Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will make your holiday mornings even more special, this Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is just what you need! The combination of fresh raspberries and creamy cheese wrapped in buttery crescent rolls creates a wonderful breakfast experience. It’s not only perfect for Christmas morning but also great for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished favorite in your home!

This easy-to-make Danish brings smiles to the table, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it all to yourself with a warm cup of coffee. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet raspberry filling and creamy texture.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time, making breakfast planning a breeze!
• Festive Presentation: The candy cane shape adds a fun touch to your holiday table that everyone will appreciate.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of tangy raspberries and rich cream cheese is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is simple and fun! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls (8 Count)
• 4 oz (from 8-oz package) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, divided
• 3/4 cup fresh raspberries
• 2 tablespoons raspberry preserves
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon milk

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Change the Fruit: Swap out raspberries for strawberries or blueberries for a different fruity flavor.
• Add Spices: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese mixture for an extra warming spice.
• Try Different Preserves: Use apricot or peach preserves instead of raspberry for a unique twist.
• Go Vegan: Substitute plant-based cream cheese and use non-dairy milk to make it vegan-friendly!

How to Make Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, heat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial as it ensures your Danish will bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden brown color we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Cutting each triangle in half lengthwise gives us more dough to work with, creating a beautifully layered Danish.

Step 3: Shape the Base

On your baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lay out the crescent triangles in a long row, overlapping them slightly. Press those edges together firmly; this will hold everything in place as it bakes!

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and two tablespoons of granulated sugar until smooth. Spreading this mixture along the widest part of your dough adds that rich creaminess we crave.

Step 5: Add the Raspberries

Gently toss your fresh raspberries with raspberry preserves and layer them on top of the cream cheese. This fruity filling not only tastes amazing but also makes our Danish pop with color!

Step 6: Fold and Shape

Fold over the tips of the dough, pinching them tightly to seal in all that goodness. Curving one end helps form our candy cane shape—so fun and festive!

Step 7: Get Ready to Bake

Brush melted butter over the top of your shaped Danish. A sprinkle of granulated sugar adds sweetness and crunch as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Pop your creation into the oven and let it bake for about 16 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 9: Drizzle with Icing

Once cooled slightly, mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Drizzle this sweet icing over your warm Danish for an extra special touch before serving!

Now that you’ve made this delightful Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish, gather around with family and friends to enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

Making this delightful Danish is all about the details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your holiday treat turns out perfectly.

• Use fresh raspberries: Fresh raspberries add a burst of flavor and vibrant color. If they’re not in season, opt for frozen but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
• Soften cream cheese properly: To achieve a smooth filling, let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This will help it blend easily with the sugar and create a creamy texture.
• Don’t rush the baking: Keep an eye on your Danish while it’s baking. Every oven is different, so you might need a few extra minutes or less. Look for that golden brown color as your cue!
• Drizzle wisely: When drizzling the glaze on top, start with a thicker consistency and gradually add milk until you reach the desired drizzling thickness. This will give you a beautiful finish without making a mess.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to mix up the fillings! You can substitute blueberries or strawberries for raspberries, or even add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for an extra zing.

How to Serve Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

This gorgeous Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Present it beautifully, and it will be the star of your holiday breakfast table.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the festive look.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves not only brighten up the plate but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the Danish.
• Zest of citrus fruits: A bit of lemon or orange zest can elevate your dish’s appearance and flavor profile, adding a bright and zesty note.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad complements the sweetness of the Danish while adding freshness. Toss together seasonal fruits like oranges, apples, and kiwi for a vibrant mix.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and additional berries in small cups for a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the Danish.
• Breakfast sausages: Plant-based breakfast sausages offer a savory contrast that pairs wonderfully with sweet pastries. Plus, they’re easy to prepare!
• Scrambled eggs: For those who enjoy a hearty breakfast, fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and round out your meal beautifully.

With these serving tips and garnishes in mind, you’ll create not just a delicious dish but also an inviting holiday atmosphere that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store and reheat this festive pastry!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Danish in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best texture, consume within the first couple of days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the Danish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish.

Can I make the Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the Danish just before baking. This makes it easy to enjoy a fresh pastry without fuss on busy mornings.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a vegan cream cheese alternative. It will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.

How do I ensure my Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish comes out perfectly?

To achieve that golden-brown color, make sure your oven is preheated properly. Also, don’t skip brushing with melted butter before baking; it enhances flavor and gives that beautiful finish!

Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute fresh blueberries or strawberries for a delicious twist on this holiday favorite.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this festive Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish! It’s not just a treat—it’s a way to create joyful memories with loved ones during the holidays. Enjoy every bite and embrace the warmth of this special season. Happy baking!