Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry
- 1 cup (240ml) of apricot preserves
- 1/2 cup (120g) of cream cheese
- 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) of water (for egg wash)
- Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
- Fresh apricots, sliced (optional for garnish)
- Mint leaves (optional for garnish)
Delectable Apricot Danish Recipe
Welcome to an adventure into the sweet and buttery kingdom of pastries with these delightful Apricot Danishes. Aficionados of fine pastries will find themselves enchanted by the perfect marriage of golden, flaky dough and the luscious sweetness of apricots. This recipe transforms fresh or canned apricots into a succulent filling, sitting majestically atop layers of buttery goodness. Whether for a lavish weekend brunch or as a tempting dessert, this Apricot Danish is a treat to relish and to share with dear ones. Let’s embark on this irresistible pastry journey!
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry Brush
- Mixing Bowls
- Kneading Surface
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Sharp Knife or Pastry Cutter
- Wire Rack
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 2 hours
Ingredients
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 10g (2 tsp) salt
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 250ml (1 cup) cold milk
- 2 large eggs, divided (1 for dough, 1 for egg wash)
- 200g (7 oz) fresh or canned apricots, pitted and sliced
- 50g (1/4 cup) apricot jam
- 5g (1 tsp) vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, combine one egg with the cold milk, then gradually incorporate it into the flour mixture, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Apricot Filling
While the dough rests, prepare the apricot filling. In a bowl, mix the sliced apricots with the apricot jam and vanilla extract until coated. If using canned apricots, be sure to drain them thoroughly. Set aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to approximately 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick. Cut the dough into rectangles, approximately 12×8 cm (5×3 inches).
Step 4: Shape and Fill the Danishes
Place a spoonful of the apricot mixture in the center of each rectangle. Fold the corners of the dough towards the center, overlapping slightly, to fully encase the filling. Secure with a little pressure. Arrange the Danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash
Beat the remaining egg and use a pastry brush to apply it over the tops and edges of each Danish. This will ensure a shiny, golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the Danishes for 15-20 minutes, until they are puffed and golden brown, watching closely toward the end of the baking time.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer the baked Danishes to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delectable fusion of buttery pastry and sweet, succulent apricot filling.
Conclusion
Bravo! You’ve now mastered the art of creating exquisite Apricot Danishes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Indulge in the fruits of your labor and revel in the delightful flavors and textures of this classic pastry. Embark on crafting these exquisite Apricot Danishes! The charming combination of flaky pastry and sweet apricots is sure to captivate anyone who takes a bite. These pastries offer a wonderful versatility, allowing you to change fillings with the seasons or to suit your own taste. Share them with friends over coffee, or enjoy them yourself as a luxurious, homemade treat. Baking, as always, is not just about the end result, but about the joy of the process and the pleasure of savoring handmade indulgences. Enjoy every bite and every moment with these delicious Apricot Danishes!
For more inspiration on delightful pastries and to explore a variety of fillings, check out our Seasonal Fillings guide. Or, if you’re looking to perfect your puff pastry technique, our Puff Pastry Tips article is a treasure trove of information. Remember, the beauty of these danishes is that they can be customized to your liking, so feel free to experiment and make them your own!
