Tip: These delicious strawberry cream cheese danishes have approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on size and portion. They make a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. Serve them warm for the best texture, or enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea!

Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)

8 oz cream cheese (softened)

3 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 cup strawberry jam (or similar)

1/2 cup strawberries (sliced)

1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash, optional)

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons milk

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheet and slice it down the center lengthwise to form two long rectangular pieces.

Score the Pastry:
Using a sharp knife, score the puff pastry about 1/2 inch from the edges all around to create a border. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Poke the Center:
Use a fork to poke holes in the center portion of the puff pastry to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.

Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice to create the cream cheese filling.

Assemble the Danishes:
Use the back of a spoon to spread the cream cheese mixture into the center of both puff pastry rectangles, staying inside the scored border.

Add the Jam and Strawberries:
Dollop the strawberry jam into the center of the cream cheese layer, spreading it gently with the back of the spoon, leaving a border of cream cheese visible.

Top with sliced strawberries.

Egg Wash (Optional):
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water together to make an egg wash. Brush the border of the puff pastry danishes with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.

Bake:
Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the pastry is puffed.

Make the Icing:
While the danishes are cooling, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make the icing.

Finish and Serve:
Drizzle the icing over the cooled danishes, and enjoy your homemade strawberry cream cheese danishes!

Notes:
Saving Energy: These danishes bake quickly at 400°F, making them an energy-efficient treat. You can prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate the unbaked pastries until you’re ready to bake them.

Health Benefits: While these danishes are a delicious indulgence, the cream cheese provides some protein, and strawberries offer vitamins and antioxidants. However, due to the puff pastry and icing, they are best enjoyed as a special treat in moderation!