Crescent Cheese Danishes

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles. Place the triangles on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Add the Filling: Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Spread it slightly, but avoid going all the way to the edges.
  5. Shape the Danishes: Starting at the wide end, roll up each triangle, tucking the sides in slightly to encase the filling. Curve the rolled dough into a crescent shape or leave them straight for a traditional Danish look.
  6. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the tops of the danishes with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the danishes are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
  8. Prepare the Glaze: While the danishes are baking, mix the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
  9. Glaze the Danishes: Once the danishes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm danishes before serving.

Tips and Tricks

  • Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
  • Fruit Fillings: Add a teaspoon of your favorite fruit preserves or pie filling on top of the cream cheese for a fruity twist.
  • Customize the Shape: Experiment with different shapes and designs, such as pinwheels or twists, to add variety.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the cream cheese filling in advance and refrigerate until ready to use for quicker assembly.

Recipe Variations

  • Berry Danish: Add a dollop of raspberry, blueberry, or strawberry preserves on top of the cream cheese before rolling up the dough.
  • Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, over the cream cheese filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Lemon Danish: Mix a teaspoon of lemon zest into the cream cheese filling for a fresh, citrusy flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them:

  • Refrigerate: Place any leftover danishes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: To enjoy them warm, reheat the danishes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

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