Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and cheer to your holiday mornings, look no further than this Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, filling the air with the sweet aroma of fresh raspberries and cream cheese. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about creating those special moments with loved ones while enjoying a delicious breakfast together.

Perfect for Christmas morning or any festive gathering, this Danish is super easy to whip up! With just a few simple steps, you can make something that looks and tastes impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy to Make: This Danish uses store-bought crescent rolls, making it a breeze to prepare on busy mornings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet filling of cream cheese and fresh raspberries.
• Beautiful Presentation: The candy cane shape makes it visually stunning—perfect for impressing guests at holiday gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning for a fuss-free breakfast!
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of tangy raspberries and creamy cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet wholesome, making this recipe as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. Gather these yummy items to get started on your Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish!

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own.

• Mix Up the Berries: Substitute fresh raspberries with blueberries or strawberries for a different fruity twist.
• Add Some Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try Different Spreads: Swap raspberry preserves for strawberry or even apricot preserves if you prefer something sweeter.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top before baking for added texture.

How to Make Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, heat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your Danish will bake evenly and come out golden brown. Line a large baking sheet with cooking parchment paper and spray generously with cooking spray. This step prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. To create more surface area for filling, cut each triangle in half lengthwise. This will allow you to create two smaller strips from each triangle, making it easier to form that beautiful candy cane shape!

Step 3: Arrange the Dough

On your prepared baking sheet, place the crescent triangles lengthwise in a long row, pointing in the same direction with edges overlapping slightly. Press those overlapping edges together gently; this helps seal them but leaves the points free so they can curl later.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until well blended. This creamy mixture is what makes our Danish so rich and delicious!

Step 5: Spread It Out!

Spread that luscious cream cheese mixture along a strip on the widest part of your dough, leaving about a half-inch edge. We want every bite filled with that creamy goodness!

Step 6: Add Raspberries

In another small bowl, toss together fresh raspberries with raspberry preserves. Carefully place this fruity mixture on top of your cream cheese layer for that burst of flavor.

Step 7: Shape It Up!

Fold over the tips of your dough to enclose that wonderful filling; pinch those ends tightly together. Now comes the fun part—gently pick up one end of dough to curve it around, forming the top of your candy cane shape! Brush melted butter over the dough and sprinkle remaining granulated sugar on top for added sweetness.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop your creation into the oven and bake for about 16 to 20 minutes until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Once baked, let it cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring it carefully onto a serving platter.

Step 9: Drizzle Time!

In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with milk until you achieve a drizzleable consistency. If it’s too thick, just add more milk drop by drop until you get it right! Drizzle this sweet glaze over your warm Danish before serving—this final touch takes it over the top!

Now gather around with family or friends, serve warm, and enjoy every delicious bite of this Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish together!

Pro Tips for Making Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

Creating your perfect Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is a breeze with these expert tips!

• Use softened cream cheese: This ensures that the mixture spreads easily and blends smoothly, giving you a creamy texture without any lumps.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give each Danish enough space to expand while baking. This helps achieve that lovely golden-brown color all around.
• Experiment with fresh fruit: While raspberries are delightful, feel free to mix in other berries or fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a unique twist on this classic treat.
• Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the Danish to sit for about 5 minutes after baking makes it easier to slice and enhances the flavors as they settle.
• Drizzle with glaze just before serving: A fresh drizzle of glaze adds an appealing finish and makes your holiday Danish look even more festive!

How to Serve Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish

Presenting your Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the sweet raspberries beautifully.
• Coconut flakes: Toasted coconut can add a delightful crunch and a hint of tropical flavor, making your Danish feel extra special.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Danish, making it a perfect companion for breakfast or brunch.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and mixed berries for a light, nutritious side that balances out the sweetness of the Danish.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, pairs wonderfully with the flaky pastry, creating a cozy vibe during your holiday gathering.
• Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your meal, making it heartier while ensuring a satisfying start to your day.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish will surely impress family and friends this holiday season! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is not only a delightful treat for your holiday celebrations but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday mornings stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the Danish cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the Danish to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the Danish from the fridge or freezer.
• If frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re in the right place!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the Danish ahead of time. Just refrigerate it unbaked, then bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What should I do if my Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish is too thick?

If your cream cheese mixture is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or yogurt until it reaches your desired consistency. This will make it easier to spread on the dough!

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries! Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in your filling.

How do I prevent my crescent rolls from getting soggy?

To keep your crescent rolls crisp, avoid overfilling them with the raspberry mixture. Baking them immediately after assembling will also help retain their texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this Raspberry-Cream Cheese Holiday Crescent Danish becomes a cherished part of your holiday traditions! It’s simple to make, beautifully festive, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it on Christmas morning or sharing it with loved ones, it’s bound to bring smiles all around. Have fun making this delightful treat, and happy baking!