Strawberry Danish

Danish pastries are a beloved indulgence in the dessert world, known for their flaky, buttery layers and delightful fillings. These pastries have captivated the hearts (and taste buds) of many, becoming a staple in bakeries and homes alike. The art of making Danish pastries from scratch not only brings a sense of accomplishment but also fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods. In this article, we will guide you through the enchanting process of creating "Sweet Strawberry Bliss"—a delightful Danish pastry that features a luscious strawberry filling nestled in a tender, flaky dough.

Discover the bliss of baking with Sweet Strawberry Bliss, a delightful Danish pastry filled with fresh strawberries and topped with a sweet glaze. This recipe guides you through the art of creating flaky, buttery layers from scratch, making it perfect for any occasion—from brunch to dessert. With easy-to-follow instructions and tips, you'll impress friends and family with your baking skills. Indulge in this tasty treat and explore the joy of homemade pastries!

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Ingredients

For the Danish Pastry:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

- In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and dissolve the yeast in it. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.

- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.

- Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl along with the beaten egg and vanilla extract. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for approximately 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and place it in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Incorporate the Butter:

- When the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.

- Place the cold, cubed butter in the center of the rolled-out dough. Fold the dough edges over the butter, fully encasing it.

- Roll the dough out again into a long rectangle. Fold it into thirds like a letter, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.

Make the Strawberry Filling:

- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

- Cook the mixture over medium heat, gently stirring, until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Shape the Danish:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

- Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle again and cut it into 4 equal squares.

- In each square, make cuts from each corner toward the center (about 2 inches deep) while leaving the middle intact.

- Spoon a generous amount of the cooled strawberry filling into the center of each square. Gently fold the corners of the squares toward the center over the filling, pressing them down to create a sealed packet.

Bake the Danishes:

- Position the filled Danishes on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with a little of the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.

- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.

Prepare the Glaze:

- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pourable glaze.

Finish Off:

- Allow the Danishes to cool slightly after baking. Drizzle the glaze generously over the top just before serving. Enjoy them warm or allow them to reach room temperature!

Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 2 hrs | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the Danishes on a decorative plate, garnished with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added appeal. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!