Apricot Custard Danish Pastries

Apricot Custard Danish Pastries are a beautiful blend of golden, flaky puff pastry, smooth vanilla custard, and sweet, juicy apricot halves. Each pastry is finished with a simple glaze drizzle for the perfect balance of flavor and presentation. These elegant treats are ideal for brunch spreads, dessert platters, or an elevated tea-time indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers bakery-style results with minimal effort. The crisp puff pastry contrasts perfectly with the silky custard and tender apricots, while the vanilla glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness. With their stunning appearance and rich yet refreshing flavor, these danishes are sure to impress guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, the homemade custard is simple and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pastry:

• Puff pastry sheet, thawed
• Canned apricot halves, drained
• Egg (for egg wash)

For the custard:

• Whole milk
• Egg yolks
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Vanilla extract

For the glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks.
3. Place over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens—about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut into 6 squares (about 4×4 inches).
5. Fold or press the edges of each square inward slightly to form a border.
6. Spoon a generous amount of cooled custard into the center of each pastry square.
7. Gently press one apricot half (cut side down) into the center of the custard.
8. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and brush the edges with beaten egg.
9. Bake for 16–18 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
10. Allow the danishes to cool slightly before glazing.
11. For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with 1–2 teaspoons of milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled pastries just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 pastries
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Calories: 290 kcal per pastry

Variations

• Fruit Swap: Substitute apricots with canned peaches, pears, or fresh plums for a different flavor.
• Almond Twist: Add a touch of almond extract to the custard or sprinkle with slivered almonds before baking.
• Jam Base: Spread a thin layer of apricot or peach jam under the custard for a boost of sweetness.
• Mini Danishes: Cut the puff pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized versions.
• Lemon Custard: Infuse the custard with lemon zest for a citrusy version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes to revive the crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pastry soggy. These pastries are best enjoyed fresh the day they’re made.

FAQs

Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before assembling the danishes.

Can I use store-bought custard?

Yes, for convenience, store-bought vanilla custard can be used as a substitute.

How do I keep the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure your apricots are well-drained and your custard is fully cooled before assembling. Bake on parchment paper for optimal crispness.

Can I use fresh apricots?

Yes, fresh apricots work well. Slice them in halves or quarters and remove the pits before placing them in the custard.

Can I freeze these pastries?

It’s best to freeze them unbaked. Assemble, freeze on a tray, then store in a container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use an additional sheet of puff pastry and double the filling and custard quantities.

How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin the glaze.

Can I make them round instead of square?

Yes, you can cut the puff pastry into circles or use muffin tins for a different shape.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free puff pastry, plant-based milk, and a non-dairy substitute for cream to adapt the custard and glaze.

What can I serve with these pastries?

Serve with coffee, tea, or as part of a larger brunch spread with fruit, eggs, and savory pastries.

Conclusion

Apricot Custard Danish Pastries are a stunning, easy-to-make treat that delivers the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and flaky. Whether you’re hosting brunch, setting a dessert table, or just baking something special for yourself, these elegant pastries are sure to become a favorite. With their golden finish and luscious filling, they’re every bit as delicious as they are beautiful.

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