Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

An easy last-minute recipe to serve for breakfast on Special Occasion morning, the Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish makes a stunning centerpiece for any brunch buffet. With its delightful combination of creamy filling and sweet cherry topping, this Danish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and create lasting holiday memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The Special Occasion tree shape adds a festive touch to your holiday table.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these Danishes in no time.
• Deliciously Creamy: The cream cheese filling offers a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the cherry pie filling.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet snack throughout the holiday season.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in shaping the tree and adding their favorite toppings!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Serrated knife
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Small bowl for glaze

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without making a mess.
• Serrated knife: Perfect for slicing the crescent rolls evenly without tearing them apart.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your Danish, ensuring even cooking.
• Small bowl for glaze: Keeps your glaze neat and easy to drizzle over the finished product.

Ingredients

To make the delightful Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Danish

• 2 cans of refrigerated crescent rolls
• 4 ounces cream cheese; softened
• 3/4 cup cherry pie filling
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Glaze

• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons milk

How to Make Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

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

Step 2: Slice Crescent Rolls

Open both packages of crescent rolls without separating them. Using a serrated knife, slice each roll into 11 equal pieces.

Step 3: Shape into a Special Occasion Tree

Arrange the dough circles into a Special Occasion tree shape. Start with one circle at the top and increase the number of circles as you move down. Remember to save one piece for the trunk!

Step 4: Create Indents

Using your thumb or a spoon’s back, gently press down in the center of each circle to create space for the cream cheese mixture.

Step 5: Fill with Cream Cheese Mixture

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

Step 6: Add Cherry Pie Filling

Top each filled circle with a small spoonful of cherry pie filling. You will not need all of it.

Step 7: Bake the Danish

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cooling once done.

Step 8: Drizzle with Glaze

In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and milk. Mix well and drizzle over slightly cooled Danish before serving immediately.

Enjoy your beautifully festive Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish!

How to Serve Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

This delightful Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Here are some fun and festive serving suggestions to make your holiday gathering even more special.

Individual Servings

• Serve each Danish on a small plate with a festive napkin for an elegant touch.
• Add a sprig of mint or holly on the plate for a pop of color and holiday charm.

Accompanying Beverages

• Pair your Danish with hot cocoa for a cozy, warm beverage option.
• Offer fresh-squeezed orange juice to balance the sweetness of the Danish.

Garnish Ideas

• Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a snowy effect.
• Drizzle extra cherry pie filling around the Danish for added visual appeal.

Creative Presentation

• Arrange the Danishes on a decorative platter in the shape of an actual Special Occasion tree.
• Use edible glitter or festive sprinkles to enhance the holiday spirit.

How to Perfect Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

To achieve the best results with your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures that your cream cheese mixture blends smoothly and easily.
• Don’t overcrowd the filling: A small spoonful of cream cheese and cherry pie filling is enough. Overfilling may cause spills during baking.
• Preheat your oven: A properly heated oven guarantees even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Watch baking time closely: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your Danishes in the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.
• Cool slightly before glazing: Letting the Danish cool just enough prevents the glaze from melting away completely.

Best Side Dishes for Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

Pairing side dishes with your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish can elevate your breakfast spread. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy, creamy complement to the pastry.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and richness, making for a hearty meal.
4. Cinnamon Rolls: For those who love pastries, cinnamon rolls add another layer of deliciousness to your brunch table.
5. Breakfast Sausage Links: Turkey or chicken sausage offers a savory contrast to sweet Danishes without pork products.
6. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and are always a crowd-pleaser at breakfast spreads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish a hit. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not Softening the Cream Cheese: Using cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy filling. Always ensure it’s softened for a smooth texture.
• Skipping the Glaze: The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Don’t skip it; drizzle it on after cooling for the best flavor.
• Overbaking: Keeping an eye on the baking time is crucial. Overbaking can result in dry pastry. Aim for golden brown, typically around 18-20 minutes.
• Improper Storage: Leaving Danish at room temperature can make them soggy. Store them properly to keep them fresh and flaky.
• Not Measuring Filling Accurately: Too much cream cheese filling can overflow during baking. Use a small spoon to control the amount for each crescent circle.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each Danish on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruit fillings?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings like blueberry or apple for variety.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives available in stores.

How do I prevent the crescent rolls from unrolling?

Make sure to handle the crescent rolls gently and avoid excessive stretching when shaping them into a tree.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and shape the Danish in advance, then bake it fresh on Special Occasion morning.

Final Thoughts

The Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is not only visually appealing but also versatile for any brunch setting. You can customize it with various fillings or toppings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and delight your guests with its festive charm!