Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, use a handheld electric mixer on medium-high speed to cream together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and almond extract until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: In a small bowl, beat the egg and water with a fork to make an egg wash. Set aside.

Step 4: Open one package of crescent rolls and remove the dough in its original cylinder shape without unrolling.

Step 5: Using a sharp knife, cut the cylinder into 12 equal pieces.

Step 6: Flatten each dough piece slightly in the center with your fingers. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the edges with the egg wash using a pastry brush.

Step 7: Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each dough circle.

Step 8: Top each filled center with 2 cherries from the pie filling.

Step 9: Bake for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 10: Whisk the powdered sugar and milk together until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over each Danish. Optionally, sprinkle with slivered almonds for garnish.

Step 11: Repeat the process with the second tube of crescent rolls.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor twist, try substituting blueberry or raspberry pie filling instead of cherry.

To make the glaze thicker, add a little more powdered sugar. For a thinner glaze, add a bit more milk.

Chill the crescent rolls before cutting to make them easier to slice evenly.

Use sliced almonds for a delicate crunch, or omit nuts if allergies are a concern.

Storage

Store leftover Danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days and reheat gently in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore flakiness. These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen before glazing and thawed overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie filling instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Yes, homemade cherry pie filling works wonderfully and lets you control the sweetness and texture. Just be sure it’s thick enough to hold up when spooned onto the dough.

Do I need to thaw the crescent rolls before cutting?

It’s best to keep the crescent rolls chilled or slightly frozen when cutting so they slice cleanly and maintain their shape. Letting them warm too much can make them sticky and harder to handle.