Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

An easy last-minute recipe to serve for breakfast on Special Occasion morning, Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish makes a stunning centerpiece for any brunch buffet. This delightful pastry combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the sweet tartness of cherry filling, all wrapped in flaky crescent rolls. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-Catching Presentation: The uniqueSpecial Occasion tree shape adds a fun and festive touch to your table.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this treat in no time.
• Deliciously Versatile: While cherry filling shines here, feel free to swap it out for your favorite fruit preserves.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’sSpecial Occasion morning or a holiday brunch, this Danish is always a hit!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 22 individual pieces, there’s plenty to share with family and friends!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can 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 large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine and blend ingredients without mess.
• Serrated knife: This tool ensures that you can cut through the crescent rolls cleanly, creating perfect pieces for shaping.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution for consistent baking results.

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 and set aside while you prepare the crescent rolls.

Step 2: Slice Crescent Rolls

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

Step 3: Shape the Special Occasion Tree

Arrange the dough circles into the shape of a Special Occasion tree. Start with one circle at the top and work your way down by increasing the number of crescent roll circles as you go. Save one piece for the stem of the tree!

Step 4: Indent Dough Circles

Using your thumb, tart tamper, or the back of a spoon, gently indent the middle of each circle to create space for the cream cheese mixture.

Step 5: Fill with Cream Cheese

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

Step 6: Top with Cherry Filling

Then place a small spoonful of cherry pie filling on top of each filled circle. You may not use all of the cherry pie filling.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Drizzle Glaze

Combine the powdered sugar and milk together in a small bowl. Drizzle this glaze on top of your slightly cooled Danish and serve immediately. Enjoy!

How to Serve Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

This delightful Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. It makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at any holiday gathering. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your presentation.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the Danish on a large, decorative platter surrounded by fresh cranberries or holly sprigs for a festive touch.

Individual Servings

• Serve each Danish in cupcake liners to create individual portions that guests can easily grab and enjoy.

Accompanying Beverages

• Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or sparkling cider to complement the sweet flavors of the Danish.

Garnish Options

• Top with additional cherry pie filling or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving for an extra pop of color and sweetness.

Holiday-Themed Plates

• Use holiday-themed plates or napkins to enhance the festive atmosphere at your brunch table.

How to Perfect Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

Creating the perfect Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh cream cheese and high-quality cherry pie filling for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill each crescent circle with cream cheese or cherry filling, as this can cause overflow during baking.
• Use Cooking Spray: Lightly grease your baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the Danish as it bakes; ovens can vary, and you want them golden brown but not burnt.
• Let Cool Before Glazing: Allow the Danish to cool slightly before adding the glaze to ensure it doesn’t melt into the pastry.

Best Side Dishes for Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

To create a well-rounded brunch experience, consider serving side dishes that complement your Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the Danish.
2. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and savory flavor, making them a great addition to your breakfast spread.
3. Yogurt Parfaits
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy yet delicious side that pairs well with pastries.
4. Mini Quiches
   These bite-sized treats can be filled with vegetables or cheese, offering variety without overwhelming flavors.
5. Sausage Links
   Cook up turkey or chicken sausage links as a hearty side dish that complements the sweetness of the Danish.
6. Hash Browns
   Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness, making them a satisfying addition to your brunch menu.
7. Cinnamon Rolls
   For those who love sweets, cinnamon rolls bring another layer of indulgence to your breakfast spread.
8. Baked Apples
   Serve warm baked apples sprinkled with cinnamon for a delightful seasonal treat that pairs nicely with coffee or tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cream cheese softening: Failing to soften your cream cheese can result in a lumpy filling. Always allow it to come to room temperature for a smooth texture.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking your Danish in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before placing the Danish inside.
• Cutting crescent rolls incorrectly: Cutting the crescent rolls into uneven pieces can disrupt the shape of your Special Occasion tree. Make sure each roll is sliced into equal sections for a balanced look.
• Overfilling with cherry pie filling: Adding too much cherry filling can cause it to spill over during baking. Use just a small spoonful on top of each cream cheese portion.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds a sweet finish that complements the Danish. Don’t forget to drizzle it on right before serving for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep the Danish fresh.

Freezing Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat in a skillet, covering it with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long does it take to make Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish?

Making this delicious treat takes about 30 minutes in total, including preparation and baking time.

Can I customize the filling for my Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry, or even add nuts for added texture.

What should I serve with Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with hot coffee, tea, or a festive fruit juice for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.

Is there an alternative cream cheese I can use?

Absolutely! You can opt for plant-based cream cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Special Occasion Tree Cream Cheese Danish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it allows you to customize flavors based on your preference. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests with this delightful treat!