What is a Cinnamon Danish?

A Cinnamon Danish is a layered, buttery pastry filled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture and often topped with a drizzle of icing. Over time, bakers have developed different variations by adding nuts, fruits, or cream cheese fillings.

Key Features:

• Traditionally made using puff pastry or yeast dough

• Filled with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and butter

• Can be topped with icing or glaze

• Available in various shapes, including spirals, braids, or turnovers

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup warm milk

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 packet active dry yeast

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• Powdered sugar & milk (for icing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough – In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix Ingredients – Add flour, salt, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

3. Let it Rise – Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.

4. Roll & Fill – Roll the dough into a rectangle and spread with softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

5. Shape the Pastries – Roll the dough into a log, then cut into individual spirals or shape into braids.

6. Second Rise – Let the shaped dough rest for 30 minutes.

7. Bake – Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.

8. Glaze – Mix powdered sugar and milk to create an icing drizzle over the warm pastries.

• Nutty Cinnamon Danish – Add chopped pecans or almonds to the filling.

• Cream Cheese Danish – Spread a layer of sweetened cream cheese before adding cinnamon filling.

• Fruit-Filled Danish – Include apples, raisins, or berries for a fruity twist.

Cinnamon Danish treats pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Try these serving ideas:

• Breakfast Delight – Serve warm with a cup of black coffee or chai tea.

• Dessert Option – Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

• On-the-Go Snack – Pack in a lunchbox or enjoy as an afternoon pick-me-up.

While cinnamon Danish pastries are a delicious indulgence, consuming them in moderation allows you to enjoy their comforting flavors while maintaining a balanced diet.

The Cinnamon Danish is a timeless pastry that continues to captivate pastry lovers. Whether homemade or store-bought, these flaky, cinnamon-filled treats bring warmth and joy with every bite. Try this recipe at home and customize it with your favorite fillings and toppings!

Ready to bake your own Cinnamon Danish? Gather your ingredients and start baking today!