There is something utterly irresistible about the flaky layers of a perfectly baked danish paired with the vibrant, sweet burst of fresh strawberries. If you’re looking for a delightful treat that feels special yet comes together without hassle, this Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s beautifully simple to make, entirely plant-based, and guarantees a triumphant mix of buttery puff pastry and luscious strawberry filling that will brighten any morning or afternoon snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in making your vegan danish delicious—from the flaky puff pastry to the luscious strawberry filling and that irresistible vegan icing on top.
- Puff pastry sheet: Make sure it’s vegan to keep the recipe plant-based; this gives the danish its classic buttery flakiness.
- Melted coconut oil or vegan butter: Used for brushing, it helps achieve that gorgeous golden finish and adds subtle richness.
- Fresh strawberries: Chopped for a bright, fresh flavor that’s the star of the filling.
- Sugar or sweetener of choice: Balances the natural tartness of strawberries and helps thicken the filling.
- Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the strawberry mixture to the perfect jam-like consistency.
- Water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch and meld ingredients smoothly.
- Lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity, enhancing the berry flavor and keeping the filling fresh.
- Vanilla extract: A little magic that deepens flavor both in the filling and the icing.
- Powdered sugar: The base of the vegan icing, providing sweet, smooth topping for finishing.
- Non-dairy milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk all work wonderfully to create the right icing texture.
How to Make Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
Start by combining your chopped fresh strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As it warms, it will bubble and thicken beautifully, transforming into a luscious filling within 5 to 7 minutes. Once thick and glossy, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow this vibrant filling to cool as you move on to the pastry prep.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your vegan puff pastry just enough to smooth it and create an even thickness. Then cut the pastry into four equal squares or rectangles—these will form the base of each danish.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
Brush the edges of each pastry square with melted coconut oil or vegan butter. This helps to seal the folds and adds golden color during baking. Spoon a generous amount of the strawberry filling into the center of each square. Then, fold the corners toward the center to create a little pocket that cradles the filling. You can leave the center open for that classic look or fold the sides in for a more enclosed pastry. Brush the folded parts once again with melted coconut oil for that perfect golden glow.
Step 4: Bake Your Danishes
Place the prepared danishes on the lined baking sheet and slide them into your preheated oven. Baking takes about 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is beautifully puffed, golden, and crisp. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly, giving you the perfect sign that your danishes are nearly ready.
Step 5: Make the Vegan Icing and Finish
While the danishes bake, whisk together powdered sugar, your choice of non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust with more milk if needed to get a drizzle-friendly consistency. Once the danishes have cooled slightly, generously drizzle the vegan icing over the top to add a sweet, glossy finishing touch that balances the tangy strawberry filling perfectly.
How to Serve Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of charm and texture, sprinkle freshly chopped mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar. You can also place a few fresh strawberry slices or a handful of toasted sliced almonds on top to make every bite even more special.
Side Dishes
This salivating Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, herbal tea, or a glass of chilled almond milk. If you want to keep it light but more filling, serve alongside a fresh, crisp fruit salad or some dairy-free yogurt topped with granola for a complete breakfast or brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your danishes on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant ceramic plate to highlight their colors and flaky texture. Consider arranging them with fresh strawberry halves and edible flowers for a stunning, Instagram-worthy display that invites everyone to dig in right away.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer freshness, refrigeration is best, where they will keep well for 2 to 3 days. The danishes may lose a bit of their crispness but will still taste wonderful.
Freezing
These danishes freeze beautifully! After baking and cooling completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to one month, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat anytime.
Reheating
To bring your danishes back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 7 to 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe?
Yes, frozen strawberries can work well. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking the filling to avoid excess moisture.
Is puff pastry always vegan?
Not always. Many store-bought puff pastries contain butter, so look specifically for vegan-labeled puff pastry or check the ingredient list to be sure.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can if you find a gluten-free vegan puff pastry. Making puff pastry gluten-free at home is tricky, so a store-bought gluten-free vegan option is your best bet.
What are good alternatives to coconut oil or vegan butter for brushing?
Light olive oil or a neutral-tasting oil like avocado oil can work, but coconut oil or vegan butter gives the best flavor and color.
Can I prepare the strawberry filling in advance?
Absolutely! Making the filling a day ahead and storing it in the fridge can save you time and actually enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a freshly baked, fruity, and flaky danish that happens to be entirely plant-based and easy to prepare. This Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe offers all the joy and indulgence of a classic Danish with the wholesome goodness of vegan ingredients. Whether you’re impressing friends or treating yourself, it’s a recipe you’ll want in your baking repertoire again and again. Go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Easy Vegan Strawberry Danish recipe delivers a flaky, buttery puff pastry filled with a luscious strawberry compote, topped with a smooth vegan icing. Perfect for a quick breakfast or an indulgent snack, these danishes combine simple ingredients with straightforward steps to produce an impressive bakery-style treat without any animal products.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry and Topping
- 1 sheet puff pastry (ensure it’s vegan)
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or vegan butter (for brushing)
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
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 thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes. This creates a thick, glossy filling.
- Cool Filling: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool to room temperature while preparing the pastry.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Roll and Cut Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth any folds. Cut into 4 equal squares or rectangles depending on the size you prefer.
- Brush Puff Pastry Edges: Brush the edges of each pastry square lightly with melted coconut oil or vegan butter to help with browning and to seal the corners later.
- Assemble Danishes: Spoon a generous amount of the cooled strawberry filling into the center of each pastry square for an even distribution of fruit and flavor.
- Fold Pastry Corners: Gently fold the corners of each puff pastry square towards the center forming a pocket around the filling. The center can remain open or enclosed depending on your preferred style.
- Brush Folded Pastry: Brush the folded parts of the pastries again with melted coconut oil or vegan butter to achieve a golden, crisp finish after baking.
- Bake Danishes: Place the assembled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Prepare Vegan Icing (Optional): While the danishes bake, whisk together powdered sugar, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk if needed for a drizzle consistency.
- Cool and Drizzle Icing: Once baked, remove danishes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the prepared vegan icing over the tops to add a sweet finishing touch.
- Serve: Enjoy your warm or room-temperature vegan strawberry danishes as a delightful breakfast, brunch item, or sweet snack.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry you select is labeled vegan; many brands use butter or other dairy in their dough.
- The strawberry filling can be customized with other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries.
- For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar in the filling and icing to taste.
- The puff pastry should be kept cold until just before use for best puffing results.
- The vegan icing is optional but adds a lovely balance of sweetness and moisture.
