Homemade Glazed Danish Pastries

 

“Homemade Glazed Danish Pastries: A Sweet Delight”

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 250ml warm milk
  • 50g sugar
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 250g cold unsalted butter, sliced
• For the Filling:
  • 200g cream cheese
  • 50g sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Glaze:
  • 100g powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Dough Preparation

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and remaining sugar.
3. Incorporate Butter:
   • Add cold butter slices to the flour mixture and mix lightly with your hands to coat the butter in flour. The butter should remain in large chunks.
4. Add Yeast Mixture:
   • Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough just comes together; it will be sticky.
5. First Fold:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a rectangle. Fold it into thirds, like folding a letter. Rotate 90 degrees and fold again. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
6. Repeat Folds:
   • Perform two more folds, chilling the dough for 30 minutes between each fold.

Filling and Shaping

1. Prepare Filling:
   • Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Roll Out Dough:
   • Roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
3. Shape Pastries:
   • Cut the dough into squares or rectangles. Fold the corners or sides towards the center over the filling.
4. Proofing:
   • Place shaped pastries on a baking sheet, cover lightly, and let rise in a warm place until puffy, about 45 minutes.

Baking and Glazing

1. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the pastries for 15-20 minutes until golden and flaky.
2. Prepare Glaze:
   • Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth icing.
3. Glaze Pastries:
   • Brush or drizzle the glaze over warm pastries.

Conclusion

Enjoy your homemade Danish pastries as a luxurious breakfast or a sweet snack. The creamy filling and crisp layers, topped with a sweet glaze, make them irresistible. Serve fresh for the best experience and pair with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance your enjoyment!