The Festive Candy Cane Danish Recipe That Sparkles With Joy

Sweet whispers of holiday magic dance through my kitchen whenever I whip up this delightful candy cane danish.

Peppermint-infused pastry layers promise a festive morning surprise that melts hearts instantly.

Nordic baking traditions inspire this delectable treat, combining flaky textures with cool mint essence.

Crisp winter mornings deserve something special that sparkles with seasonal cheer.

Delicate swirls of buttery dough embrace vibrant red-and-white peppermint hints, creating an irresistible breakfast centerpiece.

Each bite connects us to cherished memories and warm kitchen gatherings.

Prepare to experience a breakfast sensation that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary celebrations.

Dough and Filling in Candy Cane Danish

• Crescent Rolls: Soft, flaky dough that creates the base and structure of the danish with delicate layers.
• Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy release from the baking sheet.
• Parchment Paper: Non-stick surface that protects the baking sheet and helps with easy cleanup.

• Cream Cheese, Sugar: Creamy, sweet mixture that provides a rich and smooth base filling.
• Strawberry Jam: Adds fruity sweetness and vibrant color to the danish.
• Fresh Strawberries: Provides fresh texture and natural fruit flavor to complement the jam.

• Butter: Adds golden shine and rich flavor to the pastry surface.
• Granulated Sugar: Creates a light, sweet crunch on the exterior.
• Powdered Sugar, Milk: Creates a smooth, drizzling glaze that adds sweetness and visual appeal.

Candy Cane Danish Baking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare The Oven And Baking Surface

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese and sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Set the bowl aside for later use.

Step 3: Shape The Pastry Base

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles.

Cut each triangle in half lengthwise.

Arrange the triangles slightly left of the baking sheet’s center, with triangle points facing right.

Overlap the left edges by about 1 inch and pinch together to create a sealed base.

Step 4: Layer The Cream Cheese

Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture down the center of the dough, leaving a small border on each edge.

Step 5: Add Fruity Toppings

Spread strawberry jam over the cream cheese layer.

Sprinkle chopped strawberries evenly across the surface.

Step 6: Form The Candy Cane Shape

Carefully fold the dough tops over the filling and pinch edges to seal.

Gently lift and curve the dough to the right, creating a festive candy cane shape.

Step 7: Prepare For Baking

Brush the entire pastry with melted butter and dust with a light sprinkle of sugar.

Step 8: Bake To Golden Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes until the pastry turns a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 9: Create A Sweet Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar and milk together to create a smooth, drizzling glaze.

Step 10: Final Touch And Serving

Allow the danish to cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

Drizzle the prepared glaze over the top and serve while still warm for the best flavor and texture.

Danish Tips With Candy Cane Twist

• Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or diced peaches for a unique flavor twist that keeps the recipe exciting and adaptable.
• Sprinkle a thin layer of almond flour or crushed graham crackers under the cream cheese mixture to absorb excess moisture and maintain a crispy crust.
• Substitute crescent roll dough with gluten-free puff pastry or a homemade gluten-free dough to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
• Reduce sugar in cream cheese mixture by using a sugar substitute or adding natural sweeteners like honey or stevia for a healthier version.
• Use a pizza cutter for precise dough triangles and a silicone brush for even butter application to achieve a professional-looking candy cane danish.

Candy Cane Danish That Stays Flaky and Sweet Overnight

• Store leftover danish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap each piece individually with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Carefully place danish in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
• Warm danish at 325°F for 8-10 minutes, ensuring it's heated evenly without burning the delicate pastry. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
• Reheat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and avoid overheating to prevent soggy texture.

