Crescent Cheese Danishes: A Sweet and Flaky Breakfast Treat
Crescent Cheese Danishes are a delightful breakfast pastry that marries the buttery, flaky goodness of crescent rolls with a rich and creamy cheese filling. These mini danishes are not only easy to make but also a surefire way to start your day with a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or simply enjoying a cozy morning at home, join us as we explore the recipe for Crescent Cheese Danishes that will make your taste buds sing.
Ingredients:
For the Crescent Cheese Danishes:
- 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Fruit preserves or jam of your choice (e.g., raspberry, apricot, or strawberry)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Crescent Cheese Danishes:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the crescent roll package (usually 375°F or 190°C).
- Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface. You’ll typically find the dough divided into triangles.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Take each crescent roll triangle and place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center.
- If desired, add a small dollop of fruit preserves or jam on top of the cream cheese filling.
- Fold the corners of the crescent roll triangle over the filling, creating a little bundle or pocket. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the filled crescent roll pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
- Bake in the preheated oven for the time specified on the crescent roll package, or until the danishes are golden brown and puffed.
Prepare the Glaze: 9. While the danishes are baking, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth and drizzleable consistency. Adjust the milk or sugar as needed.
Glaze and Serve: 10. Once the Crescent Cheese Danishes are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm danishes for a sweet finishing touch.
- Serve your Crescent Cheese Danishes while they’re still warm and enjoy the flaky layers and creamy cheese filling.
Cook’s Notes:
- Experiment with different fruit preserves or jams to create a variety of flavors. Raspberry, apricot, and strawberry are classic choices, but you can get creative with your favorite options.
- For a little extra texture and flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or pecans) over the cream cheese filling before folding the crescent roll dough.
- If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can substitute milk for lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- These danishes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated briefly in the oven or microwave.
Crescent Cheese Danishes are a delightful way to start your morning with a touch of sweetness and a whole lot of flaky goodness. With their creamy cheese filling and fruit preserves, they are the perfect addition to a breakfast spread or a cozy weekend brunch. So, whip up a batch of these mini danishes, and let the irresistible aroma and flavor of freshly baked pastries brighten your day.