Crescent Cheese Danishes

These Crescent Cheese Danishes are a quick and easy way to enjoy a bakery-style treat at home. With creamy, sweet cream cheese filling nestled inside buttery crescent roll dough, these danishes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze, they’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat!

Ingredients

For the Danishes:

• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a hint of tang)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for brushing)

For the Icing:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough

1. Open the can of crescent rolls and gently unroll the dough. Separate it into 8 individual triangles .
2. Arrange the triangles on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for spreading during baking.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese , granulated sugar , vanilla extract , and lemon juice (if using).
2. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. This filling is the star of the danish, so make sure it’s well-mixed for the best texture and flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Danishes

1. Take about 1–2 tablespoons of the cream cheese filling and place it at the wide end of each crescent triangle.
2. Carefully fold the pointed end of the dough over the filling and tuck it under the wide end to seal the shape. This helps keep the filling contained during baking.

Step 5: Brush with Butter (Optional)

1. For an extra golden and flavorful crust, brush the tops of your assembled danishes lightly with melted butter . This step is optional but highly recommended for a bakery-style finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes , or until the danishes are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
2. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.

Step 7: Make the Icing

1. While the danishes are cooling, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar , milk , and vanilla extract .
2. Adjust the milk quantity (1–2 tablespoons) to achieve a thin consistency suitable for drizzling.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

1. Once the danishes have cooled to a warm (but not hot) temperature, drizzle the icing generously over the tops.
2. Use a spoon for a rustic look or a piping bag for more precise drizzles.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Crescent Cheese Danishes!

Tips for Success

• Dough Tip: If your crescent roll dough doesn’t separate into triangles easily, press the seams together gently to create a solid base for the filling.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the danishes ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crescent Cheese Danishes are a quick and effortless way to bring the charm of a bakery to your kitchen. The buttery crescent roll dough pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy, and slightly tangy cream cheese filling, while the sweet glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these danishes are sure to impress. Dive into this buttery, sweet treat and savor every bite!