Crescent Cream Cheese Danishes

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There’s something truly magical about the combination of flaky pastry and creamy, sweet cheese. Our Crescent Cream Cheese Danishes bring this delightful duo to life in a way that’s both simple and satisfying. Imagine biting into a tender, golden pastry with a luscious cream cheese center, all drizzled with a delicate icing. It’s a treat that feels like a luxurious bakery indulgence but is easily made in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for cheese lovers and pastry fans alike. It’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of crescent roll dough, and delivers all the rich flavors and textures you crave. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast delight or a sweet snack, this cream cheese danish will undoubtedly become a favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spoon
• Knife

Ingredients

For the Danish:

• 8 ounces crescent rolls (XL Grands! Crescents work best because they are a larger size)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons milk or water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and white sugar. Whip until light and fluffy, then set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or water to create the icing. Set aside to thicken (optional).
4. On a cutting board, unwrap your crescent dough tube and slice the dough into 8 equal discs.
5. Place each disc on the baking sheet. Stretch each portion to create a larger disc and make a depression in the center for the filling.
6. Mix the melted butter and brown sugar in a small dish. Brush each dough circle with the butter/sugar mixture.
7. Fill each crescent center with a generous dollop of cream cheese, spreading it neatly with the back of a clean spoon.
8. Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F, until the crescents are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
9. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before drizzling icing over each Danish (optional).

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is well softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Press down the center of the dough discs firmly to create enough space for the filling.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a fruit twist, add a spoonful of your favorite jam on top of the cream cheese before baking.
• Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on the buttered dough for extra flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of Crescent Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying treat that pairs well with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use homemade crescent dough? Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade recipe, feel free to use it instead of store-bought dough.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze these danishes? Yes, you can freeze them before adding the icing. Reheat in the oven and drizzle with fresh icing before serving.

Conclusion

These Crescent Cream Cheese Danishes are a delicious way to experience the joy of homemade pastries without any fuss. I invite you to try this recipe and share your creations with friends and family. Let us know how it turns out, and don’t forget to share your own variations and tips in the comments!

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