Impress Your Family with Homemade Sourdough Danishes: A Perfect Brunch Treat!

If you’re looking to impress your family at brunch, homemade sourdough danishes are the way to go!

With their flaky layers and delicious fillings, these danishes not only look stunning but also taste incredible. After testing a recipe over the weekend, I can confidently say they are one of the most impressive sourdough creations I've made. Though they require patience and effort, the end result is absolutely worth it. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will make your brunch unforgettable!

Related: Homemade Blueberry Muffin Mix in a Jar: Easy and Delicious Breakfast Delights

Danish pastries are known for their flaky texture and rich flavors.

By incorporating sourdough, you add a unique tang that elevates these pastries even further. Whether you fill them with creamy cheese, sweet strawberry rhubarb, or zesty lemon curd, each bite is a little piece of heaven. This recipe is perfect for a family brunch or a special gathering, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Related: The Art of Homemade Bread: A Recipe for Warmth and Nourishment

Ingredients

For the Dough:

500g all-purpose flour
100g active sourdough starter
50g sugar
10g salt
250g milk (warm)
1 large egg
250g unsalted butter (cold, for laminating)

Similar: Homemade Creme Brûlée Coffee Creamer: A Delicious Canned Recipe

For the Cheese Filling:

200g cream cheese (softened)
50g sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg yolk

For the Strawberry Rhubarb Filling (optional):

200g strawberry rhubarb compote (store-bought or homemade)

For the Egg Wash:

1 egg (beaten, for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, mix the warm milk, sourdough starter, and egg until well combined.
Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Block

Prepare Butter: While the dough is rising, take the cold butter and place it between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to pound and roll it into an 8x8-inch square. Chill in the fridge while the dough rises.

Step 3: Laminate the Dough

Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle about 12x18 inches.
Add the Butter Block: Place the chilled butter block in the center of the dough. Fold the sides of the dough over the butter, encasing it completely.
Roll and Fold: Roll the dough out to approximately 12x24 inches and perform a tri-fold (like folding a letter). Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Repeat: Roll out and fold the dough two more times, chilling for 30 minutes between each fold. This creates the flaky layers.

Step 4: Shape the Danishes

Cut the Dough: Roll out the dough one final time to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into squares (about 4x4 inches).
Create the Center: Make a small cut in each corner of the square, about 1 inch in from the edge, and gently fold the corners into the center to create a pocket.
Add Filling: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg yolk until smooth. Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each danish. If using, add a dollop of strawberry rhubarb compote on top.
Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the danishes with the beaten egg.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Second Rise: Place the shaped danishes on a lined baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for 1-2 hours until puffy.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake: Bake the danishes for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Cool: Allow the danishes to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

These homemade sourdough danishes are sure to steal the show at your next family brunch.

With their flaky layers and delicious fillings, they are a labor of love that will impress everyone at the table. Whether you stick with classic cheese or try out variations like strawberry rhubarb or lemon curd, each bite is a delightful experience. So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it! Enjoy!