Ingredients:

  • 3 ¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons or 7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, heated to 110°F (43°C)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
  • ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup (50g) chopped nuts (optional, e.g., pecans or walnuts)
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, yeast, and let it bloom for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead briefly, then wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Roll the chilled dough into a rectangle.
  6. Place cold butter pieces in the center; fold the dough over to encase the butter.
  7. Roll and fold the dough into thirds (turning like a book). Repeat for a total of 3 times, chilling between folds.
  8. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using).
  9. Roll out the laminated dough into a large rectangle.
  10. Cut into squares or triangles.
  11. Place filling in the center and fold or twist based on your desired shape.
  12. Arrange on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  13. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  14. Let the shaped danishes proof for 30 minutes.
  15. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  16. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  17. Drizzle over cooled danishes before serving.