This Easy Cream Cheese Danish is the perfect quick and delicious pastry to make at home. With a flaky crescent roll crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a touch of sweetness, these danishes are simple yet indulgent. They’re ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Made with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these cream cheese danishes will make your mornings feel extra special without much effort.
Whether you’re serving them to guests or just treating yourself, these danishes are guaranteed to impress. The cream cheese filling is rich and smooth, while the crescent dough creates a golden, flaky crust that makes every bite delicious.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- Optional: fresh berries or jam for filling
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough
- Open the can of crescent roll dough and separate it into 4 rectangles. Pinch the seams together on each rectangle to seal them completely.
- Using your hands, shape each rectangle into a rough oval or circle, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each dough rectangle. Spread the filling slightly, leaving a border around the edges.
- If desired, add a teaspoon of jam or a few fresh berries on top of the cream cheese filling.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are golden brown and the filling is set.
- Remove from the oven and allow the danishes to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled danishes before serving.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- Sealing the Dough: Pinch the seams of the crescent roll dough well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Adding Fruit: You can add a small dollop of your favorite jam or a few fresh berries to each danish before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Fruit Danish: Add a teaspoon of raspberry or strawberry jam on top of the cream cheese filling for a fruit-flavored variation.
- Lemon Danish: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top of the cream cheese filling before baking for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these danishes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these danishes ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Q: Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?
A: Absolutely! Puff pastry works well as a substitute for crescent roll dough. Just make sure to thaw it according to package instructions before using.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
These Easy Cream Cheese Danish pastries are a quick and delightful way to bring a touch of sweetness to your day. With their creamy, rich filling and flaky crescent roll crust, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up whenever you’re in the mood for something special. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comfort of a homemade danish in no time!
