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
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.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and remaining sugar.
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.
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.
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.
Repeat Folds:
Perform two more folds, chilling the dough for 30 minutes between each fold.
Filling and Shaping
Prepare Filling:
Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Roll Out Dough:
Roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
Shape Pastries:
Cut the dough into squares or rectangles. Fold the corners or sides towards the center over the filling.
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
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the pastries for 15-20 minutes until golden and flaky.
Prepare Glaze:
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth icing.
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!