Go Back
A freshly baked cinnamon danish on a white plate, featuring a flaky, golden pastry with swirls of cinnamon sugar filling, drizzled with a sweet glaze.

Cinnamon Danish Recipe

Ely Chef
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Breakfast, brunch, Dessert
Cuisine Danish,, European
Servings 12 Danishes
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation for a soft yet sturdy dough.
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet instant yeast – Helps the dough rise and creates a light, airy texture.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
  • ¾ cup warm milk – Activates the yeast and gives the dough its tender consistency.
  • 1 large egg – Provides richness and structure.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened – Adds the buttery flavor essential for Danish pastry.

For the Cinnamon Filling

  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened – Makes the filling creamy and easy to spread.
  • ⅔ cup brown sugar – Adds a caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
  • 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon – The star of the show giving the filling its warm, spiced flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the depth of flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional but Recommended!)

  • 4 oz cream cheese softened – The perfect creamy base for the glaze.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and smoothness to the glaze.
  • 2 –3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency for easy drizzling.
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle hint of flavor to the glaze.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk (¾ cup), sugar (¼ cup), and instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons). Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  • Add egg (1 large), softened butter (½ cup), salt (½ teaspoon), and flour (2 ¾ cups). Mix until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

  • In a small bowl, mix softened butter (½ cup), brown sugar (⅔ cup), ground cinnamon (1 ½ tablespoons), and vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) until smooth.
  • Set aside at room temperature so it’s easy to spread when assembling.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to a floured surface.
  • Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12x16 inches, keeping the thickness even throughout.

Step 4: Spread the Filling and Shape

  • Place cinnamon filling across the entire surface of the dough while keeping space free on all sides.
  • Begin by rolling up the dough from one end to the other.
  • Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 5: Shape and Proof the Danishes

  • Arrange the slices on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for them to expand.
  • Press each piece a little to make it thinner. Cover with a clean towel and let them proof for 30–45 minutes, or until puffed.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush the Danishes with egg wash (1 beaten egg with a splash of milk) for a golden, shiny finish.
  • Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

  • While the Danishes are cooling, mix softened cream cheese (4 oz), powdered sugar (1 cup), milk (2–3 tablespoons), and vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) until smooth and drizzle-ready.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

  • Drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm Danishes.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy their flaky layers, gooey filling, and sweet glaze.