Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish

The Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish is a delightful and simple recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a sumptuous morning treat. Perfect for both weekend brunches and quick weekday breakfasts, this danish combines the flakiness of crescent rolls with the creamy sweetness of a cream cheese filling, all topped off with a light glaze. Its straightforward preparation process makes it a favorite among those who want to enjoy something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Let's dive into the details of how to bring this delectable pastry to your table.

Ingredients

For the Danish:

• 2 cans ready to use refrigerated crescent rolls
• 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 1 egg white

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 Tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 13X9-inch baking pan and grease it lightly to prevent the danish from sticking. This ensures your pastry comes out perfectly without any hassle when serving.

Step 2: Unroll one can of the refrigerated crescent rolls and lay it flat in the prepared baking pan. Gently pinch together any seams or openings in the dough to create a solid base layer. This layer will hold the creamy filling and needs to be seamless to prevent any leakage.

Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates the rich, sweet filling that's characteristic of a cheese danish.

Step 4: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the layer of crescent roll dough in the pan. Be sure to cover the entire surface for a uniform taste in every bite.

Step 5: Unroll the second can of crescent rolls and carefully place it over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely. Then, brush the top layer with the egg white. This will give the danish a beautiful golden-brown finish as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't over-brown.

Step 7: Once baked, remove the danish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. While it's cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 8: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled danish. For a professional touch, use a fork or a small spoon to create an even, decorative pattern.

COOKING Note

The cooking time may vary depending on your oven, so it's important to start checking the danish at the 35-minute mark to prevent over-browning. The final product should have a slightly crispy top layer with a creamy, soft filling.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish into squares or rectangles and serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or brunch.

Tips

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
• For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle a little lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture.
• If you prefer a less sweet danish, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling to suit your taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes

Total Time: 50-60 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: This will vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used, but a single serving can range from 300 to 400 calories.
• Protein: Approximately 5 to 7 grams per serving.
• Sodium: About 200 to 300 mg per serving, depending on the crescent rolls and cream cheese used.

The Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be elevated into a delightful and elegant pastry. Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply looking to treat yourself on a weekday morning, this recipe offers both ease and indulgence. With its golden crust, creamy filling, and sweet glaze, it's sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection.