Apple Danish Pastry Recipe
Introduction:
Apple Danish Pastry is an irresistible dessert that combines the crisp, buttery layers of puff pastry with the sweet, spiced flavors of cinnamon-coated apples. This delightful pastry makes for a perfect treat to serve at a party or enjoy as a cozy afternoon snack. With its golden-brown crust, tender apple filling, and a light sugar glaze, itโs sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps to create these beautifully braided pastries that are both visually appealing and delicious. Ready in just 40 minutes, itโs an ideal choice for busy bakers and dessert lovers alike!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff Pastry Sheet | 1 sheet |
| Apple (sliced into thin wedges) | 1 medium apple |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1 teaspoon |
| Caster Sugar | 1/2 cup (+ 1 teaspoon for topping) |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Granulated Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Cold Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole Egg | 1 (whisked) |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Dessert
Diet: Eggetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200ยฐC (392ยฐF). While the oven is warming up, prepare your baking tray by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the pastry from sticking.
Step 2: Roll the Puff Pastry
Take the puff pastry sheet and place it on a flat surface. Use a rolling pin to gently flatten it, shaping it into a rectangular form. This will be the base of your Apple Danish, so ensure the edges are even. Once shaped, set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Apple Filling
In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sliced apple wedges and cook them for a few minutes until they start to soften. Once softened, stir in the cinnamon powder and caster sugar. Continue cooking for a few more seconds, allowing the apples to absorb the flavors of the sugar and spice. Remove the pan from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Pastry
Carefully arrange the cinnamon-sugar coated apple slices in the center of the puff pastry sheet. Spread them out evenly, leaving some space at the edges for the braiding.
Step 5: Make the Braids
Next, make cuts along both sides of the pastry to create strips for braiding. Using a knife or kitchen scissors, cut the pastry into equal slits (about 1-inch wide) along both longer sides of the rectangle. Now, braid the pastry by folding the strips alternately over the apples. This will create a beautiful woven effect.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the whole egg with 1 teaspoon of water to create an egg wash. Use a silicone brush to apply this mixture generously over the top of the braided pastry. This will help give the pastry a golden finish while baking. Sprinkle a teaspoon of granulated sugar on top to add a nice crunchy texture.
Step 7: Bake the Pastry
Carefully transfer the assembled pastry onto the prepared baking tray. Place it in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and puffed up.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the pastry from the oven and allow it to cool down for a few minutes. Meanwhile, mix powdered sugar and cold milk in a small bowl to form a smooth glaze.
Step 9: Serve
Once the pastry has cooled, drizzle the milk and sugar glaze over the top using a spoon. Let it sit for about 10 minutes for the glaze to set before serving.
Your homemade Apple Danish Pastry is now ready to be served. Enjoy it as a scrumptious dessert after a hearty meal like Schezwan Chicken Sizzler or Italian Pasta Sizzler, or alongside a refreshing Cinnamon Spiced Orange Iced Tea during your afternoon break.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Danish Pastry:
- Use cold puff pastry for a flakier texture when baked.
- If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the amount of sugar in the apple mixture.
- Feel free to experiment by adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
- For a richer glaze, you can use heavy cream instead of milk.
Enjoy the buttery goodness of this Apple Danish Pastry, and watch it become a favorite among your family and friends!
This recipe is a perfect way to elevate your dessert game without spending too much time in the kitchen. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this Apple Danish Pastry will surely impress anyone who takes a bite.
