Imagine walking into a cozy kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked pastries. The buttery scent of crescent rolls mingles with the sweet, tart fragrance of cherry filling, creating an atmosphere that beckons for a delightful treat. This Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Danish, also known as Cherry Danish Braid, is not just another pastry; it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary day into something special. With its flaky layers and creamy filling, this Danish braid is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack to enjoy any time of the day. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, allowing you to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just indulging in a quiet moment with coffee, this recipe brings joy with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Danish is a standout choice for several reasons. First and foremost, the blend of textures is heavenly. The flaky, golden crust gives way to a smooth, creamy filling that is perfectly complemented by the burst of flavor from the cherry topping. Each bite offers a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Additionally, the preparation is incredibly straightforward. Utilizing pre-made crescent roll dough means you can whip up this delicious pastry in a fraction of the time it would take to make dough from scratch. This makes it an ideal recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking to save time. Furthermore, the visual appeal of the braided design makes it a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion. Its golden hue and glossy finish, adorned with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing, elevate your dessert table effortlessly. Lastly, the versatility of this recipe allows you to switch up the fruit fillings, making it easy to cater to your taste preferences or seasonal produce availability. With all these enticing attributes, it’s no wonder this Danish braid has become a beloved favorite!

Ingredients:

To create the perfect Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Danish, you’ll need a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz each) – The base of your Danish, this dough is buttery, flaky, and ready to roll out for convenience.
8 oz cream cheese, softened – This will form the creamy filling, providing a rich and smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cherries.

1/2 cup granulated sugar – This adds the necessary sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries and enhance the cream cheese flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla brings depth to the filling, enhancing the overall taste profile.
1 can of cherry pie filling (21 oz) – This will serve as the fruity topping, adding a burst of flavor and color to your Danish.

1 egg (for egg wash) – This will give your pastry a beautiful golden-brown finish, making it visually appealing.
Powdered sugar (for dusting) – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to the finished product.

For the cream cheese filling, you can also consider incorporating a bit of lemon zest for a refreshing twist or a dash of almond extract for a unique flavor profile. With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a delicious Danish braid that’s sure to impress!

How To Make Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Danish (Cherry Danish Braid)?

Creating this delightful Danish braid is an enjoyable process that will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect outcome:

Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Danish will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden color.

Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Roll out the crescent dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press the seams together to form a solid rectangle. Repeat with the second can, overlapping slightly to ensure it is well connected.
Add the cream cheese filling: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges to prevent overflow during baking.

Add the cherry filling: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, distributing it evenly but being careful not to add too much, as this can make it soggy.
Prepare the braid: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart along the edges of the dough, cutting towards the filling. This will create flaps to fold over the filling.
Braid the dough: Starting from one end, fold the strips of dough over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided effect. Gently press the ends to seal.

Brush with egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the top of the braided dough. This will give it a beautiful golden-brown color as it bakes.
Bake the Danish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the Danish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat!

Tips For Variations:

While the classic Cherry Danish Braid is undeniably delicious, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste or the season. Here are some unique variation ideas:

Fruit Fillings: Instead of cherry pie filling, consider using other fruit fillings such as blueberry, raspberry, or apple. Each fruit brings a unique flavor and character to the Danish. You can also use fresh fruit; however, make sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Flavored Cream Cheese: Elevate the cream cheese filling by mixing in different flavors. Try adding a tablespoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist, or incorporate a bit of almond extract for a richer flavor. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips for a decadent treat.

Nutty Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, over the cream cheese filling before adding the fruit. This will provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy and fruity layers.
Glaze Options: Instead of just dusting with powdered sugar, you can create a simple glaze using powdered sugar and milk. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled Danish for extra sweetness and a professional finish.
Mini Danishes: For bite-sized treats, consider making mini Danish pastries. Roll out the crescent dough and cut it into squares, then fill and braid as described. These mini versions are perfect for parties or as a grab-and-go snack.

Serving Suggestions:

This Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Danish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience:

With Coffee or Tea: Pair your Danish with a warm cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. The combination of flavors makes for a delightful morning or afternoon treat. Consider serving it alongside a rich cappuccino or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect balance.

At Brunch Buffets: This Danish braid is a fantastic addition to any brunch buffet. Serve it alongside other favorites like quiches, fruit salads, and breakfast casseroles. Its eye-catching appearance will surely draw guests in, and its flavors will keep them coming back for more.
As a Dessert: Transform this Danish into a dessert by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat of the pastry combined with the cold ice cream creates a delicious contrast that is simply irresistible.
Garnished with Fresh Fruit: For a beautiful presentation, serve your Danish with a side of fresh berries or sliced fruits. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also provides a fresh contrast to the rich pastry.

Gift Giving: Consider wrapping a portion of the Danish in a decorative box or packaging for a thoughtful homemade gift. It’s a lovely way to share your baking talents with friends and family, perfect for holidays or special occasions.

FAQ:

Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent roll dough?

Yes, you can use homemade dough if you prefer! Just ensure it’s rolled out to a similar thickness as crescent roll dough for even baking.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I freeze the Danish after baking?

Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the Danish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What other fillings can I use besides cherries?

Feel free to experiment with various fillings! Options like peach, apricot, or even a combination of fruits work well and add new flavor dimensions.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! The Crescent Roll Cream Cheese Danish is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or brunch gatherings, impressing guests with its taste and presentation.