Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Made with pre-packaged crescent rolls, this recipe comes together effortlessly in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings like blueberries, cherries, pineapple, or apple to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by all ages, these danishes are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy morning treat.
Minimal Ingredients: Requires simple ingredients that are often already in your kitchen.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweetened cream cheese and buttery crescent rolls creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tubes of crescent rolls
1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons butter, fully melted
1 teaspoon lemon juice
¼ cup light brown sugar
½ cup white sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 teaspoons milk

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, use a mixer to combine the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and white sugar until well combined. Set aside.
Slice Crescent Rolls: Open your crescent roll tubes but do not unroll them. Use a sharp knife to cut through them, making thick slices.
Form Danishes: Lay each slice on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Use your fingers or a small measuring cup to create a small wall around the edge to hold the filling.
Add Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the light brown sugar. Brush this mixture over each danish.
Add Filling: Dollop even amounts of the cream cheese filling into the center of each danish.
Bake: Bake at 350°F for 16-18 minutes or until slightly golden brown.
Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Stir until smooth.
Glaze Danishes: Let the danishes cool slightly, then drizzle the glaze over each warm danish.
Serve: Enjoy warm, optionally topped with cherry, blueberry, or strawberry filling.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes approximately 12 danishes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

Fruit Toppings: Add a spoonful of your favorite fruit preserves or pie fillings, such as cherry, blueberry, or strawberry, on top of the cream cheese mixture before baking.
Flavored Cream Cheese: Experiment with different flavored cream cheeses like strawberry or chive for a unique twist.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds over the glaze for added crunch.
Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
Savory Option: Use a savory cream cheese and top with herbs or cooked bacon bits for a savory version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place danishes in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the danishes from becoming soggy?

Ensure that the danishes are baked until golden brown and allow them to cool on a wire rack to prevent condensation from making them soggy.

Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, you can use homemade puff pastry or crescent dough if you prefer. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Is it necessary to add the glaze?

The glaze adds extra sweetness and a nice finish, but you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet danish.

Can I freeze these danishes?

Yes, you can freeze the baked danishes. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

What other fillings can I use?

You can use various fillings such as Nutella, almond paste, or lemon curd to change up the flavor.

How can I make these danishes healthier?

Use reduced-fat cream cheese and consider reducing the amount of sugar in the filling and glaze. You can also add fresh fruit toppings for natural sweetness.

Can I prepare these danishes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the danishes up to the baking step, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh the next morning.

What should I do if the cream cheese filling is too runny?

If the filling is too runny, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm it up before filling the danishes.

Can I add chocolate to these danishes?

Yes, adding chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling or drizzling melted chocolate over the baked danishes can be a delicious addition.

How do I know when the danishes are done baking?

The danishes are done when they are golden brown on the edges and the filling is set. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

Conclusion

Crescent Cheese Danishes are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. With their flaky crust and creamy filling, they offer a homemade taste with minimal effort. Customize them with your favorite toppings and enjoy the deliciousness!