special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

The special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is a festive treat that adds joy to your holiday breakfast table. This delightful pastry not only impresses with its charming holiday shape but also offers a delicious combination of cream cheese and cherry filling. Perfect for special occasion morning or any holiday brunch, this dish is simple to make yet visually stunning, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this beautiful Danish in no time.
• Festive Presentation: Shaped like a special occasion tree, this Danish is sure to catch the eye and delight your guests at any holiday gathering.
• Versatile Flavor: The creamy filling paired with sweet cherry pie creates a harmonious balance that appeals to all taste buds.
• Great for Sharing: Serving 22 individual pastries means there’s plenty to go around, making it perfect for parties or family breakfasts.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious brunch without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delightful special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Serrated knife
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients for the cream cheese filling without spills.
• Serrated knife: This tool helps create even slices of crescent rolls, ensuring a beautiful presentation for your Danish.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution, leading to perfectly baked pastries every time.

Ingredients

For the Pastry Base

• 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 Cherry 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 softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Set aside while you prepare the crescent rolls.

Step 2: Cut the Crescent Rolls

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

Step 3: Shape Your special occasion Tree

Arrange the dough circles into a tree shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Start with one circle at the top and work downwards, adding more circles as you form branches. Remember to save one piece for the stem!

Step 4: Create Indents for Filling

Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press down in the center of each dough circle. This will create space for your cream cheese filling.

Step 5: Fill with Cream Cheese Mixture

Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into each indented circle.

Step 6: Add Cherry Pie Filling

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

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the Danish to cool on a wire rack.

Step 8: Drizzle Glaze on Top

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

Enjoy your festive special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, perfect for sharing during holiday celebrations!

How to Serve special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

This delightful special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish not only tastes amazing but also makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at your holiday brunch. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your presentation.

Individual Servings

• Serve each Danish on a decorative plate for a personal touch. This makes it easy for guests to grab their own portion.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the Danish with fresh berries or sliced apples to add a refreshing contrast to the sweet cream cheese filling.

Festive Platter

• Arrange several special occasion Tree Danishes on a large platter, garnished with mint leaves or edible flowers for a festive look.

Drizzle Extra Glaze

• Offer extra glaze on the side in small cups, allowing guests to drizzle more sweetness over their Danish as desired.

Coffee or Hot Cocoa Bar

• Set up a coffee or hot cocoa station nearby so guests can enjoy warm beverages alongside their pastries.

How to Perfect special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

To ensure your special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
• Chill Crescent Rolls: Keep the crescent rolls refrigerated until you’re ready to use them. This helps maintain their shape during baking.
• Don’t Overfill: Use just a small spoonful of cream cheese and cherry filling. Overfilling can cause spills while baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your Danish during the last few minutes of baking. Remove them as soon as they turn golden brown to prevent drying out.

Best Side Dishes for special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

Enhance your holiday breakfast spread by pairing the special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish with these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds bright colors and refreshing flavors that balance the sweetness of the Danish.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast, making for a well-rounded breakfast.
3. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit in clear cups for a beautiful side that guests can enjoy alongside their pastries.
4. Cinnamon Rolls: For those who love sweet treats, serve warm cinnamon rolls as an indulgent addition to your brunch table.
5. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche brings a hearty element, offering protein and vegetables that pair well with sweet pastries.
6. Potato Hash: Crispy potato hash with bell peppers and onions provides satisfying crunch and flavor that complements the soft pastry.
7. Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars serve as an easy grab-and-go option for guests who may want something portable.
8. Spiced Tea: Serve warm spiced tea to enhance the cozy atmosphere of your holiday gathering while offering guests a comforting beverage option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the cream cheese: Mixing too much can make the filling watery. Mix just until smooth to keep it thick and creamy.
• Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
• Using cold crescent rolls: Cold dough can be hard to shape. Let the rolls sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your Danish, removing it once golden brown for the best texture.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal. Don’t forget to drizzle it on before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Danish in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The Danish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing the special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish.

How do I prepare ahead of time?

You can prepare the cream cheese filling and shape the Danish a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Can I customize the filling of my special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish?

Absolutely! You can use different fruit pie fillings like blueberry or apple, or add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.

What can I serve with my special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish?

This delicious pastry pairs well with coffee, hot chocolate, or fresh fruit for a festive breakfast spread.

How long does it take to bake the special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish?

It typically takes about 18-20 minutes at 350°F until golden brown.

Final Thoughts

The special occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for holiday brunches or cozy breakfasts at home. Feel free to customize your filling and glaze options to suit your taste. Enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends!