Auntie Barbara S Yummy Easy Danish Pastry Recipe

A family favorite recipe passed down through generations! This impressive yet easy-to-make Danish pastry is perfect for any occasion. Crispy, flaky layers meet a delicious almond-flavored custard topping. Detailed step-by-step photos guide you through the process, ensuring picture-perfect results every time. This recipe yields one large tray-baked pastry, easily sliced into servings. (Note: Almond extract is stronger than almond essence; adjust quantity to taste.)

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 65 mins
Calories 369.1 kcal
Protein 9g
Rating 4.7 (22 Reviews)
Auntie Barbara S Yummy Easy Danish Pastry 34

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Auntie Barbara S Yummy Easy Danish Pastry

  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Water
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (or to taste)
  • Eggs
  • Walnuts
  • Icing Sugar
  • Vanilla Essence
  • Warm Water

How to Make Auntie Barbara S Yummy Easy Danish Pastry

  1. **Make the base:** In a bowl, combine 4 ounces (113g) unsalted butter, 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, and 2 tablespoons (30ml) cold water. Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the water and mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  2. **Prepare the baking tray:** Spread the dough onto an ungreased baking sheet to a thickness of 5-7mm.
  3. **Make the custard topping:** In a saucepan, combine 4 ounces (113g) unsalted butter and 1 cup (240ml) water. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  4. **Thicken the custard:** Remove from heat and immediately whisk in 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour at once until smooth. Continue whisking until a smooth ball forms.
  5. **Add flavor and eggs:** Whisk in 1 teaspoon almond extract (or to taste) and 3 large eggs. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  6. **Assemble and bake:** Spread the custard mixture evenly over the prepared dough. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 45-60 minutes, or until the pastry is light golden brown and the topping is crisp.
  7. **Cool and glaze:** Let the pastry cool completely on a wire rack.
  8. **Decorate:** Glaze with your favorite icing, and sprinkle with chopped nuts or other desired decorations.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

7 g

Sugar

71g

Fat

68g

Carbs

12g

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