Cream Cheese Danish Bars are a simple yet delectable treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Using refrigerated crescent roll dough and a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling, this recipe brings the taste of a classic Danish pastry without the fuss of homemade pastry dough. With a golden, flaky crust and a luscious cream cheese center, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Fresh berries or a fruit topping add a splash of color and freshness, making this dessert as pretty as it is delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls – The base of the recipe, providing a flaky, golden crust.
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened – Forms the creamy filling; softened cream cheese ensures smoothness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a touch of flavor to the filling.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Used in the glaze for a sweet finish.
• 1/4 cup milk – Helps to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency for the glaze.
• Optional: fresh berries or fruit for topping – Adds color and a pop of freshness.

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Crust

1. Unroll the first can of crescent rolls: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing together any seams to create a solid layer.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to beat until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Add the vanilla extract: Pour in the vanilla extract and continue mixing until it’s fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Spread the cream cheese filling: Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust in the baking dish.
2. Add the top layer of crescent rolls: Unroll the second can of crescent rolls and carefully lay it over the cream cheese filling. Gently press the edges and seams together to form a solid layer.

Step 5: Bake the Danish Bars

1. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top layer of crescent rolls is golden brown and flaky. Check for doneness by gently pressing the center to ensure it’s set.
2. Cool the bars: Remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before adding the glaze.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

1. Combine powdered sugar and milk: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or a bit more milk if it’s too thick.

Step 7: Add the Glaze and Toppings

1. Drizzle the glaze: Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top, using a spoon or a piping bag for more control.
2. Add optional toppings: If desired, garnish with fresh berries or fruit slices for a vibrant finish.

Step 8: Serve

1. Slice and enjoy: Cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve. These bars can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 18g
• Sodium: 250mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients and serving sizes used.

 

FAQs:

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, though it may result in a slightly less creamy texture. Avoid fat-free cream cheese, as it can affect the consistency and flavor of the filling.

2. Can I substitute crescent rolls with puff pastry?
Puff pastry can be used if desired, though it will give the bars a different texture. Bake as directed but keep an eye on the browning, as puff pastry may cook faster.

3. Can I add fruit to the filling?
Yes, small fruit pieces like blueberries or diced strawberries can be mixed into the cream cheese filling. Be sure to use fruits that aren’t too juicy, as excess moisture can make the bars soggy.

4. Do I have to use the glaze?
The glaze adds sweetness and a nice finish, but you can skip it if you prefer a less sweet option. Alternatively, dust with powdered sugar for a simple topping.

5. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, using a gluten-free crescent roll dough will make these bars gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free, especially if serving to those with sensitivities.

Tips for Making Perfect Cream Cheese Danish Bars:

1. Soften the cream cheese fully: For a smooth filling, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing. This will prevent lumps in the filling.
2. Press the crescent rolls firmly: Press together any seams in the crescent roll dough to ensure a solid, cohesive crust. This will make for neater bars that hold together well when sliced.
3. Let the bars cool before glazing: Cooling completely helps the glaze set properly on the bars, giving them a neat and professional look.
4. Experiment with flavors: You can add a hint of lemon zest to the filling for a touch of brightness or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on the top crust for a cozy flavor.
5. Use a serrated knife for cutting: For the cleanest slices, use a serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts to prevent smearing the filling.