Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Prepare the Crescent Dough:
Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface. Pinch the seams together to make a solid sheet, or separate it into individual triangles, depending on the shape you prefer. - Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk (if using). Mix until well combined. If you want a thicker filling, you can add 1 tablespoon of flour. Set the mixture aside. - Assemble the Danishes:
- If using the crescent dough in triangles, lay each triangle flat on the baking sheet.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese filling onto the wide end of each triangle.
- Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges together to form a little pocket or shape you like (such as a triangle, rectangle, or pinwheel).
Alternatively, if you want a more open pastry, you can form a small ring or square using the dough, leaving a center for the filling.
- Bake the Danishes:
Place the assembled danishes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the filling is set. - Make the Glaze (optional):
While the danishes are baking, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more milk to reach your desired consistency. - Finish and Serve:
Once the danishes are out of the oven, let them cool slightly, then drizzle the glaze over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature.