Transform your breakfast routine with this incredibly simple crescent roll cream cheese danish that delivers bakery-quality results in just 30 minutes. We’ve discovered the perfect shortcut that combines buttery crescent roll dough with rich cream cheese filling to create an irresistible morning treat that’ll have your family begging for more.
This foolproof recipe requires only five basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The magic happens when flaky crescent roll dough meets our perfectly sweetened cream cheese mixture – creating those beautiful golden pastries with delicate layers and a lusciously creamy center.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or need a quick weekday breakfast solution, these danishes prove that homemade doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ll show you exactly how to achieve that professional bakery look while keeping the process so simple that even beginners can master it on their first try.
Ingredients
Our crescent roll cream cheese danish recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. We’ve organized these ingredients by component to make preparation seamless and efficient.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Danish
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
Having the right tools makes preparing these delicious cream cheese danishes effortless and ensures professional results every time. We recommend gathering all equipment before starting to streamline the baking process.
Essential Mixing Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl for combining cream cheese filling ingredients
- Hand mixer or electric stand mixer to achieve smooth, lump-free filling
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient proportions
- Small whisk or spoon for preparing the glaze
Baking Preparation Tools:
- Standard baking sheet (half-sheet pan works perfectly)
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and even browning
- Silicone pastry brush for applying melted butter to dough edges
- Cooling rack to prevent soggy bottoms after baking
Temperature and Timing Equipment:
- Oven thermometer to verify 350°F accuracy
- Kitchen timer to track the 13-16 minute baking window
Most home kitchens already contain these basic tools. The silicone pastry brush proves particularly valuable for evenly distributing melted butter without tearing the delicate crescent dough. We find that using parchment paper creates superior browning compared to greasing the pan directly.
| Equipment Type | Essential Items | Optional Upgrades |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing | Hand mixer, large bowl | Stand mixer, multiple bowls |
| Baking | Baking sheet, parchment | Silicone mats, multiple pans |
| Application | Pastry brush | Offset spatula |
| Cooling | Wire rack | Tiered cooling system |
Professional bakers often use offset spatulas for drizzling glaze, but a simple spoon works equally well for home preparation.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly flaky crescent roll danishes with rich cream cheese filling. Each step builds upon the previous one to ensure bakery-quality results.
Prep the Cream Cheese Filling
We start by creating our smooth cream cheese mixture in a large mixing bowl. Combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar using your hand mixer. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the filling appears smooth and creamy. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the mixture and blend until just combined. This flour addition prevents the filling from becoming too runny during baking.
Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper. Open both cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough and carefully unroll each triangle onto your work surface. We recommend keeping the triangles separated for individual danishes rather than pressing the seams together. Brush each triangle lightly with melted butter using your silicone pastry brush. Mix 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough triangles.
Assemble the Danish
Place approximately 1 to 2 tablespoons of cream cheese filling in the center of each crescent roll triangle. We find that using a small spoon helps control the portion size perfectly. Fold the three corners of each triangle toward the center, creating a small pocket around the filling. Press the edges gently to seal the dough and prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Arrange the assembled danishes on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion.
Bake the Danish
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. We monitor the danishes closely during the final few minutes of baking. The pastries are ready when the dough turns golden brown and the filling appears set but not overly firm. Remove from the oven and transfer the baking sheet to a cooling rack. Allow the danishes to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the glaze.
Make the Glaze
Combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of whole milk in a medium bowl. Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Whisk the ingredients together until the glaze becomes smooth and flows easily from the whisk. We adjust the consistency by adding an additional tablespoon of milk if the glaze appears too thick. The perfect glaze should coat the back of a spoon but still drizzle smoothly.
Finish and Serve
Drizzle the prepared glaze over the slightly cooled danishes using a spoon or small whisk. We recommend serving the danishes while they remain warm for the best texture and flavor experience. The cream cheese filling should be creamy and slightly warm, while the pastry maintains its flaky exterior. Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Tips for Perfect Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Danish
Achieving bakery-quality results requires attention to several key preparation and baking techniques. We’ve discovered that proper ingredient preparation makes the biggest difference in creating smooth, professional-looking danishes.
Start with room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest filling possible. Cold cream cheese creates lumps that resist mixing, even with vigorous beating. We recommend removing the cream cheese from the refrigerator 45 minutes before beginning preparation to ensure optimal consistency.
