Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

The Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is the perfect festive treat for your holiday brunch. This delightful pastry not only looks stunning but is also incredibly easy to make. With its combination of creamy cheese and sweet cherry filling, it adds a special touch to any Special Occasion morning celebration. Whether you’re hosting family or looking for a last-minute dish to bring to a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Presentation: The unique shape resembles aSpecial Occasion tree, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious treat in about 30 minutes.
• Versatile Flavor: The creamy filling paired with cherry pie topping offers a delightful balance of sweetness that appeals to all ages.
• Large Yield: Perfect for serving crowds, this recipe creates 22 individual Danish rolls, ensuring everyone gets a taste.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the components in advance and assemble them right before baking for an easy holiday morning.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Serrated knife
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Spoon or tart tamper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the cream cheese mixture smoothly without any lumps.
• Serrated knife: Provides precise cuts on the crescent rolls, ensuring even pieces for shaping the tree.
• Baking sheet: Allows for even cooking and easy transfer of the Danish to and from the oven.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cans of refrigerated crescent rolls

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese; softened
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoons vanilla

For the Topping

• 3/4 cup cherry pie filling

For the Glaze

• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons milk

How to Make Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Set it aside while you prepare the crescent rolls.

Step 2: Slice Crescent Rolls

Open the packages of crescent rolls but do not separate them. Using a serrated knife, slice each roll into 11 equal pieces.

Step 3: Shape Your Tree

Arrange the dough circles into a Special Occasion tree shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if desired. Start with one circle at the top and increase the number of circles as you move downwards. Remember to save one circle for the stem!

Step 4: Indent Each Circle

Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down in the center of each circle to create space for filling.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese Filling

Place a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture into each indented circle.

Step 6: Top with Cherry Filling

Add a small spoonful of cherry pie filling on top of each cream cheese portion. Note that you may not use all of your cherry pie filling.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Once baked, allow your Danish to cool slightly.

Step 8: Drizzle with Glaze

In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle this glaze over your slightly cooled Danish before serving immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish! It’s sure to be a hit at any festive gathering!

How to Serve Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

Serving your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful way to impress guests and add a festive touch to your breakfast table. This visually appealing dish not only tastes great but also works well with various accompaniments.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Add a mix of seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi. The freshness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the Danish.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the flavors of the cream cheese filling and cherry topping, making for a cozy breakfast experience.

Include Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream can provide a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with each bite of the Danish.

Accompany with Yogurt

• A bowl of plain or flavored yogurt can add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the Danish, creating a balanced meal.

Offer Maple Syrup

• Drizzling some maple syrup over the Danish adds an extra layer of flavor and sweetness, perfect for those who enjoy indulgence.

How to Perfect Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

To ensure your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for best results.

• Use softened cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing and spreading. This will create a smoother filling.
• Don’t overfill: Be cautious not to overload each crescent circle with cream cheese or cherry filling. A small spoonful is sufficient to avoid spillover during baking.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens vary in temperature; check your Danish at the 18-minute mark to prevent over-browning. Look for a golden color as an indicator.
• Allow cooling time: Let your Danish cool slightly before drizzling glaze on top. This helps the glaze set better without running off.

Best Side Dishes for Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

Complementing your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish with side dishes can elevate your brunch spread significantly. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with assorted greens, nuts, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the Danish.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your meal and balance out the sweet flavor profile of the Danish.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a savory crunch that pairs nicely with the soft texture of the Danish.
4. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings vibrant flavors and nutrients, making it an excellent accompaniment.
5. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses provides variety and richness, enhancing your brunch experience.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A fruit smoothie bowl topped with granola can be a nutritious and delicious side option that complements the Danish well.
7. Oven-Baked Pancakes: These can be made in advance and served warm alongside your danish for a hearty addition.
8. Nut Butter Toast: Whole grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter offers healthy fats that pair beautifully with sweet dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Not Soften the Cream Cheese: Failing to soften the cream cheese will make it difficult to combine with sugar and vanilla. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overcrowding the Crescent Rolls: Placing too many dough circles close together can lead to uneven baking. Ensure there’s space between each roll for proper heat circulation.
• Skipping the Indentation Step: Forgetting to create indentations in the dough can result in spilled filling. Use your thumb or a spoon to make a small hole in each circle before adding the cream cheese mixture.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Not keeping an eye on baking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked rolls. Check for a golden brown color, and set a timer for the recommended time.
• Not Cooling Before Glazing: Drizzling glaze on hot Danish may cause it to melt away. Allow your pastries to cool slightly before adding the powdered sugar glaze.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Danish will keep fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-12 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish:

Can I use different fruit fillings?

Yes! You can easily substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit preserves like blueberry or raspberry for a twist.

How do I customize my Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish?

Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor. You can also use flavored extracts instead of vanilla.

What if I don’t have crescent rolls?

If you can’t find crescent rolls, you can use puff pastry as an alternative. Roll it out and cut it similarly!

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes approximately 22 individual Danish crescent rolls, perfect for sharing at brunch!

Final Thoughts

The Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is not only visually stunning but also deliciously versatile. It’s a fantastic addition to any holiday brunch or breakfast table, allowing room for personal touches like different fillings or glazes. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe; your guests will surely love it!