Easy Cheese Danishes Shortcut

These Easy Cheese Danishes make bakery-style pastries possible right in your own kitchen. Thanks to ready-made crescent roll dough and a simple sweet cheese filling, you can whip up a batch for breakfast or dessert in under thirty minutes. Whether you are serving guests or just want to enjoy a treat with your coffee, this shortcut recipe guarantees crowd-pleasing results with minimal effort.

I first made these on a lazy Sunday morning when we forgot to pick up something sweet at the bakery. They were so good and easy that now we make them for holidays and special brunches too.

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough: Brings that buttery flaky texture you expect from a danish and saves you time compared to homemade dough. Look for the classic variety without extra flavorings
• Cream cheese: Softened at room temperature for easy blending creates that creamy tangy filling that pairs perfectly with the pastry. Go for full fat for the richest taste
• Granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cheese mixture just enough
• Vanilla extract: Brings a comforting flavor boost to both the filling and glaze. Use pure vanilla for best results
• Salted butter: Melted for brushing keeps the dough tender and adds a little richness
• Light brown sugar: Sprinkled inside each piece for that gooey caramelized bite. Check that it is fresh and soft
• Powdered sugar: Used for the simple glaze on top making every bite a little sweeter
• Milk: Helps thin out the glaze so it drizzles just right

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cheese Filling:

In a medium bowl combine softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until completely smooth with no lumps using a wooden spoon or spatula

Prep the Crescent Dough:

Open the crescent roll tubes and carefully unroll the dough. Separate into eight rectangles by pressing together every two triangles at the perforations. Seal these perforated seams well using your fingers so the filling does not leak out when baking

Add the Butter and Sugar:

Using a soft brush or back of a spoon lightly brush melted butter all over each rectangle of dough. Sprinkle about one tablespoon of light brown sugar across the surface of each one ensuring it covers as evenly as possible

Shape the Danishes:

Start from the long end and gently roll each rectangle into a log. Pinch the seams on the edge to help seal. Hold one end of the log and coil it up into a loose spiral. Gently press the center to make a slight well for the filling

Add the Filling:

Arrange each coil on a lined or greased baking sheet spaced a couple of inches apart. Spoon about two tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into the center well you made earlier

Bake:

Place the tray in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes or until the danishes are puffed and golden with slightly caramelized edges. If they start to brown too quickly loosely cover with foil

Make and Add the Glaze:

While the danishes bake whisk together powdered sugar vanilla extract and milk in a small bowl until the glaze is smooth. Once the danishes come out of the oven let them cool just a couple of minutes then use a spoon to drizzle glaze over each one

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Cream cheese is definitely my favorite part of these danishes and every time I see my kids racing to see who gets the first one out of the oven it reminds me how special these simple recipes can feel together

Storage Tips

These danishes store well in an airtight container at room temperature for a day but for best results chill any extras in the fridge. To reheat microwave for ten to fifteen seconds or warm in the oven so the filling stays creamy and the dough gets crisp again

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of crescent roll dough puff pastry can work but your texture will be lighter and flakier. Swap in mascarpone for cream cheese for a milder flavor or try using lemon extract in the glaze for a citrusy twist. For a richer filling use a tablespoon of sour cream along with the cream cheese

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Serving Suggestions

Pair these danishes with fresh fruit for a brunch spread or serve alongside coffee or tea. A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon adds a little visual flair. I also love topping them with a handful of berries for a fun riff on classic fruit danishes

Cultural Context

Cheese danishes originated in Europe but the American version has become a brunch staple in bakeries and homes alike. The shortcut version with crescent dough is a nostalgic treat in my family and proves that simple grocery ingredients are perfect for making pastries at home

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of dough is used for these danishes?

These danishes use crescent roll dough, which provides a light, flaky texture and a timesaving shortcut.

→ Can I prepare the cheese filling in advance?

Yes, the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla blend can be mixed ahead and refrigerated until ready to use.

→ How do I ensure the pastry stays soft and not dry?

Brush the dough with melted butter before baking and avoid overbaking for maximum soft, tender results.

→ Is there a substitute for the glaze ingredients?

If needed, use lemon juice or almond extract instead of vanilla for a different glaze flavor profile.

→ Can these danishes be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat briefly in the oven or microwave to enjoy them warm again.