Amish Apple Cheese Danish Delight is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of traditional Amish baking. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of ripe apples with the rich creaminess of cheese, nestled within delicate layers of flaky Danish pastry. The Amish approach to food emphasizes simplicity and wholesome ingredients, and this pastry is no exception. Each bite unveils a harmonious blend of tart apples, subtly tangy cheese, and the satisfying buttery texture of the pastry. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast indulgence or a comforting dessert, the Amish Apple Cheese Danish Delight offers a glimpse into the heartwarming flavors and timeless traditions of Amish cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed and placed on a lightly floured work surface
- 4 ounces (1/2 package) cream cheese softened to room temperature
- ¼ cup + 3 tablespoons honey divided; raw honey if you are able to source it
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 large apple any variety; peeled if desired; sliced in 1/4-inch-thick slices
- ½ small lemon juice and zest
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 6 tablespoons coarse raw sugar
Directions
- Place apple slices into a microwave-safe bowl and add the juice and zest of half a lemon. Add the vanilla to the bowl. Cover the contents with cold water and microwave on high for 3 minutes.
- CAREFULLY remove the bowl and drain the apple slices. Allow them cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl using a wire whisk, cream the softened cream cheese with the 1/4 cup of the honey and the cinnamon. Combine well. Set aside.
- Use a rolling pin to roll a sheet of puff pastry dough to where it’s an inch longer on the long side and an inch longer on the short side. Use a pizza cutter to cut through the dough right down the middle lengthwise. Next, cut each half into three equal thirds.
- In each square of dough, use the pizza wheel to lightly score an inside square which will result in an edge all the way around.
- Equally distribute and spread the cream cheese mixture inside each square and spread it from side to side, corner to corner.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and have your prepared baking sheet next to your pastry.
- Transfer each of the pastry squares to the baking sheet.
- Assemble between 5 and 8 slices of apple on each pastry square atop the cream cheese mixture.
- Use a pastry brush to apply the lightly beaten egg wash around the ledge of each pastry square.
- Sprinkle a tablespoon of raw sugar on each square, coating the ledges.
- Drizzle each square lightly with the remaining 3 tablespoons of honey and place into preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and place the baking sheet on a wire cooling rack. Cool the Danishes completely on the baking sheet.