Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Roll Out the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles. Place the triangles on the prepared baking sheet.
- 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.
- 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.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the tops of the danishes with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the danishes are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
- 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.
- 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.