apple danish bread recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best apple danish bread recipe

I have been making this apple danish bread recipe for years and it is always a hit in my house. My kids love the sweet apple filling and the soft bread that is not too heavy. It is perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of coffee. The best part is that it uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

I love that this recipe is not overly sweet so it feels like a treat but still fits into a balanced diet. The apples give you some fiber and vitamin C which is always a bonus when you are feeding a family. This apple danish bread comes from the classic Danish pastry tradition but I have simplified it for home bakers. The bread has a tender crumb and a light sweetness from the apples and a hint of cinnamon.

When you bake it your whole house smells like fall and it feels cozy and welcoming. The key technique here is to cook the apples down just enough so they soften but still hold their shape. You do not want them mushy. I also like to add a little lemon juice to brighten the flavor and keep the apples from browning too much.

I have tried many versions of this recipe over the years and this one is my favorite because it is reliable and easy. You do not need any special equipment just a mixing bowl and a baking sheet. The dough comes together quickly and you can even make it the night before and bake it in the morning. My husband says it reminds him of the pastries his grandmother used to make but simpler.

That is exactly what I aim for with my cooking food that feels special but does not take all day. This recipe is also great for using up apples that are getting a little soft. I often make it when we have extra apples from apple picking or from the farmers market. It is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of the season without a lot of fuss.

Whether you serve it for a weekend brunch or pack it for a picnic this apple danish bread always gets compliments. I hope your family loves it as much as mine does.

Apple Danish Bread

4.6 from 566 votes

A soft and tender bread filled with sweet cinnamon apples. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1/2 tsp salt

For the Apple Filling

2 medium apples, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

For the Topping

1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water (egg wash)
2 tbsp sliced almonds (optional)
1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and the yeast.
2Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
4Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg to the dry ingredients.
5Mix with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
6Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
7The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
8Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
9While the dough rises, make the filling.
10In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter.
11Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
12Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened but still hold their shape.
13Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1 more minute until the mixture thickens.
14Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
15The filling should be thick and not runny.
16Preheat the oven to 375°F.
17Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
18Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×10 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
19Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1 inch border on all sides.
20Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
21Pinch the seam to seal.
22Place the log seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
23Use a sharp knife to make 4 slits on top of the log, about 2 inches apart.
24Cover loosely with a towel and let it rise for 20 minutes.
25Brush the top with the egg wash and sprinkle with sliced almonds and coarse sugar if using.
26Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
27Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Small saucepan
Rolling pin

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 210mg🌾Total Carbs: 46g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

You can use any apple variety you like. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well. For a dairy free version, use plant based butter and milk.

Watch Video Of How Apple Danish Bread Works

This apple danish bread is always a good idea for any occasion. It works well for family gatherings because it is easy to slice and serve and everyone loves the sweet apple filling.

I often make it for holiday brunches or just a special weekend breakfast. To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to two days.

For reheating, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. You can also serve it with a drizzle of icing or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

This recipe is a keeper and I know you will enjoy it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Danish Bread

1. Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any apple you like. Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are sweeter and also work great. Just avoid apples that turn mushy quickly like Red Delicious.

2. Can I make this apple danish bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before. After the first rise, punch down the dough and wrap it tightly. Store the filling in a separate container in the fridge. In the morning, roll out the dough, fill it, and let it rise before baking.

3. How do I store leftover apple danish bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

4. Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Absolutely. You can add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for extra crunch. Raisins or dried cranberries also work well. Just stir them in after you cook the apples.

5. Why did my dough not rise properly?

Make sure your milk is warm but not hot, around 110°F. If the milk is too hot it will kill the yeast. Also check that your yeast is fresh. If your kitchen is cold, let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven (turned off) with the light on.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts