Easy Cheese Danish
If you’ve ever walked into a bakery and been greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly baked pastries, you know how irresistible a cheese danish can be. Imagine that warm, flaky dough filled with a creamy, sweet cheese mixture, and just a hint of fruity jam on top. Now, envision making that delightful treat in your own kitchen with minimal effort. This Easy Cheese Danish recipe is here to make your dreams come true! With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a bakery-worthy pastry that will impress your family and friends.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Easy Cheese Danish recipe stands out for its simplicity and delicious results. It uses refrigerated crescent roll dough, which eliminates the need for complicated dough-making processes. The cream cheese filling is rich yet balanced by just the right amount of sweetness, making it universally appealing. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various tastes by simply swapping out the jam or adding different toppings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is sure to deliver satisfying results every time.
Ingredient Rundown
To make the most delicious Easy Cheese Danish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened: This is the star of the show, creating a rich and creamy filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cheese filling.
- ¾ cup granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese and balances the tartness.
- Two 8-ounce tubes refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides a flaky, buttery base for the danish.
- ½ cup seedless raspberry or apricot jam: Offers a fruity contrast to the creamy filling.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Used for an egg wash to create a beautiful golden finish.
- 4 ounces sliced almonds: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Equipment & Tools
To whip up this Easy Cheese Danish, gather the following tools:
- Baking sheet: A standard size works perfectly for baking the danishes.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowl: For blending the cream cheese filling.
- Whisk or electric mixer: To beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash.
From Start to Finish: Easy Cheese Danish
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your danishes bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. You can use a whisk or an electric mixer for this step. Make sure there are no lumps for a silky filling.
Step 3: Unroll the Crescent Dough
Open the tubes of refrigerated crescent roll dough and carefully unroll them. You’ll want to separate them into four rectangles, pinching any seams together if necessary to create a cohesive dough.
Step 4: Shape the Danish
On a parchment-lined baking sheet, lay out the rectangles of dough. Using a knife, gently score a border around each rectangle, about ½ inch from the edge. This will help form a little well for the filling.
Step 5: Fill with Cream Cheese Mixture
Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese filling into the center of each rectangle, spreading it out evenly within the scored border.
Step 6: Add the Jam
Top the cream cheese filling with a dollop of your chosen jam. The combination of the sweet cheese and tangy jam is heavenly!
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg. This will give your Easy Cheese Danish a beautiful golden finish as it bakes.
Step 8: Sprinkle with Almonds
Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of the jam and cheese filling, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the danishes are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, but they can also be stored for later!
Seasonal Serving Ideas
- Serve warm for breakfast during winter holidays, paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Perfect for spring brunches, especially when made with fresh fruit jams.
- Top with seasonal berries during summer for a refreshing twist.
- Drizzle with a light glaze of powdered sugar and milk for a festive touch during celebrations.
Chef’s Rationale
The beauty of this Easy Cheese Danish lies in its flexibility. The use of crescent roll dough not only simplifies the process but also guarantees a flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. This recipe encourages creativity; feel free to swap out the jam for your favorite flavors or add spices like cinnamon for an extra kick. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you want to prepare your Easy Cheese Danish in advance, you can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the danishes just before baking for the best texture and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh, flaky quality.
Common Qs About Easy Cheese Danish
Can I use a different type of dough?
Absolutely! While the crescent roll dough is convenient, you can use puff pastry or phyllo dough for a different texture. Just keep in mind that baking times may vary.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, mascarpone cheese or ricotta can be used in place of cream cheese. Just adjust the sugar accordingly, as some alternatives may be sweeter or less sweet than cream cheese.
Can I freeze the Easy Cheese Danish?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked danishes. Assemble them, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I make my danishes more flavorful?
Consider adding lemon zest, almond extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese filling. These little enhancements can elevate the flavor profile significantly!
Reader Favorites
- Blueberry Cheese Danish by Sally’s Baking Addiction
- Simple Rhubarb Cheese Danish by Pinch of Yum
- Easy Danish Pastry by Minimalist Baker
In Closing
This Easy Cheese Danish is a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it captures the essence of bakery-style pastries right in your home kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, each bite is sure to bring a smile to your face. So, roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness that is Easy Cheese Danish!
Easy Cheese Danish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Open the tubes of refrigerated crescent roll dough and carefully unroll them, separating them into four rectangles.
- On a parchment-lined baking sheet, lay out the rectangles of dough, scoring a border around each rectangle.
- Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese filling into the center of each rectangle.
- Top the cream cheese filling with a dollop of your chosen jam.
- Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of the jam and cheese filling.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the danishes are puffed and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for easier prep.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain freshness.
