Cream Cheese Crescent Danishes A Heavenly Easy Bake Delight

by

Cream Cheese Crescent Danishes A Heavenly Easy Bake Delight

Introduction

There’s something magical about biting into a warm, flaky pastry filled with creamy, sweetened cheese. The Cream Cheese Crescent Danish is a shortcut to that magic — no need to be a professional baker or spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe uses crescent roll dough, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla to create danish pastries that are as good as (if not better than) your favorite bakery.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a cozy coffee treat, these danishes come together in under 30 minutes and will have everyone asking for more.

History of the Danish Pastry

The Danish pastry, or “Wienerbrød,” actually originates from Austria. It was brought to Denmark by Austrian bakers in the 19th century and quickly became a staple of Danish baking. Traditional Danish pastries are made from laminated dough with layers of butter, much like croissants. Over time, countless varieties have emerged, often filled with fruit, nuts, or — you guessed it — sweetened cream cheese.

The Cream Cheese Danish became especially popular in American bakeries in the mid-20th century. The version we’re making today is a modern twist, using crescent roll dough to make it quick and accessible.

Ingredients

  • 1 package of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls (8 count)
  • 1 block (8 oz) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 tbsp milk (for glaze)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla (for glaze)
  • Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions & Methods

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat & Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Shape the Dough

  • Open the crescent roll package and separate the dough into 8 triangles.
  • Pinch the perforated seams to close them, then shape each triangle into a circle, folding edges slightly to create a shallow cup.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Mix until smooth and creamy.

4. Fill the Danishes

  • Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling into the center of each crescent round.
  • If desired, brush the exposed dough with beaten egg for a golden finish.

5. Bake

  • Bake at 375°F for 13–15 minutes, or until golden brown.

6. Make the Glaze

  • In a small bowl, whisk:
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Drizzle over warm danishes after baking.

Formation Tips

  • Keep the cream cheese at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Shape the dough evenly to keep the filling from spilling over.
  • Want fruit? Add a teaspoon of jam or pie filling on top of the cream cheese before baking.

Benefits

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • No fancy equipment needed.
  • Customizable: Add fruit, nuts, or cinnamon.
  • Crowd-pleaser: Great for breakfast buffets, brunches, or potlucks.
  • Kid-friendly: Sweet, soft, and fun to make together.

Nutrition (Per Danish – Approximate)

NutrientAmount
Calories210–250 kcal
Protein3–5g
Carbohydrates18–22g
Fat14–16g
Sugar9–12g
Calcium4% DV

Note: Values vary depending on brand and added toppings.

For the Lovers of Pastries…

Pastry lovers, this one’s for you. If you crave the tender flake of a croissant and the creamy richness of cheesecake, you’re about to meet your new obsession. These danishes are:

  • Romantic enough for a breakfast-in-bed.
  • Elegant enough for a holiday spread.
  • Comforting enough for a solo coffee break.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Crescent Danish recipe is the ultimate fusion of ease and indulgence. With store-bought dough and a homemade touch, you’ll whip up something that looks and tastes gourmet. Whether you’re baking for your family, brunching with friends, or treating yourself, this recipe will become a repeat star in your kitchen.

Leave a Comment