Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish Recipe

Try This Fluffy Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish Recipe Today!

Lazy weekend mornings call for a delightful breakfast cheese danish that promises pure comfort.

Flaky pastry layers cradle a smooth, creamy filling that melts perfectly on your tongue.

Bakery-style magic happens right in your kitchen with surprisingly simple ingredients.

Professional chefs might make this look complicated, but you can absolutely master these delectable treats.

Each bite delivers a rich, sweet experience that feels like a warm hug.

Morning routines suddenly become exciting when golden-brown pastries emerge from your oven.

Grab a cup of coffee and treat yourself to something spectacular.

Why Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish Brightens The Morning

  • Whip Up Breakfast Bliss: These cheese danishes transform ordinary mornings into delightful culinary experiences with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
  • Quickest Morning Makeover: Using premade crescent roll dough, you can create bakery-style pastries in just 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy households.
  • Customize Your Comfort: The versatile cream cheese filling allows endless variations by adding different zests, extracts, or even fruit preserves to match personal preferences.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Simplicity: No advanced baking skills required – these danishes are foolproof, making them ideal for novice cooks, weekend breakfasts, or casual brunch gatherings with friends and family.

What Goes In Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish

Base Ingredients:
  • Crescent Roll Dough: Convenient pastry base for quick danish creation, pre-made and ready to use.
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth, rich filling that provides creamy texture and tangy flavor, best when softened at room temperature.
Filling and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling, white granulated works best.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, sweet aroma and depth to the filling, pure extract recommended.
  • Lemon Zest: Optional bright citrus note that complements the creamy filling.
Glaze Components:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth, sweet topping with silky consistency.
  • Milk: Helps thin and blend the glaze, whole milk provides best texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle flavor to the glaze, enhancing overall sweetness.
Additional Items:
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Prevents sticking and ensures easy baking surface.

Instructions For Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Unroll And Separate Dough

Take your crescent roll dough and gently unroll it. Carefully separate the dough into 8 triangle shapes. Spread them out on the prepared baking sheet, giving each triangle a bit of breathing room.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Lemon zest (optional)

Blend everything until it’s smooth and dreamy, creating a rich and velvety filling.

Step 4: Craft Your Danish Delights

Dollop about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Spread it gently, keeping clear of the edges. Starting from the wide end, roll up the dough, tucking the filling inside. Give the edges a gentle pinch to keep everything sealed tight.

Step 5: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Let the danishes bake for 10-12 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once done, pull them out and let them cool down for a few moments.

Step 6: Create Silky Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk until the glaze becomes smooth and drizzle-ready. Add a splash more milk if it needs thinning.

Step 7: Drizzle With Sweet Finish

Using a spoon or piping bag, generously drizzle the glaze over the warm danishes. Let it cascade down the sides for that bakery-style look.

Step 8: Savor And Enjoy

Serve these heavenly danishes warm or at room temperature. Pair with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate morning treat!

Helpful Notes For Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish

  • Swap Crescent Dough Creatively: Experiment with puff pastry or homemade dough for a more artisanal texture and flavor profile.
  • Control Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature to create a smooth, lump-free filling that spreads easily.
  • Prevent Filling Leakage: Pinch the edges of each danish carefully to seal the cream cheese filling and prevent it from oozing during baking.
  • Customize Flavor Variations: Add fresh berries, almond extract, or cinnamon to the cream cheese filling for a personalized breakfast treat that keeps things exciting.
  • Master the Glaze Technique: Drizzle the glaze while danishes are still warm to help it settle into the pastry's nooks and create a beautiful, appetizing finish.

Storage Tips To Keep Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish Fresh

  • Refrigerate leftover cheese danishes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Keep them separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300F (150C) for a crispy texture.
  • Avoid leaving these pastries at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
  • Freeze the danishes for longer storage by wrapping each individually in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
  • Frozen danishes will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying, and warm slightly to restore their delightful flaky texture.

