Apricot Jam Danish Pastry

A Simple Yet Stunning Puff Pastry Treat

You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make bakery-worthy danishes at home. This Apricot Jam Danish Pastry is flaky, fruity, and just sweet enough—thanks to the magic of store-bought puff pastry and a dollop of luscious apricot jam. Topped with a simple sugar glaze, it’s perfect for brunch, tea time, or dessert.

Best of all? It’s easier than you’d think. No yeast. No laminating. Just 6 simple ingredients and about 30 minutes of hands-on time.

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📌 Why You’ll Love This Apricot Danish Recipe

• ✅ Flaky and buttery like a real bakery treat

• ✅ Quick and easy with puff pastry shortcut

• ✅ Customizable filling – jam, cheese, or fresh fruit

• ✅ Perfect for brunch boards or afternoon tea

• ✅ Make-ahead friendly – prep and bake later

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🍑 Ingredients for Apricot Jam Danish

Yields 6–8 danishes, depending on size.

For the Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought is fine)

• ½ cup apricot jam (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Glaze

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp milk or cream

• ¼ tsp vanilla extract

💡 Optional additions: sliced almonds, cream cheese, or fresh apricot slices.

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🔪 How to Make Apricot Jam Danish Pastries

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Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Thaw and Prep the Puff Pastry

Remove puff pastry from the freezer and thaw according to package directions—usually about 30–40 minutes at room temperature.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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2. Cut and Shape the Danish

Unfold the pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Roll slightly to smooth the folds.

Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut into 6 to 8 equal squares. There are a few popular ways to shape danishes:

• Diamond Fold: Fold opposite corners of the square into the center over the jam.

• Pinwheel: Slice corners toward the center and fold alternating tips inward.

• Open Face: Simply place jam in the center and leave edges exposed for a rustic look.

Place shaped danishes on the baking sheet.

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3. Add the Apricot Jam

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of apricot jam into the center of each pastry. Don’t overfill—it will bubble during baking.

For extra flair, top with a slice of fresh apricot or a few sliced almonds.

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4. Brush and Bake

Brush exposed pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 16–20 minutes, or until puffed and deep golden brown.

Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

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5. Drizzle with Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar as needed.

Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle glaze over the cooled danishes.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

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🧊 How to Store Apricot Danishes

🧁 To reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp the pastry.

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🍽 Serving Ideas & Variations

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When to Serve

• Brunch spreads

• Baby showers or bridal teas

• Easter or Mother’s Day

• Breakfast meetings

• Weekend treats with coffee

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Flavor Variations

• Cheese + Apricot: Add a teaspoon of cream cheese under the jam.

• Almond Apricot: Add almond extract to the glaze and sprinkle slivered almonds.

• Fresh Fruit: Add chopped fresh apricots or peaches for texture.

• Mini Version: Cut pastry into 3” squares for mini danishes perfect for a party tray.

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❓ FAQs – Apricot Jam Danish Pastry

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Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! If you’re comfortable making rough puff or laminated dough, go for it. Store-bought just saves time.

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Do I need to pre-bake the puff pastry?

No, puff pastry bakes fully in the oven once shaped and filled. Just make sure not to overload the jam.

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Can I freeze these danishes?

Yes! Freeze baked danishes and reheat them in the oven for best texture. You can also freeze them unbaked, then bake from frozen (add 5–7 minutes).

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What’s the best apricot jam to use?

Use a thick, high-quality jam—homemade or store-bought. Thin or runny jam may spread too much during baking.

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Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use a plant-based milk in the glaze and ensure your puff pastry is dairy-free (many store brands are made with oil, not butter).

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💛 Final Thoughts: Flaky, Fruity, Foolproof

This Apricot Jam Danish is a dream come true for pastry lovers who want bakery-style results without the bakery-level effort. With buttery puff pastry, golden edges, and a jammy apricot center, it’s an irresistible combo of textures and flavors.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a quiet morning, these danishes are sure to bring a little sunshine to your kitchen—and your plate.