CRESCENT CHEESE DANISHES

INGREDIENTS:

2 tubes of crescent roll dough

1 package (8 ounces) of Philadelphia cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons butter, fully melted

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1/4 cup light brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

4 teaspoons milk

Optional Toppings:

Cherry, blueberry, or strawberry filling

DIRECTIONS:

1. PREHEAT THE OVEN

Set the Temperature: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Danishes bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden color.

2. PREPARE THE CREAM CHEESE FILLING

Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, pure vanilla extract, and granulated sugar. Use a mixer on medium speed to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. The lemon juice adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor. Set the cream cheese mixture aside.

3. PREPARE THE CRESCENT ROLL DOUGH

Unroll the Dough: Open the two tubes of crescent roll dough, but don’t unroll them just yet. Instead, keep them in their rolled form.

Slice the Dough: Using a sharp knife, slice each roll of dough into thick rounds. The thickness of the slices should be about 1/2 inch to ensure they hold up well during baking and create a nice, fluffy base for the filling.

Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the sliced dough on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. The parchment paper helps prevent sticking and ensures even baking.

Form the Edges: Use your fingers or a small measuring cup to gently press around the edge of each slice, creating a small raised border. This helps contain the cream cheese filling and prevents it from spilling out during baking.

4. PREPARE THE SWEET BUTTER MIXTURE

Mix Butter and Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with 1/4 cup of light brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved into the butter. This mixture adds a touch of caramelized sweetness to the outer layer of your Danishes.

Brush the Mixture: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter and sugar mixture over the top of each dough slice. This step gives the Danishes a delicious, slightly crisp, and sweet exterior.

5. ADD THE CREAM CHEESE FILLING

Dollop the Filling: Spoon even amounts of the prepared cream cheese filling into the center of each dough slice. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling may spread and overflow during baking …