Best Sips And Sides For Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish

  • Brew the Perfect Coffee Companion: Pair these cheesy danishes with a bold, medium-roast Colombian coffee that cuts through the sweetness and complements the creamy filling. The rich, slightly nutty coffee notes will enhance the delicate pastry's flavor profile.
  • Elevate with Fresh Fruit Contrast: Serve alongside a bright, tangy mixed berry compote or fresh strawberry slices. The fruity acidity will balance the rich cream cheese and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet glaze.
  • Craft a Morning Beverage Harmony: Complement the danish with a smooth chai latte or vanilla-infused herbal tea. The warm spices and creamy texture will create a delightful morning experience that feels indulgent yet comforting.
  • Create a Seasonal Side Pairing: Add a small glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice to brighten the breakfast plate. The citrusy punch will cut through the pastry's richness and add a zesty morning energy boost.

Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish Twists Worth Trying

  • Fruit-Packed Danish: Add a layer of fresh berries or sliced peaches on top of the cream cheese filling before rolling the dough. The burst of fruity freshness will elevate the classic recipe.
  • Nutty Chocolate Version: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans and mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture. The extra crunch and rich chocolate notes create a decadent breakfast treat.
  • Savory Breakfast Option: Replace sugar with herbs like chives or dill in the cream cheese filling. Incorporate crumbled bacon or ham for a hearty, protein-packed morning pastry.
  • Cinnamon Swirl Variation: Mix ground cinnamon and brown sugar into the cream cheese filling. Swirl the mixture before rolling to create a warm, spiced danish that feels like a cozy morning hug.

FAQs For Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish

  • What makes these cheese danishes so easy to prepare?

These danishes use pre-made crescent roll dough, which eliminates the need for complicated pastry-making. You can whip them up quickly with just a few simple ingredients, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute breakfast treats.

  • Can I make these danishes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the danishes and keep them unbaked in the fridge overnight, then bake them fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast.

  • Is it possible to customize the filling?

Absolutely! While the classic cream cheese filling is delicious, you can experiment by adding different extracts like almond or adding a bit of fruit preserves to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor. Some people even like to sprinkle in some cinnamon for a warm, spicy touch.

  • Are these danishes suitable for people who don't like complicated baking?

Definitely! These cheese danishes are super beginner-friendly. They require minimal baking skills, use readily available ingredients, and come together in less than 30 minutes. Even novice bakers can create a delicious pastry that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

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Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish Recipe

Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish Recipe


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4.6 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent Cheese Danish brings European bakery charm straight to kitchen counters with rich cream cheese filling nestled in buttery, flaky pastry. Crisp golden edges and creamy center promise a delightful morning treat you’ll savor from first delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Danish:

Dairy Products:

  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened

Pastry Base:

  • 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough

Sweeteners and Flavoring:

  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

For the Glaze:

Sweeteners and Liquid:

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 12 tablespoons milk
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 375F (190C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal danish baking conditions.
  2. Carefully unfurl the crescent roll dough, separating each triangular section with precision. Arrange triangles on the prepared baking surface, maintaining slight spacing between them.
  3. Create a velvety cream cheese mixture by thoroughly blending softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon zest until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
  4. Delicately distribute the cream cheese filling along the wider portion of each triangular dough section. Spread gently, ensuring minimal contact with the edges. Carefully roll the dough from the wide end, encapsulating the filling and sealing the edges with gentle pressure.
  5. Position the assembled danishes in the preheated oven, allowing them to transform into golden-brown delicacies over 10-12 minutes. Monitor closely to prevent over-browning.
  6. While the pastries bake, craft a smooth glaze by whisking powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract. Adjust liquid content to achieve desired drizzling consistency.
  7. Once pastries have cooled slightly, embellish with the prepared glaze, either using a spoon for a rustic approach or a piping bag for more refined decoration.
  8. Present the warm danishes immediately, or allow to reach room temperature. Pair with a steaming beverage for a delightful morning indulgence.

Notes

  • Customize the filling by adding different extracts like almond or using orange zest for a vibrant twist.
  • Experiment with low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt to make a lighter version of the danish.
  • Create a gluten-free option by using gluten-free crescent roll dough or a homemade pastry alternative.
  • Prep these danishes ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating overnight, then baking fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Danish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 315
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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