Flaky, golden-brown crescent rolls filled with a creamy sweetened cheese filling and drizzled with a light glaze—these crescent cheese danishes are a perfect breakfast, brunch, or dessert treat. Quick to prepare and versatile, they are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Make: Pre-made crescent roll dough saves time and effort.
Deliciously Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or as a sweet dessert.
Customizable: Add fruit preserves or spices to elevate the flavors.
Perfect for Sharing: Makes 16 danishes, enough for gatherings or meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Danish

2 cans crescent roll dough
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup light brown sugar

For the Glaze

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
4 tsp milk

Directions

1. Prep the Oven and Dough

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, lemon juice, vanilla, and sugar until smooth.

3. Shape the Dough

Keep the crescent roll dough in its roll.
Slice into 1-inch rounds (8 slices per can).
Arrange rounds on the baking sheet and create a small indentation in the center of each.

4. Fill and Brush

Mix melted butter with brown sugar. Brush over the dough.
Spoon cream cheese filling into the indentations.

5. Bake

Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly.

6. Add Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over warm danishes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16 danishes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes

Variations

Fruit Preserves: Add a dollop of raspberry or apricot preserves atop the cream cheese filling.
Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on the filling for a cozy flavor.
Nut Toppings: Add crushed pecans, walnuts, or almonds for crunch.
Chocolate Drizzle: Replace the glaze with melted chocolate for a rich finish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep danishes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What type of crescent roll dough works best?

Use regular crescent roll dough; avoid filled or flavored varieties.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the danishes and refrigerate them unbaked. Bake fresh when needed.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but the filling may be slightly less creamy. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture.

How do I keep the filling from spilling over?

Ensure the indentations are deep enough to hold the filling securely.

Can I add fruit to these danishes?

Absolutely! Add a small spoonful of fruit preserves or fresh berries to the filling.

Can I freeze these?

Yes, freeze baked and cooled danishes for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

Can I use puff pastry instead?

Yes, but monitor closely as puff pastry may bake faster than crescent roll dough.

How do I thicken the glaze?

Add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.

Are these suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make mini versions?

Yes! Cut the dough into smaller rounds and reduce the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Crescent cheese danishes are a foolproof recipe to enjoy bakery-style pastries at home. With minimal prep and versatile options, they’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Share them with loved ones, or enjoy them all to yourself—these treats are a guaranteed favorite!

Crescent Cheese Danishes

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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