Crescent Roll Danish
This Crescent Roll Danish recipe is a quick and easy homemade treat combining flaky, buttery crescent roll dough with a creamy sweetened cream cheese filling and a touch of fruit preserves. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or last-minute dessert, it delivers delightful layers and customizable flavors to impress without the fuss.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Crescent Roll Dough
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 count)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit Filling
- 2 tablespoons fruit preserves or jam (raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or berry jam recommended)
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon water
Optional Garnishes
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Simple glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice)
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: Combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring the sugar fully dissolves for a silky texture perfect for spreading.
- Unroll and Separate Crescent Rolls: Gently unroll the crescent dough and separate the pre-scored triangles. For extra flaky layers, pinch seams slightly but keep the dough flexible enough to fold.
- Add the Filling and Preserve: Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto each triangle, then add a dollop of your favorite fruit preserves on top. Be careful not to overload to prevent soggy layers.
- Fold and Shape: Starting at the wide end, carefully roll each triangle towards the pointed tip, creating the classic crescent shape with the filling enclosed inside.
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush each rolled Danish with an egg wash made by whisking one egg with a teaspoon of water for a beautiful golden shine. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Danish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, drizzle with glaze or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
Notes
- Use cream cheese softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Keep fruit preserves light to avoid soggy pastry and leaking during baking.
- Brush egg wash evenly on edges and tops for uniform browning and shine.
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Oven temperatures vary; check early to avoid over-browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 danish
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: crescent roll danish, cream cheese danish, quick breakfast, easy desserts, flaky pastry, homemade danish, crescent roll recipe, fruit filled danish