Press crescent roll seams together firmly when creating your base layer. The perforated lines in refrigerated dough can cause filling to leak through during baking. We gently roll over the seams with our fingers or a rolling pin to create a solid foundation that holds the cream cheese mixture securely.
Spread the filling evenly across the entire surface for consistent flavor in every bite. Uneven distribution creates some pieces with too much filling and others with too little. We use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to achieve uniform coverage, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges.
Brush the top layer with melted butter before baking for enhanced golden color. This simple step creates the professional appearance that makes homemade danishes look bakery-fresh. We apply the butter with a pastry brush in gentle, even strokes.
Monitor baking time carefully since oven temperatures can vary. Our danishes typically require 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F, but we check for golden brown color rather than relying solely on timing. The top should be firm to gentle touch and uniformly colored.
Cool completely before applying glaze to prevent melting and achieve the best visual presentation. Hot pastries cause powdered sugar glazes to become thin and runny. We wait at least 20 minutes after removing from the oven before drizzling our vanilla glaze over the surface.
Use parchment paper or foil to line your baking sheet for easy removal and cleanup. This prevents sticking and allows us to transfer the finished danishes without breaking or tearing the delicate pastry layers.
Storage Instructions
We’ve designed these crescent roll cream cheese danishes to stay fresh and delicious even after baking day. Proper storage keeps the cream cheese filling safe while maintaining that perfect flaky texture we all love.
Refrigeration
Our freshly baked danishes need refrigeration due to the cream cheese filling. We recommend allowing your cooled danishes to reach room temperature before transferring them to storage containers. Place the pastries in ziplock bags or sealed containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days. This storage method preserves both flavor and food safety standards.
Freezing
We can extend the life of our cream cheese danishes by freezing them for up to 3 to 4 months. Wrap each danish tightly in an airtight container or use parchment paper to separate individual pastries and prevent sticking. When we’re ready to enjoy our frozen danishes, we thaw them at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours or reheat them directly from frozen.
Reheating
We achieve the best results when reheating our stored danishes using gentle heat methods. Place the pastries in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and warm the cream cheese filling. Alternatively, we can microwave individual danishes for 15 to 30 seconds in increments until they reach our desired temperature.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 5-7 days | Standard fridge temp |
| Freezing | 3-4 months | 0°F or below |
| Reheating (Oven) | 5-8 minutes | 350°F |
| Reheating (Microwave) | 15-30 seconds | Medium power |
Storage Tips
We always use sealed containers to maintain maximum freshness and prevent our danishes from absorbing refrigerator odors. The cream cheese component requires consistent refrigeration, so we never leave these pastries at room temperature for extended periods. Our storage containers should be appropriately sized to avoid crushing the delicate pastry while ensuring an airtight seal.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
We love how versatile this basic crescent roll cream cheese danish recipe can be with simple additions and modifications. Our testing shows that the five-ingredient base provides an excellent foundation for countless flavor combinations that transform these pastries into exciting new treats.
Berry and Jam Variations
Adding fresh fruit or jam creates vibrant flavors that complement the rich cream cheese filling perfectly. We recommend spooning a dollop of raspberry, strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berry jam directly into the center of each cream cheese portion before folding the crescent dough. Fresh berries work equally well and provide bursts of natural sweetness throughout each bite.
Citrus Enhancements
Brightening the cream cheese mixture with citrus zest and juice elevates the overall flavor profile significantly. We add one teaspoon of lemon zest and one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to our standard filling recipe. Orange zest and juice create a different but equally delicious variation that pairs beautifully with the buttery crescent dough.
Extract Additions
Almond extract transforms these danishes into sophisticated pastries reminiscent of traditional European bakeries. We substitute half the vanilla extract with almond extract or add an additional half teaspoon of vanilla for deeper flavor complexity. These aromatic additions require no other recipe modifications while delivering remarkable taste improvements.
Tart Fruit Spreads
Creating contrast with tart fruit preserves adds professional bakery appeal to homemade danishes. We layer sweet but tart fruit spreads like Bonne Maman INTENSE Red Fruits Fruit Spread on top of the cream cheese filling before baking. This technique produces pronounced fruit notes that balance the richness of the cream cheese base.
Savory Options
Transforming these danishes into savory appetizers opens up brunch and dinner possibilities. We use plain cream cheese without sugar and top each danish with blanched asparagus spears, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Baking time remains the same while creating elegant savory pastries.
