Apple Cinnamon Danish Pastry with Crumb Topping Recipe

If you’ve been on the lookout for a delightful breakfast treat or a sweet snack that feels like a warm hug, the Apple Cinnamon Danish Pastry with Crumb Topping Recipe is exactly what you need. This irresistible pastry combines flaky puff pastry with a luscious, spiced apple filling and tops it all off with a buttery cinnamon crumb and a glossy sweet glaze. Every bite bursts with the cozy flavors of autumn, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a quiet moment of pure deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to making this classic pastry shine. Each component plays a special role: from the tender puff pastry layers to the warm apple filling laced with cinnamon and nutmeg, right down to the crumb topping that adds a perfect crunchy finish.

• 17.3-ounce box puff pastry dough (two sheets): Provides the flaky, buttery base that puffs up beautifully in the oven.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the silky filling base.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just enough without overpowering.
• ¼ cup water: Helps dissolve the sugars and thin the filling slightly for a smooth texture.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Thickens the apple filling so it’s perfectly spreadable and not runny.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warm spice notes that make the filling comforting and aromatic.
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty depth that complements the cinnamon fantastically.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 2 large peeled and diced Granny Smith apples: Their tartness cuts through the sugary elements, lending freshness and texture.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens and moistens the crumb topping with a mild molasses flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Gives the crumb topping a cohesive spice that echoes the filling.
• 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumb topping and provides a golden crunch.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the structure for the crumb topping.
• 1 large egg: Mixed with water for the egg wash that creates a shiny, inviting crust.
• 1 tablespoon water: Lightens the egg wash for even application.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Forms the base of the luscious glaze finished with vanilla.
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream or milk: Smooths the glaze while maintaining richness.
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant sweetness to the glaze that ties everything together.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Danish Pastry with Crumb Topping Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your danishes bake evenly and come off the sheet cleanly without any sticking drama.

Step 2: Make Apple Filling Base

Grab a medium saucepan and combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, water, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Heat this mixture over medium flame while stirring rhythmically until everything melts together and then bring it to a gentle boil to activate the thickening power of cornstarch.

Step 3: Cook Apples

Once boiling, add the diced Granny Smith apples. Let the pot return to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the filling for about five minutes, stirring frequently so the apples soften and the mixture thickens to a luscious, jammy consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly—perfect timing for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare Puff Pastry

While the filling cools, carefully unfold the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll each sheet into a 10-by-10 inch square. Using a pizza cutter, slice each square into 12 even strips to prepare for shaping the danishes.

Step 5: Shape Danishes

Take two pastry strips and overlap them by about half an inch, pressing the seam together. Twist each pair around itself and seal the end firmly. Arrange six danishes on each parchment-lined baking sheet, pressing down gently in the center of each to create a well. Spoon the cooled apple filling generously into those centers, anticipating every bite’s burst of flavor.

Step 6: Prepare Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir in the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumb topping is what makes this recipe stand out—it adds a perfect textural contrast and extra cinnamon kick.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

Whisk the egg and water together and brush this glossy egg wash over every pastry. This technique guarantees the danishes bake up golden and shiny, giving them that irresistible bakery finish.

Step 8: Add Crumb Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly atop each danish. Pop the trays into the oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes until the edges puff up golden and the crumb topping crisps to perfection. Once baked, let the pastries cool for five minutes—almost time to indulge.

Step 9: Make Glaze

While waiting, mix powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This sweet vanilla glaze provides a lovely finishing touch that balances the spices and adds a silky shine.

Step 10: Glaze Danishes

Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm danishes and watch how it sets slightly as the pastries cool. Serve immediately or enjoy at room temperature for a truly sensational treat.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Danish Pastry with Crumb Topping Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate presentation and add a pop of fresh flavor, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze just before serving. A dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar can also enhance the visual appeal and hint at the cozy spices within.

Side Dishes

This pastry pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or spiced latte. For a brunch spread, consider serving alongside creamy yogurt topped with honey and fresh berries, which offer a refreshing balance to the sweet richness of the danishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the danishes on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra glaze and fresh apple slices for a charming, shareable dessert display. Wrapping individual danishes in parchment and tying with twine makes for a delightful take-home gift or party favor that friends will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This ensures they retain their flaky texture and moist filling without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Apple Cinnamon Danish Pastry with Crumb Topping Recipe another day, freeze unbaked shaped pastries on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When ready to bake, pop them straight into a preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm leftover danishes gently in a 325-degree oven for about 8-10 minutes to revive their crispness and melty filling. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide the perfect tartness and firmness, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a sweeter or softer filling experience.

Do I need to thaw the puff pastry before using?

Yes, thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator according to package instructions before rolling and shaping. This makes it manageable and prevents tearing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour in the crumb topping with a gluten-free flour blend, but note that traditional puff pastry typically contains gluten. Look for gluten-free puff pastry or alternative dough if needed.

Is it possible to prepare the filling ahead of time?

Definitely! The apple filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before assembling the danishes to redistribute any thickening.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the glaze?

No worries—milk works just fine in the glaze to keep it smooth and flavorful. You can also try a non-dairy milk alternative if that suits your dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Danish Pastry with Crumb Topping Recipe is a joy to make and an even greater joy to eat. Its layers of flaky pastry, warmly spiced apple filling, and sweet crumb topping make every bite a celebration of cozy comfort. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the magic of baking this timeless treat for yourself and those you cherish. Trust me, it’s worth every moment and bite.

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