Apple Pie Danish Buns

Imagine waking up to the scent of spiced apples and buttery pastry wafting through the air, as golden light pours into the kitchen. These Apple Pie Danish Buns are more than just a treat—they’re a warm hug in the form of pastry. Each bite is an invitation to slow down, savor the sweetness, and indulge in a little everyday magic. With flaky layers, gooey apple filling, and a glaze that glistens like morning dew, this is a bake that brings joy to any table.

Behind the Recipe

It all started on a crisp autumn morning, with apples tumbling out of a farmer’s market tote and a craving for something cozy. I wanted the nostalgia of apple pie, the elegance of a Danish, and the comfort of a cinnamon bun—all in one. After a few experiments, these buns came to life, bringing together the best of everything I love about fall baking. They’re now a staple in my kitchen whenever I want to bring smiles to sleepy faces.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Danish pastries trace their roots to Austria, not Denmark as one might think. In the 19th century, Austrian bakers introduced the concept of laminated doughs to Denmark during a labor strike, and Danish bakers quickly embraced and adapted it. The apple pie, a quintessential American dessert, brings its own heritage of colonial tradition. Merging the two creates a delightful fusion of Old World technique and New World flavor.

Why You’ll Love Apple Pie Danish Buns

There are plenty of reasons this recipe deserves a place in your kitchen:

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and just as delightful served warm or at room temperature.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples and seasonal apples, they deliver gourmet flavor without the price tag.

Quick and Easy: Using store-bought puff pastry or crescent dough cuts down on prep time while still delivering wow-worthy results.

Customizable: Swap the apple filling with pear, peach, or berries depending on the season and your mood.

Crowd-Pleasing: These buns disappear quickly at potlucks, brunches, and cozy get-togethers.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the filling and dough the night before and assemble in the morning.

Great for Leftovers: They reheat beautifully, and leftover buns can be turned into a sweet bread pudding.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Before we start rolling, here are a few tricks from my kitchen to yours:

• Use Cold Dough: Keep your pastry cold until you’re ready to shape. This helps create flaky, tender layers.
• Slice the Apples Thin: Thin slices cook evenly and meld into the filling beautifully.
• Don’t Overfill: A little filling goes a long way. Overstuffing can cause leakage during baking.
• Brush with Egg Wash: This adds a gorgeous golden sheen to the baked buns.
• Glaze While Warm: Drizzling the icing while the buns are slightly warm lets it set just right—neither too runny nor too stiff.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

A few trusty tools will make this baking experience a breeze:

Rolling Pin: For gently stretching the dough to the right thickness.

Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For precise cuts without tugging the pastry.

Mixing Bowl: To toss and coat the apples evenly with spices.

Saucepan: To cook down the apple mixture to gooey perfection.

Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Pastry Brush: Essential for applying the egg wash evenly.

Cooling Rack: Allows the buns to set without becoming soggy.

Ingredients in Apple Pie Danish Buns

This ingredient list is where the magic begins—each one brings its own charm to the table.

1. Puff Pastry Sheets: 2 sheets (about 17.3 oz) thawed – Forms the flaky, buttery base of the buns.
2. Apples: 2 medium (preferably Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced – Provide tartness and body to the filling.
3. Brown Sugar: 1/3 cup – Adds depth and caramel notes to the apple mixture.
4. Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons – Helps sweeten and balance the spice.
5. Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – Brings warm, nostalgic spice to the mix.
6. Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon – Adds a subtle, earthy warmth.
7. Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon – Thickens the apple filling for a gooey texture.
8. Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons – Enriches the filling with creamy flavor.
9. Egg: 1, beaten – For a glossy, golden finish on the pastry.
10. Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup – For the simple yet decadent glaze.
11. Milk: 1 to 2 tablespoons – Loosens the glaze to a drizzling consistency.
12. Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds fragrance and depth to the glaze.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you’ve got to work with what you have—here are a few swaps that work well:

Puff Pastry: Crescent roll dough.

Granny Smith Apples: Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter taste.

Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

Butter: Vegan butter or margarine for a dairy-free version.

Milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk for a lactose-free glaze.

Ingredient Spotlight

Granny Smith Apples: These apples are tart, firm, and perfect for baking. Their structure holds up under heat, creating a filling that’s both soft and textured.

Cinnamon: More than just a spice—cinnamon evokes comfort and warmth. It’s the aromatic heart of any good apple pie.

Instructions for Making Apple Pie Danish Buns

Now let’s bring this beautiful creation to life, one delicious step at a time.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Cook until apples are tender and mixture thickens, about 8 minutes. Let cool slightly.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. If needed, trim the edges to make a perfect rectangle.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Cut each sheet into six equal squares. Spoon a tablespoon of apple filling into the center of each square. Fold corners in toward the center and gently press to seal. Place buns on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Brush the tops with beaten egg. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Finishing Touches:
   In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle glaze over warm buns.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a mug of tea, coffee, or warm cider.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These buns deliver an irresistible contrast—crisp, golden edges paired with a soft, gooey center. The flaky layers cradle a caramelized apple filling, spiced just right, and finished with a silky glaze that adds a pop of sweetness in every bite.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here’s how to take your baking from great to glorious:

• Always use chilled dough to keep the layers distinct and flaky.
• Let the apple mixture cool before filling to avoid soggy bottoms.
• Use a piping bag for the glaze if you want perfect zigzag lines.
• Sprinkle coarse sugar before baking for extra crunch.

What to Avoid

A few common missteps can be easily sidestepped:

• Don’t overfill the pastry—it will leak and burn.
• Avoid skipping the cornstarch—it prevents a runny mess.
• Don’t underbake—wait for that deep golden color before pulling them out.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 220
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the apple filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the buns the morning you want to bake. Baked buns can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap individually and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.

How to Serve Apple Pie Danish Buns

Serve warm with a drizzle of extra glaze, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair with spiced tea, hot cider, or even a latte dusted with cinnamon.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got extras? Turn them into something new:

• Chop and layer into a parfait with yogurt and granola.
• Cube and fold into pancake batter for apple bun pancakes.
• Crumble and bake into a sweet breakfast casserole.

Additional Tips

• Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
• Add finely chopped nuts to the filling for texture.
• Try a hint of lemon zest in the glaze for brightness.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange the buns in a circular pattern on a serving platter. Garnish with thin apple slices and a light dusting of cinnamon for a bakery-style presentation. A cake stand adds height and elegance to your table.

Variations to Try

• Maple Pecan Buns: Add chopped pecans and swap glaze for maple syrup drizzle.
• Berry Danish Buns: Replace apples with blueberries or raspberries.
• Caramel Apple Buns: Drizzle with caramel sauce instead of icing.
• Pumpkin Spice Buns: Add a spoonful of pumpkin purée to the filling with a pinch of cloves.
• Savory Twist: Try pear and brie for a gourmet brunch version.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use canned apple pie filling?

Yes, but fresh apples offer better texture and flavor. If using canned, reduce the sugar in the glaze.

Q2: Can I make these dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use vegan butter and plant-based milk.

Q3: Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Definitely! It adds a rich, buttery taste, though store-bought works beautifully too.

Q4: Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother filling, but leaving the peel on adds a rustic touch.

Q5: Can I freeze the buns before baking?

Yes. Assemble and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.

Q6: What’s the best apple variety to use?

Granny Smith for tartness, or Honeycrisp for a sweet bite.

Q7: Can I reheat them in the microwave?

Yes, but the oven keeps them crispier. Microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Q8: Can I skip the glaze?

Of course, though it adds a lovely finish. Try dusting with powdered sugar instead.

Q9: How do I prevent soggy bottoms?

Cool the filling before assembling, and bake until the bottoms are golden.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just use two baking sheets and rotate them halfway through baking.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a recipe that combines tradition, comfort, and a touch of indulgence. These Apple Pie Danish Buns are the kind of bake that brings people together, fills your kitchen with joy, and reminds you why baking is one of life’s sweetest pleasures. Trust me, you’re going to love this—every gooey, golden, cinnamon-kissed bite.

Print