Topping Variations
Surface treatments before and after baking provide additional customization opportunities. We sprinkle granulated sugar or pearl sugar on top before baking for extra sweetness and texture. Our standard powdered sugar glaze can be flavored with different extracts or replaced with cream cheese frosting for richer finishing touches.
| Variation Type | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Berry/Jam | Raspberry, strawberry, blueberry jam | Sweet and fruity |
| Citrus Zest | Lemon or orange zest and juice | Bright and refreshing |
| Almond Extract | Almond extract substitution | Sophisticated and aromatic |
| Tart Fruit Spread | Intense fruit preserves | Sweet with tart contrast |
| Savory | Plain cream cheese, asparagus, Parmesan | Savory and elegant |
| Sugar Toppings | Pearl sugar, flavored glazes | Enhanced sweetness |
These variations allow complete customization based on seasonal ingredients, dietary preferences, and occasion requirements while maintaining the simple preparation method that makes this recipe so appealing.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead transforms these delicious danishes from a weekend treat into a convenient weekday option. We can prepare several components in advance to streamline our morning routine while maintaining that fresh-baked taste everyone loves.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling in Advance
Our cream cheese mixture stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembly. We simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the coldest part of our refrigerator. This advance preparation actually improves the filling’s texture as the ingredients meld together overnight.
Complete Assembly and Freeze Before Baking
We can assemble the entire danish up to 2 months ahead without baking. After spreading the cream cheese mixture and adding the top layer of crescent rolls, we skip the egg wash and wrap the unbaked danish tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When ready to bake, we thaw the danish in the refrigerator overnight, brush with egg wash, and bake as directed at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
Store Baked Danishes for Later Enjoyment
Fully baked danishes maintain their quality in the refrigerator for up to 2 days when stored in airtight containers. We can also freeze baked danishes for up to 1 month by wrapping individual portions in plastic wrap and storing them in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, we place frozen danishes in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Timing Considerations for Best Results
We recommend applying the powdered sugar glaze only after reheating to maintain its smooth appearance and prevent it from becoming absorbed into the pastry. The glaze ingredients can be mixed and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, requiring only a quick whisk before drizzling over our warmed danishes.
Conclusion
These crescent roll cream cheese danishes prove that bakery-quality pastries don’t require professional training or hours of preparation. With just five basic ingredients and 30 minutes we can create impressive treats that rival expensive bakery versions.
The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re hosting weekend brunch guests or need a quick weekday breakfast solution the simple preparation and customizable flavors ensure success every time.
We’ve discovered that proper storage techniques and make-ahead options transform this recipe into an even more convenient choice for busy schedules. The ability to freeze assembled danishes or prepare components in advance means fresh homemade pastries are always within reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make crescent roll cream cheese danishes?
These delicious danishes can be prepared and baked in just 30 minutes. The recipe is designed for quick preparation, making it perfect for busy weekday breakfasts or weekend brunches when you want fresh pastries without spending hours in the kitchen.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need five basic components: cream cheese filling (8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg yolk, vanilla, flour), crescent roll dough (2 cans), butter and cinnamon for topping, and glaze ingredients (powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, salt). All ingredients are commonly available at grocery stores.
Can I make these danishes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it refrigerated. Assembled danishes can be frozen for up to 2 months before baking. Baked danishes keep in the refrigerator for 2 days or can be frozen for 1 month.
How should I store leftover danishes?
Store cooled danishes in sealed containers in the refrigerator for 5-7 days due to the cream cheese filling. For longer storage, freeze them for 3-4 months wrapped tightly in airtight containers. Never leave them at room temperature for extended periods as the cream cheese can spoil.
How do I reheat the danishes?
Reheat danishes in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes for best results. For individual servings, microwave for 15-30 seconds. Apply fresh glaze after reheating to maintain appearance. Serve warm for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I customize the flavors?
Absolutely! Add fresh fruit, jam, or citrus zest to the cream cheese filling. Try raspberry, blueberry, or lemon variations. You can also make savory versions with plain cream cheese and toppings like asparagus and Parmesan. Different glazes and sugar toppings offer additional customization options.
What equipment do I need to make these danishes?
Essential equipment includes a large mixing bowl, hand mixer, measuring cups, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush, and cooling rack. An oven thermometer and kitchen timer help ensure perfect results. While professional tools like offset spatulas are nice, basic kitchen equipment works perfectly fine.
Why is my cream cheese filling lumpy?
Lumpy filling typically results from using cold cream cheese. Always use room temperature cream cheese and mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. If your cream cheese is still cold, soften it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before mixing to achieve the perfect consistency.
