Crescent Cheese Danishes are a quick and easy version of the classic bakery favorite. Made with buttery crescent dough, creamy sweetened cream cheese, and a drizzle of icing, these danishes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these flaky, delicious pastries in no time!
Ingredients
For the Danish:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, separated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for a tangy flavor)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 tablespoon water
- Reserved egg white (from the separated egg)
For the Icing:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 tablespoons fruit preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot) for a fruity twist
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest for added brightness
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a spiced flavor
For Serving:
- Fresh fruit or coffee on the side
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough
- Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it onto the prepared baking sheet. Separate the dough into 8 triangles.
- Press each triangle slightly to widen it and make room for the cream cheese filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk together until smooth and creamy.
- For a tangy flavor, add lemon juice to the mixture and blend well.
Step 4: Fill the Danishes
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling onto the center of each crescent triangle.
- Fold the two corners of each triangle over the cream cheese filling, pressing lightly to seal the edges.
Step 5: Prepare the Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved egg white and 1 tablespoon of water.
- Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
Step 6: Bake the Danishes
- Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is set.
Step 7: Make the Icing
- While the danishes are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make the icing. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar if needed.
Step 8: Drizzle with Icing
- Once the danishes are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Drizzle the icing over the warm danishes using a spoon or piping bag.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Crescent Cheese Danishes warm or at room temperature, accompanied by fresh fruit or a cup of coffee.
Cooking Notes
- Dough: Be careful not to overfill the crescent rolls, as the filling may leak out during baking. Folding the dough securely over the filling helps keep everything inside.
- Flavors: For extra flavor, consider mixing in lemon zest or cinnamon with the cream cheese filling, or adding a spoonful of fruit preserves on top of the cream cheese before baking.
Variations
1. Fruit-Filled Cheese Danishes
Add 1 teaspoon of fruit preserves (like strawberry, raspberry, or apricot) on top of the cream cheese filling before folding the crescent dough. The fruit adds a burst of sweetness and color to the danish.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Cheese Danishes
Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar over the cream cheese filling before folding the dough for a spiced and sweet flavor.
3. Lemon Cream Cheese Danishes
Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling and drizzle the danishes with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a refreshing citrus twist.
4. Savory Cheese Danishes
For a savory version, omit the sugar and vanilla from the cream cheese filling and mix in herbs like chives, thyme, or dill. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta cheese before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Crescent Cheese Danishes ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the danishes up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate them before baking. When ready to bake, allow them to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking as directed.
Q: How do I store leftover danishes?
Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I freeze Crescent Cheese Danishes?
Yes, you can freeze baked danishes. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes before serving.
Q: Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can make your own puff pastry or homemade crescent dough to use in this recipe. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the danishes while they bake.
Q: Can I add toppings?
Yes! You can add toppings like fresh berries, sliced almonds, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
These Crescent Cheese Danishes are a simple and delightful treat that comes together quickly with the help of refrigerated crescent dough. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these flaky, creamy pastries are sure to impress. Customize them with your favorite flavors and toppings for a homemade bakery-style experience in your own kitchen.
