Danish – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Pastry Types Glossary

I. What is Danish?

Danish pastries, also known as “Danishes,” are a popular type of pastry that originated in Denmark. They are typically made from a sweet, flaky dough that is filled with various ingredients such as fruit, nuts, or cream. The dough is often laminated with butter to create layers that are crispy and buttery when baked. Danishes can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes, including twists, spirals, and squares. They are often topped with icing, glaze, or streusel for added sweetness.

II. Wienerbrød

Wienerbrød, which translates to “Viennese bread” in Danish, is a type of pastry that is similar to a croissant. It is made from a laminated dough that is rolled out, folded, and rolled out again to create layers. The dough is then shaped into various forms, such as spirals or twists, and filled with ingredients like almond paste, custard, or fruit. Wienerbrød is often topped with a sweet glaze or icing to add extra flavor and sweetness.

III. Spandauer

Spandauer is a type of Danish pastry that is named after the Spandauer district in Berlin, Germany. It is made from a flaky dough that is filled with a sweet almond paste and topped with sliced almonds. Spandauer pastries are typically square in shape and have a crunchy texture from the almonds. They are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea as a sweet treat.

IV. Kanelstang

Kanelstang, which translates to “cinnamon stick” in Danish, is a type of pastry that is similar to a cinnamon roll. It is made from a sweet, yeasted dough that is rolled out, filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and rolled up into a log shape. The log is then sliced into individual pieces and baked until golden brown. Kanelstang pastries are often topped with a sweet glaze or icing to add extra sweetness and flavor.

V. Hindbærsnitte

Hindbærsnitte is a type of Danish pastry that is made from a flaky dough filled with raspberry jam. The dough is typically cut into rectangular shapes and topped with a lattice design made from strips of dough. Hindbærsnitte pastries are baked until golden brown and then topped with a sweet glaze or icing. They are often enjoyed as a dessert or snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

VI. Tebirkes

Tebirkes is a type of Danish pastry that is made from a flaky dough filled with poppy seeds and almond paste. The dough is rolled out, filled with the poppy seed mixture, and folded into a square shape. Tebirkes pastries are then baked until golden brown and topped with a sweet glaze or icing. They are often enjoyed as a breakfast pastry or snack with a cup of coffee or tea.