Sweet Sips For Candy Cane Danish

• Creamy Peppermint Mocha: Rich espresso blended with cool peppermint and smooth chocolate perfectly complements the sweet strawberry and cream cheese danish. The minty notes echo the candy cane theme while cutting through the pastry's richness.
• Warm Holiday Spice Tea: Cinnamon and clove-infused black tea provides a cozy counterpoint to the danish's sweet profile. The spicy warmth balances the strawberry's brightness and enhances the pastry's delicate flavor.
• Sparkling Cranberry Spritzer: Tart cranberry juice mixed with light sparkling water offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy, sweet danish. Bubbles cleanse the palate between bites, making each taste feel light and festive.
• Winter White Hot Chocolate: Silky white chocolate drink with subtle vanilla undertones mirrors the danish's creamy texture. Its gentle sweetness harmonizes with the strawberry and cream cheese filling without overwhelming the delicate pastry.

Candy Cane Danish Variants

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute crescent roll dough with gluten-free puff pastry or gluten-free crescent roll dough. Use dairy-free cream cheese for added allergen-friendly options.
• Vegan Candy Cane Danish: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Use plant-based milk for glaze and substitute strawberry jam with chia seed jam.
• Low-Sugar Danish: Use sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Replace strawberry jam with fresh berry compote made with minimal added sugar. Reduce sugar content in glaze by using sugar-free powdered sweetener.
• Holiday Spice Remix: Add ground cinnamon and nutmeg to cream cheese mixture. Incorporate dried cranberries alongside fresh strawberries. Sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces on top of glaze for festive winter flavor profile.

FAQs

• Can I use different fruit instead of strawberries?

Yes, you can substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even canned pie filling for a different flavor profile.

• Is it necessary to use crescent roll dough?

While crescent roll dough works best for this recipe, you can also use puff pastry or homemade danish dough as an alternative base.

• How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough tightly and fold the edges over the filling completely to create a sealed pocket that prevents leakage.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the danish up to the point of shaping and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.

Candy Cane Danish That’s Festive And Flaky

• Festive Design: Create a stunning candy cane-shaped pastry that looks like a professional bakery masterpiece with minimal effort.
• Super Speedy Preparation: Whip up this delightful treat in under 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy holiday gatherings or last-minute dessert cravings.
• Kid-Friendly Crafting: Engage children in an enjoyable baking experience by letting them help shape the dough and sprinkle sugar, making it a fun family activity.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Combine creamy cream cheese, sweet strawberry jam, and fresh strawberries for a delicious twist on traditional holiday treats that will impress guests.

Candy Cane Danish Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet holiday magic unfolds with this candy cane danish, a festive Danish pastry swirled with peppermint and cream cheese. Holiday bakers find pure winter delight in this elegant, red-and-white treat perfect for Christmas morning celebrations.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) can Pillsbury Original Crescent Rolls (8 count)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup chopped strawberries

Filling and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup strawberry jam
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Topping and Glaze Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 12 teaspoons milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 375°F and positioning parchment paper on a large baking sheet with a light cooking spray coating.
2. Create a smooth cream cheese mixture by whisking cream cheese and sugar until fully integrated and creamy.
3. Transform crescent roll dough by carefully separating into triangles and slicing each lengthwise, then strategically positioning on the baking sheet in an overlapping configuration with points facing right.
4. Distribute the cream cheese blend along the center of the dough arrangement, maintaining a small border on each edge for structural integrity.
5. Layer strawberry jam atop the cream cheese foundation, ensuring an even spread, then garnish with freshly chopped strawberries for added texture and flavor.
6. Carefully fold the dough edges over the filling, sealing the contents and gently curving the top section to mimic a traditional candy cane silhouette.
7. Enhance the pastry’s exterior by brushing with melted butter and sprinkling a delicate sugar coating.
8. Bake the danish for 16-18 minutes, monitoring until the pastry achieves a golden brown complexion.
9. Craft a smooth glaze by whisking powdered sugar with milk until achieving a consistent, drizzle-friendly consistency.
10. Allow the baked danish to cool momentarily, then elegantly finish by drizzling the prepared glaze and serving while still warm.

Notes

• Customize the cream cheese filling by adding vanilla extract or a hint of peppermint for extra festive flavor.
• Swap strawberries with other seasonal berries like raspberries or blueberries to create unique variations.
• Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Freeze the assembled danish before baking for a make-ahead holiday breakfast or dessert option.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg