3-Ingredient Apple Danish
Crafting a bakery-worthy pastry at home has never been easier with this 3-Ingredient Apple Danish recipe. Originating from Denmark, this simple yet elegant treat brings together the sweetness of apples, the richness of puff pastry, and a touch of sugar to create a delightful dessert or snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Serve it warm with your favorite drink, a dollop of ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, and watch as it becomes a crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent treat after dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets of puff pastry – Light, flaky, and buttery, puff pastry is the perfect base for this Danish.
- 2 medium-sized apples – Peeled, cored, and quartered, they provide the natural sweetness and a soft filling.
- 1/3 cup baker’s sugar – Enhances the flavor of the apples and adds a crispy, caramelized finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and quarter the apples.
- Place them in a saucepan with enough water to cover and simmer over medium heat for about 4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Remove the apples from the heat, stir in the 1/3 cup of sugar, and let the mixture cool.
3. Cut the Pastry
- Take each sheet of puff pastry and cut it in half.
- Then, slice each half into three rectangles, yielding a total of six pieces per sheet.
4. Assemble the Danishes
- Take one pastry rectangle and dampen the edges with a bit of water.
- Spoon a portion of the cooled apple mixture onto the center of the rectangle.
- Place another pastry rectangle on top, but this time, cut slits into it for ventilation and visual appeal.
- Press the edges together firmly to seal, using a fork if desired for a decorative crimp.
- Repeat this process to create six apple-filled pastry parcels.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
- Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking tray, ensuring there’s space between each.
- Sprinkle the tops lightly with additional sugar for a sweet, crispy glaze.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the Danishes puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm and Fresh: Enjoy the pastries fresh out of the oven, still warm, for the best flavor and texture.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting snack.
- Elevate the Indulgence: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover Danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture for a cozy, spiced flavor.
- Alternate Fillings: Try pears, berries, or even a dollop of jam as a substitute for apples.
- Glaze Option: Brush the baked Danishes with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness.
With its minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, this 3-Ingredient Apple Danish recipe proves that simple can still be extraordinary. It’s a versatile treat that’s sure to satisfy your pastry cravings! 🍎🥐