If you’ve ever wanted to whip up a bakery-worthy treat right in your own kitchen, the Crescent Roll Can Cheese Danishes Recipe is the perfect go-to. This delightful pastry combines the flaky, buttery layers of crescent roll dough with a luscious, creamy cheese filling that’s sweetened just right—creating a warm, comforting bite that feels fancy but comes together in no time at all. Whether you’re treating yourself to a weekend breakfast or entertaining guests with a lovely dessert, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser full of buttery, creamy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, everyday ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of richness, sweetness, and a hint of tang. From the soft cream cheese to the golden crescent dough, every element is essential for creating those irresistible Cheese Danishes.
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz): Provides the flaky, buttery layers that form the base of each Danish.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Creates the smooth and creamy filling that’s the star of the show.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the cheese filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, comforting aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional): Gives a subtle tang to balance the richness of the cream cheese.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Used for making the simple glaze that adds a sweet finishing touch.
- 1–2 teaspoons milk (for glaze): Helps thin the powdered sugar into a smooth, drizzle-ready glaze.
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper: Keeps your baking sheet clean and makes sure the danishes release effortlessly.
How to Make Crescent Roll Can Cheese Danishes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with nonstick spray. This prep guarantees your danishes bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and separate it carefully into four rectangles. To keep everything neat and ensure the filling doesn’t leak out, press the perforations together firmly to seal each rectangle into a solid base. This creates the perfect little canvas for your cheesy filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and if you like, a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing. Mix everything until completely smooth and creamy. This filling is what makes these danishes so addictive, with its sweet and tangy richness.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
Spread about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture right in the center of each crescent rectangle. You can keep the corners open for a rustic, inviting look or gently fold in the edges for a more polished, enclosed shape. Either way, they’ll puff up beautifully as they bake.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your assembled danishes onto the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and your kitchen smells like a dreamy bakery. The crust should be flaky and the filling just set.
Step 6: Prepare the Sweet Glaze
While your danishes are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth and pourable. This simple glaze is what gives the final touch of sweetness and a beautiful shine, making these treats look as good as they taste.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Once the danishes have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. The combination of warm, soft pastry with the cool sweetness of the glaze is simply irresistible. Now you’re ready to enjoy a homemade delight that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Crescent Roll Can Cheese Danishes Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries on top can elevate these Cheese Danishes visually and flavor-wise. You can even add a small dollop of your favorite jam directly on the filling before baking for a fruity surprise that’s bursting with color and taste.
Side Dishes
These danishes are wonderfully versatile and pair beautifully with morning coffee or tea for a charming breakfast spread. For a more robust meal, serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a small salad to balance the rich sweetness with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, arrange them on a pretty platter sprinkled with edible flowers or herbs like mint. You can also layer them with slices of smoked salmon and a sprinkle of chives for a unique savory take that plays wonderfully with the cream cheese base.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any danishes left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making them a perfect breakfast treat that can be enjoyed later.
Freezing
You can freeze these danishes either baked or unbaked. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Frozen, they will keep well for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked feeling, reheat your danishes in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes. This method keeps the pastry flaky and warms the filling perfectly without making the dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I substitute the crescent roll dough with puff pastry?
Absolutely! Puff pastry will give you an even flakier and slightly crispier Danish, although it’s a bit less buttery than crescent dough. Either way, your Cheese Danishes will turn out fantastic.
What can I add to the cream cheese filling to change the flavor?
Try mixing in lemon zest, cinnamon, or a spoonful of jam. Each variation adds a unique twist, offering a burst of fresh flavor or warmth to suit your taste preferences.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan crescent dough available at many stores. Just check the packaging to ensure these substitutes will bake nicely in your oven.
How long should I let the danishes cool before glazing?
About five minutes of cooling is perfect. The pastry should be warm but not hot, so the glaze stays on top without melting away, giving you that beautiful glossy finish.
Can I make these danishes ahead of time and bake them later?
Definitely! Assemble them on your baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just pop them into the oven straight from the fridge, adding a couple extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about creating bakery-style treats at home, and the Crescent Roll Can Cheese Danishes Recipe makes it so easy to impress yourself and others with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Crisp, tender dough wrapped around a sweet and creamy filling—these danishes are perfect for any occasion from a quick breakfast to a festive brunch. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch these golden beauties become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Crescent Roll Can Cheese Danishes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 danishes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crescent Roll Can Cheese Danishes are a quick and easy homemade pastry perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made with refrigerated crescent roll dough and a creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, they bake up golden and flaky with a simple powdered sugar glaze. Add a fruity twist by topping with your favorite jam. Enjoy these warm, soft danishes as a delightful treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Danish Dough
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Glaze
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons milk
Other
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare dough rectangles. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into four rectangles by pressing the perforations together to seal.
- Make cream cheese filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble danishes. Spread about one tablespoon of the cream cheese filling onto the center of each dough rectangle. Either fold in the corners slightly for a more contained look or leave them open for a rustic appearance.
- Bake danishes. Place the prepared danishes on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until they are a beautiful golden brown color.
- Prepare glaze. While the danishes bake, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl to create a simple glaze. Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired consistency.
- Finish and serve. Allow the baked danishes to cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over the top. Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Add a teaspoon of your favorite jam on top of the cream cheese filling before baking for a fruity variation.
- Best enjoyed warm but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers gently in a toaster oven to restore crispiness.
