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Giant Danish

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Giant Danish Recipe: A Sweet and Creamy Delight

Introduction

Imagine the perfect blend of flaky pastry, creamy cheesecake, and your favorite fruity pie filling—this is what you get with the Giant Danish! Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this delicious treat combines the convenience of refrigerated crescent rolls with a creamy filling to create a dish that tastes as though it came from a bakery. Incredibly easy to prepare, this Giant Danish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying with family on a lazy weekend morning. Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe, complete with tips and FAQs to make sure your Giant Danish turns out perfectly every time!

Ingredients for the Giant Danish

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls (8 oz each)
  • 16 oz cream cheese (at room temperature for easy mixing)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 can pie filling (any flavor you love—cherry, blueberry, peach, etc.)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

How to Make the Giant Danish

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a jelly roll pan (or a rimmed baking sheet) with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Form the Bottom Crust

  1. Unroll and Press Crescent Dough
    Open one can of crescent roll dough and unroll it directly onto the prepared pan. Gently press the dough into the bottom of the pan, sealing any perforations to create a solid crust. Bake this bottom layer for 4 minutes to set the crust slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
    While the dough is pre-baking, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Danish Layers

  1. Spread Cream Cheese Mixture
    Remove the pre-baked crust from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust, reaching all the way to the edges.
  2. Add the Pie Filling
    Spoon your chosen pie filling (cherry, blueberry, peach, or any flavor you like) over the cream cheese layer, scattering it evenly. It’s okay if some of the cream cheese filling shows through the pie filling—this adds a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 5: Top with Crescent Roll Triangles

  1. Add the Top Layer of Crescent Rolls
    Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough. Separate it into triangles and arrange them evenly over the pie filling. Leave some gaps for a rustic look and to let the filling peek through.

Step 6: Bake the Giant Danish

  1. Bake Until Golden Brown
    Place the assembled Danish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cream cheese filling has set.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  1. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
    Allow the Giant Danish to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares. For a finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Perfect Giant Danish

  • Soften the Cream Cheese
    Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will ensure a smooth and lump-free filling.
  • Choose Your Favorite Pie Filling
    Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Cherry, apple, blueberry, and peach pie fillings are all excellent choices. You can even try mixing two flavors for a unique twist.
  • Bake the Bottom Crust First
    Pre-baking the bottom layer of dough for a few minutes helps it to stay firm and prevents it from becoming soggy once the filling is added.
  • Adjust Baking Time if Needed
    Ovens can vary, so check on your Danish after about 25 minutes. It’s done when the top layer is golden brown, and the cream cheese mixture has firmed up.
  • Cool Completely Before Slicing
    Let the Danish cool in the pan to help it set. Slicing too soon can cause the layers to separate or the filling to run.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated crescent rolls?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade crescent dough or puff pastry recipe, feel free to use it. However, be sure to adjust the baking time as needed since homemade dough may take slightly longer to cook.

Q2: What pie filling flavors work best for this recipe?
Any fruit pie filling works wonderfully in this recipe! Popular choices include cherry, blueberry, apple, and peach. For a more decadent option, you can even use chocolate or Nutella as a filling.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Giant Danish a day in advance. Once baked and cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds to enjoy it warm.

Q4: How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer it warm, reheat individual servings in the microwave.

Q5: Can I freeze the Giant Danish?
Yes, this Danish can be frozen after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven.

Q6: How can I add a twist to this recipe?
For an added twist, try adding a layer of crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar between the cream cheese layer and the top crust. You could also experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond extract, in place of vanilla.

Q7: Can I add fresh fruit instead of pie filling?
Fresh fruit can be used, but it’s best to combine it with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a thickened fruit layer. Add a half cup of sugar and a tablespoon of cornstarch to 1-2 cups of fresh fruit and let it sit for about 10 minutes before adding it to the Danish.

Q8: Do I have to use a jelly roll pan?
A jelly roll pan or any rimmed baking sheet works best, but you can also use a 9×13-inch baking dish if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that the Danish may be thicker and may take a little longer to bake.

Enjoy this easy and delightful Giant Danish recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and sweet fruity topping, it’s bound to become a favorite for family gatherings, brunches, and more!

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