As the holiday season approaches, there’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the air. I found myself on a delightful quest to create the perfect festive treat when I stumbled upon these Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze. Imagine biting into layers of flaky, buttery dough that give way to a rich, creamy filling, each danish topped with a sweet glaze that glistens like winter snow. The tartness of sugared cranberries adds just the right touch of holiday cheer, transforming each bite into a moment of pure bliss.
These danishes are incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite jam flavors or get creative with different toppings. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy brunch or impressing guests at a holiday gathering, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the kitchen the sweetest holiday baking adventure awaits!
Why are these Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries so special?
Irresistible, the combination of flaky dough and creamy filling creates a perfect balance of texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. Festive Touch, the sugared cranberries not only look beautiful but also add a delightful tartness that brightens each bite. Versatile Options, feel free to experiment with different jam flavors for a personalized twist. Quick to Prepare, these danishes come together easily, making them an accessible treat for any home baker. Perfect for Sharing, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy brunch, your friends and family will be coming back for more!
Cream Cheese Danishes Ingredients
• The key components for a festive flavor explosion!
For the Dough
- Crescent Dough – This flaky base is perfect for creating that buttery danish texture; you can substitute with homemade dough if you’re feeling adventurous.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Softened for easy spreading, it’s the rich center that everyone loves; feel free to swap in dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
- Strawberry Jam – Adds a sweet and fruity flavor; try raspberry, blackberry, or apricot jam for different flavor profiles, just make sure it’s stirred to a saucy consistency.
For the Topping
- Sugared Cranberries – These festive little gems provide a tart contrast and a beautiful visual touch; if you’re short on time, they can be swapped with nuts or omitted altogether.
- Vanilla Butter Glaze – This sweet finishing touch should be drizzled on while still warm for that gorgeous glossy look; use right after mixing for the best texture.
How to Make Cream Cheese Danishes
- Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather all your ingredients together to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
- Dough Assembly: Unroll the crescent dough and cut it into triangles. Spread the cream cheese evenly over each triangle, making sure to cover the base fully for a creamy center.
- Add Jam: Place a spoonful of your chosen jam at the wide end of each triangle. Roll the dough towards the tip to form a delightful danish shape, tucking in the ends slightly.
- Baking: Arrange the rolled danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Cooling: Allow the danishes to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This short wait helps them hold their shape and makes glazing easier.
- Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients. Drizzle the glaze over the warm danishes and immediately sprinkle with sugared cranberries for a festive touch while the glaze is still wet.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra sweet finish before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cream Cheese Danishes
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy spreading. Microwave it for 10-15 seconds if needed to soften without melting.
- Jam Consistency: To achieve the best flavor balance in your Cream Cheese Danishes, stir the jam with a touch of water to make it more spreadable and prevent it from being too thick.
- Advance Preparation: If using sugared cranberries, prepare them a few hours beforehand or the day prior to save time on baking day and to enhance their flavor.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the danishes as they bake; taking them out just as they turn golden will ensure that they remain flaky and do not dry out.
- Glaze Timing: Drizzle the vanilla butter glaze over the danishes while they are still warm for the best absorption and shiny finish; it complements the flavors beautifully.
Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and make these danishes truly your own!
- Jam Swaps: Replace strawberry jam with raspberry, blueberry, or apricot for a whole new flavor experience. Each jam brings its unique sweetness and tartness!
- Nutty Topping: Substitute sugared cranberries with chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added crunch and a different flavor profile. This twist will surprise your taste buds!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the glaze. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Fruity Burst: Add fresh fruit slices like apples or pears on top of the cream cheese before baking for a delightful, juicy addition. It’s a simple way to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the gl glaze instead of vanilla. The rich chocolate will elevate your danishes to a whole new level of indulgence.
- Lower Sugar: Use sugar-free jam and a light glaze to make these danishes a bit healthier without sacrificing too much sweetness. You can still enjoy a lovely treat!
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the crescent dough for a gluten-free pastry dough to cater to dietary needs. This allows everyone to enjoy the magic of these danishes.
- Zesty Flavor: Infuse lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese filling for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens each bite. It’s like sunshine on your plate!
Make Ahead Options
These Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries are perfect for meal prep, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen on busy mornings! You can assemble the danishes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking to enjoy freshly baked goodness without the hassle. Simply prepare the dough, fill with cream cheese and jam, then roll them up and place them on the baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to enjoy, preheat the oven and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed to achieve that golden flaky texture. Make sure to glaze them while still warm for maximum flavor, and rest easy knowing they’ll be just as delightful as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries?
These delightful pastries shine brightly as the star of any festive gathering, inviting you to create a complete holiday feast.
- Steamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety warmth of hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pastries, making each bite and sip a cozy companion for winter days.
- Spiced Chai Tea: With its aromatic flavors, a cup of spiced chai tea complements the creamy filling, infusing warmth and spice that enhances every festive bite.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and vibrant, a medley of berries and citrus fruits balances the sweetness of the danishes, offering a refreshing contrast that’s visually appealing too.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these pecans add a delightful texture and hint of spice, making your dessert spread feel gourmet and inviting.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the warm danish creates an exquisite combination of flavors that is simply irresistible.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses brings a rich, savory element that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the danishes, enhancing your dessert display.
How to Store and Freeze Cream Cheese Danishes
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days for best texture, as refrigeration may cause the crust to become soggy.
Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, refrigerate the danishes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Freezer: You can freeze unbaked danishes for up to 1 month. Just assemble and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid.
Reheating: To enjoy previously baked Cream Cheese Danishes, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky texture.
Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries Recipe FAQs
What kind of jam works best for these danishes?
Absolutely! While strawberry jam adds a delightful sweetness, you can also explore other flavors like raspberry, blackberry, or apricot jam. For a unique touch, I recommend stirring your jam with a bit of water to achieve a more spreadable, saucy consistency, making it easier to dollop onto each danish.
How should I store leftover cream cheese danishes?
Very good question! For optimal freshness, store your danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 4 days—just be mindful that refrigeration can make the dough slightly less flaky. To refresh your leftovers, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze cream cheese danishes?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked danishes for up to 1 month. Just assemble them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen. This way, you’ll always have delicious treats ready to go!
What if my danishes are not browning properly in the oven?
If your danishes aren’t browning as expected, it may be that your oven temperature is off; an oven thermometer can help you check this. Additionally, make sure there’s enough space between the danishes on the baking sheet for air to circulate. If they’re still pale after the recommended baking time, try increasing the temperature by 25°F for the last few minutes of baking.
Are these danishes suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can swap the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, which works just as well. Remember, however, to check the jam for any hidden allergens if you’re catering to guests with specific dietary needs. If you’re creating for pets, it’s best to avoid ingredient sharing, especially with sugary toppings or dairy!
How can I make these danishes ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can ease the morning rush! Assemble the cream cheese danishes the night before and cover them with plastic wrap at the fridge. Bake them fresh in the morning—there’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked pastries to start your day!
Irresistible Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent dough and cut it into triangles. Spread the cream cheese evenly over each triangle.
- Place a spoonful of your chosen jam at the wide end of each triangle. Roll the dough towards the tip.
- Arrange the rolled danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes.
- Allow the danishes to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm danishes, then sprinkle with sugared cranberries.