There’s something about the combination of warm, spiced apples and buttery puff pastry that takes me back to mornings in my grandmother’s kitchen. Apple Crumb Danishes have a way of bringing comfort with every bite, and they’ve become a staple at family gatherings.
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Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a cozy weekend brunch, these danishes always bring a little extra joy to the table.
A Southern food classic
Growing up, Southern food wasn’t just about feeding the family; it was about bringing everyone together. My grandmother’s kitchen was always full of the sweet scent of cinnamon, butter, and fresh fruit. Apple Crumb Danishes remind me of her, and the way she would bake with love, passing down recipes that had been perfected over generations.
Southern cooking is full of traditions like this—simple, but made with heart. These danishes, with their crisp layers and sweet apple filling, carry on that warmth, making them a beloved classic in my own kitchen.
Ingredients
How to make Apple Crumb Danishes
These danishes come together with a few easy steps, and the process itself feels like a cozy ritual. Start by cooking the apples with butter, sugar, and cinnamon until they soften but don’t become mushy. Then, prepare your puff pastry, adding the apple mixture and a sweet crumble topping.
A quick bake in the oven gives you the golden-brown finish you’re looking for. Add a drizzle of creamy frosting, and you’re ready to serve up these Southern delights.
Serving suggestions
Apple Crumb Danishes are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat at any time of the day. Serve them alongside a strong cup of coffee or sweet iced tea for that true Southern experience.
They also pair wonderfully with other classic Southern dishes like scrambled eggs and bacon for a full brunch spread. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream on top adds a little extra sweetness.
Storage tips
These danishes are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the pastry once again.
If you want to save them for later, you can freeze the unbaked pastries before adding the frosting. Simply bake them from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Southern farewell
Apple Crumb Danishes are a special recipe for me because they bring back fond memories of gathering around the table with family. I hope they become a favorite in your home too.
Try them out for your next family breakfast or brunch, and I guarantee they’ll be a hit. Enjoy every bite, and remember that Southern food is all about sharing good times and great flavors!
Apple Crumb Danishes
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry Brush
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 4 large Granny Smith apples; cored peeled, and sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 box 17.3-ounces frozen puff pastry (two sheets of pastry in the box), thawed according to package directions
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Crumble Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and begin to release their juices—about 5 minutes. Be sure not to overcook the apples.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir this mixture into the apples and cook for another 3-5 minutes over medium heat until the apples are soft but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a flat surface. Cut along the fold marks to create three equal strips, then cut each strip in half to make a total of 12 rectangles.
- Place the pastry rectangles on an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each one. Lightly score a border around each rectangle, about 1/2 inch from the edge, using a knife. Poke a few holes in the center with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Spoon the cooled apple mixture onto the center of each pastry rectangle, making sure to avoid the outer scored border.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer of the egg wash to the outer border of each pastry.
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of butter, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of flour. Use a fork to mix until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apples.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pastries for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and cool on a baking rack for 10 minutes.
- To make the frosting, combine 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled danishes. Enjoy your Apple Crumb Danishes!
