Breakfast Danish Crisps

Total Time
Prep: 40 min. + rising Bake: 15 min./batch

Updated on Nov. 09, 2023

This treasured recipe has been in the family for nearly 50 years. The tender, flaky treats make holiday breakfasts even more special.

Test Kitchen Approved

Breakfast Danish Crisps

Yield: about 1-1/2 dozen
Prep: 40 min
Cook: 15 min

Ingredients

  • 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
  • 1 cup warm 2% milk (110° to 115°)
  • 2 cups sugar, divided
  • 1/2 cup plus 6 tablespoons butter, softened, divided
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mace
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 5-1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add milk, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter, lemon zest, salt, mace, eggs and 2 cups flour; beat well. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
  2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover; let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
  3. Punch dough down. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 in. thick. Spread with 2 tablespoons butter. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup sugar. Fold in half lengthwise; roll to 1/4-in. thickness. Spread with 2 tablespoons butter; sprinkle with 1/3 cup sugar.
  4. Fold in half widthwise; roll to an 18x10-in. rectangle. Spread with remaining butter. Combine cinnamon and remaining sugar; sprinkle half over dough to within 1/4 in. of edges. Roll up tightly, starting with a short side; pinch to seal. Cut into 1/2-in. slices.
  5. Place on greased baking sheets (4-6 slices per sheet). Cover with waxed paper and flatten with palm of hand. Sprinkle with remaining cinnamon sugar. Let stand in a warm place for 30 minutes.
  6. Bake at 400° for 12-15 minutes. Immediately remove from pans to wire racks.
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