This 3-ingredient apple Danish is the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. With buttery, flaky puff pastry, sweetened apples, and a sprinkle of sugar, this treat is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just craving a homemade pastry, this recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress!
Why This Recipe Works
Minimal Ingredients: With just three basic ingredients, you get a beautiful and flavorful Danish without the need for complex baking techniques.
Easy Preparation: Using store-bought puff pastry simplifies the process while ensuring a light and flaky texture.
Versatile: This recipe can easily be customized with additional spices or toppings for added flavor.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry: 2 sheets, thawed.
Apples: 2 medium-sized, peeled, cored, and quartered.
Sugar: 1/3 cup baker’s sugar, plus extra for dusting.
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and quarter the apples. Place them in a saucepan with just enough water to cover. Simmer over medium heat for about 4 minutes, or until the apples are slightly softened. Remove from heat, stir in the sugar, and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheets if needed. Cut each sheet into four equal squares, creating eight portions in total.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
Place a cooled apple quarter in the center of each puff pastry square.
Fold the corners of the puff pastry over the apple, overlapping slightly in the middle.
Lightly press the edges to seal.
Step 5: Add Sugar Dusting
Sprinkle a small amount of baker’s sugar over each assembled Danish for a touch of sweetness and a golden finish.
Step 6: Bake the Danishes
Transfer the prepared pastries to your lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the Danishes to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Recipe Success
Perfect Puff Pastry: Keep the pastry cold while working with it. If it becomes too warm, refrigerate for a few minutes before assembling.
Apple Choice: Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavor and texture.
Even Cooking: Ensure your apple quarters are similar in size for uniform baking.
Extra Shine: Brush the pastry with a little beaten egg before baking for a golden, glossy finish.
Optional Additions and Variations
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apples for a warm, spiced flavor.
Glaze: Drizzle the baked Danishes with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
Fruit Filling: Swap apples for pears, peaches, or berries to create different variations of this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Breakfast Spread: Pair these Danishes with coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.
Dessert Plate: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Afternoon Snack: Enjoy them as a quick snack with a warm latte or cider.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Store any leftover Danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore their flakiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 3-ingredient apple Danish recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. The combination of flaky puff pastry, sweet apples, and just the right amount of sugar makes it a favorite for all occasions.
Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and delivers bakery-quality results every time. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection!