gently over medium heat while stirring it occasionally. You’ll notice it beginning to bubble and thicken—it’s turning into the perfect, glossy filling that’s bursting with fruity goodness. This step takes about 5 to 7 minutes, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla and Let It Cool
Once thickened, remove your mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The warm vanilla aroma adds such depth to this filling. Let this mixture cool a bit while you get ready to handle the pastry. Cooling helps it set nicely so it won’t seep out when baked.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this keeps your danishes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry sheet and cut it into four equal pieces. Precision here ensures even baking and beautiful presentation.
Step 4: Brush and Fill the Pastry
Brush the edges of each piece with melted coconut oil or vegan butter—this is the secret behind getting that golden, crisp edge everyone swoons over. Then scoop a generous dollop of your strawberry filling into the center of each square. The filling should stay put and look inviting as the star of your danish.
Step 5: Fold and Shape the Danishes
Fold the corners of each pastry square toward the center, forming a kind of pocket around the filling. You can leave the centers open or fold the sides a bit more for a cozier look. Once shaped, brush the tops with a bit more melted coconut oil for that extra shine and golden glow when they bake.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the prepared danishes on your parchment-lined baking sheet and slide them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the puff pastry is crisp, golden, and beautifully puffed up. The smell at this point will make waiting so worth it!
Step 7: Make the Vegan Icing (Optional)
While your danishes are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract to create a silky icing. Adjust the amount of milk until it reaches a smooth, drizzle-friendly consistency. This optional step brings a soft sweetness and lovely finish to your pastry masterpiece.
Step 8: Cool and Drizzle
Once the danishes come out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then generously drizzle the vegan icing over each one. This glaze adds an elegant touch that pairs perfectly with the fresh strawberry filling.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Creation
Serve these warm or at room temperature and savor the divine experience of flaky puff pastry with the fresh, fruity filling and sweet glaze. This Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite, whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself!
How to Serve Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your danishes effortlessly. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh strawberry slices placed delicately on top. A sprinkle of finely chopped mint leaves can add a refreshing contrast and visual pop that makes these pastries irresistible on any table.
Side Dishes
Pair these danishes with a simple bowl of vegan yogurt or a cup of your favorite plant-based coffee drink to round out your brunch or breakfast spread. Fresh fruit salad or a handful of toasted nuts on the side also complement the sweetness and texture, making the meal feel complete and thoughtfully balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe on colorful plates or rustic wooden boards to add charm and personality. Accompany them with small jars of homemade jam or vegan cream cheese spreads for an interactive touch. For gatherings, arrange them in a circular pattern garnished with edible flowers for a wow-worthy presentation that will impress every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store your danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the pastry’s flaky texture intact while preserving the fresh strawberry flavor. Just avoid refrigerating them, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Freeze the unbaked assembled danishes on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen—you’ll just need to add a bit extra time in the oven. This makes your Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe wonderfully convenient for unexpected guests or busy mornings.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers fresh, reheat danishes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps refresh the crispness of the puff pastry while warming the filling without drying anything out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the pastry chewy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking the filling so it doesn’t become too watery, and you might need to cook it a little longer to reduce the moisture.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch in the filling?
You can substitute arrowroot powder or tapioca starch in equal amounts. Both work well as thickening agents and maintain the glossy texture of the strawberry filling.
Can I make the danishes gluten-free?
Yes, by choosing a certified gluten-free puff pastry, you can easily adapt this recipe. Just be mindful that gluten-free puff pastry may behave slightly differently when baking, so keep an eye on the oven time.
How do I know when the danishes are done baking?
They are ready once the pastry has puffed up, turned a deep golden brown, and feels crisp to the touch. You may also notice the strawberry filling bubbling at the edges, which is a delicious sign.
Is the vegan icing necessary?
The vegan icing is totally optional but adds a beautiful finishing touch of sweetness and elegance. If you prefer, you can enjoy the danishes without it or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top instead.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe brings together the joy of fresh strawberries and irresistible puff pastry with comforting, plant-based simplicity. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful everyday treat, it’s sure to brighten your kitchen and your mood. Give it a try, and watch how quickly these danishes become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delight in these Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish pastries that combine flaky vegan puff pastry with a luscious homemade strawberry filling. Finished with a light vegan icing drizzle, these danishes are perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack and are entirely plant-based.
Ingredients
Strawberry Filling
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (ensure it’s vegan)
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or vegan butter (for brushing)
Vegan Icing (Optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons non-dairy milk (almond, oat, or soy milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Vanilla and Cool: Remove the filling from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool while you prepare the puff pastry.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 4 equal squares or rectangles.
- Brush Pastry Edges: Brush the edges of each pastry square with melted coconut oil or vegan butter to help seal the folds and add a golden finish.
- Assemble Danishes: Spoon a generous amount of the cooled strawberry filling into the center of each pastry square.
- Fold Pastry Corners: Fold the corners of the pastry squares towards the center to form a pocket around the filling. Keep the center open or fold sides in more tightly if preferred.
- Brush Pastry Surface: Brush the entire folded pastry with additional melted coconut oil or vegan butter to ensure a beautifully golden crust.
- Bake the Danishes: Place the prepared danishes on the baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Prepare Vegan Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baked danishes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly to prevent the icing from melting off.
- Drizzle Icing: Drizzle the prepared vegan icing over the top of each danish for a sweet finishing touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the danishes warm or at room temperature, enjoying the flaky, fruity, and indulgent vegan treat.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry you use is certified vegan, as some brands contain butter.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with other berries or stone fruits for variation.
- The filling thickens as it cools; if it becomes too thick, stir in a little water.
- For a gluten-free version, seek gluten-free puff pastry or make your own.
- The vegan icing is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and visual appeal.
