Strawberry Breakfast Pastry: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Strawberry Breakfast Pastry: the mere mention of it conjures images of flaky, golden crusts bursting with sweet, juicy strawberries, doesn’t it? I know I’m instantly transported to a sun-drenched patio, a warm cup of coffee in hand, ready to savor each delicious bite. This isn’t just a breakfast treat; it’s a little slice of happiness, perfect for starting your day or enjoying as a delightful afternoon indulgence.

Pastries, in general, have a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations. While the exact origins of the Strawberry Breakfast Pastry are a bit more modern, the concept of combining fruit and pastry dough is timeless. Think of the classic fruit tarts and pies that have graced tables for centuries! This particular iteration, however, often evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia, perhaps reminding you of a special bakery or a cherished family recipe.

But what is it about this pastry that makes it so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures: the crisp, buttery layers of the pastry contrasting beautifully with the soft, sweet strawberries. The slight tang of the fruit balances the richness of the dough, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s incredibly convenient! Whether you’re baking a large batch for a brunch gathering or simply whipping up a quick treat for yourself, the Strawberry Breakfast Pastry is surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to bake your own little slice of happiness?

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) (226g) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• For the Strawberry Filling:
• 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Glaze (Optional):
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Making the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. This ensures that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough, which is crucial for flavor development.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be in small pieces, about the size of peas. This is important because the small pieces of butter will create flaky layers in the pastry as they melt during baking. If you’re using your fingertips, work quickly to prevent the butter from melting too much.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this will develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough pastry. The dough should be slightly shaggy but not sticky.
4. Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently form it into a disk, about 1 inch thick. Wrap the disk tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling period is essential for relaxing the gluten and allowing the butter to firm up, which will result in a flakier pastry.

Preparing the Strawberry Filling:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently toss to coat the strawberries evenly. The cornstarch will help to thicken the filling as it bakes, preventing it from becoming too runny. The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
2. Let it Sit: Let the strawberry mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release some of their juices. This will help to create a more flavorful and concentrated filling.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling:

1. Cream Together: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps from forming.
2. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside.

Assembling the Pastries:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. The dough should be about 1/8 inch thick. Work quickly to prevent the dough from warming up too much. If the dough becomes too sticky, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes to chill.
3. Cut the Dough: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal rectangles.
4. Add Cream Cheese Filling: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each rectangle, spreading it out slightly but leaving a border around the edges.
5. Add Strawberry Filling: Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the strawberry filling over the cream cheese filling. Again, leave a border around the edges.
6. Fold and Seal: Fold one side of each rectangle over the filling to create a pastry. Press the edges firmly to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure a tight seal. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
7. Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg. This will give them a golden-brown color and a shiny finish.
8. Bake: Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning.
9. Cool: Let the pastries cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Glaze (Optional):

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the pastries but thin enough to drizzle easily.
2. Drizzle: Once the pastries are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the tops.

Tips for Success:

• Keep the Butter Cold: This is the most important tip for making flaky pastry. Cold butter creates steam as it bakes, which separates the layers of dough.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough pastry. Mix just until the dough comes together.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, which will result in a flakier pastry.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will give you the best flavor. If you must use frozen strawberries, thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using them in the filling.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add more sugar to the strawberry mixture.
• Get Creative with the Filling: Feel free to experiment with other fillings, such as blueberries, raspberries, or apples.
• Storage: Store the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Variations:

• Different Fruits: Substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You can also use sliced peaches, apples, or pears. Adjust the sugar amount depending on the sweetness of the fruit.
• Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a chocolatey twist.
• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, on top of the pastries before baking for added texture and flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the strawberry filling for a warm, comforting flavor.
• Savory Option: For a savory version, omit the sugar from the dough and filling. Fill the pastries with cheese, ham, and vegetables.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious strawberry breakfast pastries! They’re perfect for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or just a sweet treat any time of day.

Conclusion:

This Strawberry Breakfast Pastry recipe isn’t just another breakfast option; it’s a guaranteed morning mood booster! The combination of flaky, golden pastry, sweet and tangy strawberry filling, and that delicate glaze is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of treat that makes you feel like you’re indulging in something truly special, even on a regular weekday. Trust me, the aroma alone wafting from your oven will have everyone in your house scrambling to the kitchen.

But beyond the deliciousness, what makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Looking for a quick and easy breakfast? This pastry fits the bill. Want to impress guests with a homemade brunch offering? This pastry will steal the show. Need a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon coffee? You guessed it – this pastry is perfect.

And the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste. For a richer flavor, try adding a touch of almond extract to the filling. If you’re a fan of cream cheese, a thin layer spread beneath the strawberry mixture adds a delightful tanginess. Or, for a more decadent experience, drizzle melted white chocolate over the glaze.

Serving Suggestions:

* Enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
* Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a classic breakfast combination.
* Serve it as part of a larger brunch spread, alongside savory options like quiche or frittatas.
* Cut it into smaller squares and serve as a delightful dessert at your next gathering.
* For a portable option, wrap individual pastries in parchment paper for a grab-and-go breakfast.

Variations to Explore:

* Berry Bonanza: Substitute the strawberries with a mix of your favorite berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
* Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a bright and zesty flavor.
* Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the glaze for added texture and flavor.
* Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glaze for a rich and decadent treat.
* Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm and comforting flavor.

I truly believe that this Strawberry Breakfast Pastry recipe is a winner. It’s easy to follow, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers exceptional results every time. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a breakfast masterpiece!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of biting into a warm, flaky, and strawberry-filled pastry. Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations? Did you make any adjustments to the recipe? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy baking!