Name: Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring – A Sweet & Flaky Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484902H7M1S
Total time: PT-484902H7M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup raspberry preserves or fresh raspberries; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (if using fresh raspberries); 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling); ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Imagine pulling a golden, flaky pastry out of the oven, the scent of warm raspberries and cream cheese filling your kitchen. Each bite combines buttery crescent roll dough, sweet raspberry filling, and creamy, tangy cream cheese, creating a perfectly balanced dessert or brunch dish.

And what’s more, this Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring is incredibly easy to make! With just a few ingredients, including store-bought crescent roll dough, you can create a beautiful, bakery-style pastry in under an hour. It’s an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a last-minute dessert when you want something elegant yet effortless.

Furthermore, this recipe is completely customizable. You can swap raspberries for blueberries, strawberries, or even chocolate chips to match your personal taste. If you love baking and want to master dough handling, check out this Sourdough Bagel Recipe – A Step-by-Step Guide for expert insights on working with different types of dough.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring isn’t just a beautifully crafted pastry—it’s also delicious, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or a simple family treat, you’ll love how effortlessly it comes together.

If you love fruit-based pastries, you might also enjoy this Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe – A Tropical Delight for another light and flavorful treat.

1. Quick & Easy to Make

First, this recipe uses store-bought crescent dough, which saves you time while still delivering a flaky, buttery texture. There’s no kneading or waiting for dough to rise, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute desserts.

2. A Perfect Flavor Balance

What’s more, the combination of tart raspberries, creamy cheesecake filling, and light, crispy pastry creates an irresistible contrast. The sweetness of the cream cheese mixture pairs beautifully with the fruity brightness of raspberries, giving every bite a burst of flavor.

3. Elegant Yet Beginner-Friendly

Besides being delicious, this crescent ring looks impressive and bakery-quality, yet it requires no special baking skills. The ring shape adds a beautiful presentation, making it a great dish to bring to brunches, tea parties, or festive gatherings.

4. Completely Customizable

Finally, this recipe is highly adaptable! If raspberries aren’t your favorite, you can easily swap them out for:

Blueberries or strawberries for a different fruit twist.
Nutella or chocolate chips for a richer dessert.
Lemon curd or apricot preserves for a bright citrusy touch.

What Is a Crescent Ring?

A crescent ring is a beautifully shaped, filled pastry made using crescent roll dough, typically arranged in a circular pattern. It’s both flaky and tender, with a soft, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with sweet or savory fillings.

And then, unlike traditional danishes or turnovers, a crescent ring is assembled by overlapping crescent dough triangles into a ring, adding filling in the center, and folding the dough over to create a sealed shape. This technique locks in the flavors while making it easy to slice and serve.

Furthermore, crescent rings have gained popularity because they are:
✔️ Easy to make – No special dough skills required!
✔️ Versatile – Works for both sweet and savory recipes.
✔️ Perfect for sharing – Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or parties.

Besides that, many bakers love using crescent roll dough as a quick alternative to homemade pastry dough.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Most of these are pantry staples, making this an easy, go-to recipe whenever you want a quick, delicious pastry.

🛒 For the Crescent Ring:

1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup raspberry preserves or fresh raspberries
1 tablespoon cornstarch (if using fresh raspberries)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)

🍯 For the Glaze (Optional):

½ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

📌 Can I Use Fresh Raspberries Instead of Preserves?
Yes! If using fresh raspberries, mix them with 1 tablespoon cornstarch to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. This helps the berries hold their shape while baking.

📌 What If I Want a Different Fruit Flavor?
You can easily swap raspberries for:
✔️ Blueberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
✔️ Peach or apricot preserves for a summery flavor.
✔️ Nutella or chocolate chips for a decadent treat.

📌 Dairy-Free Option?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and a vegan-friendly crescent roll dough for a lactose-free version.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make a Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble and bake your flaky, fruity, and creamy crescent ring. Follow these simple steps to achieve a golden, bakery-style pastry with minimal effort!

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.

📌 Pro Tip: If your cream cheese isn’t soft enough, microwave it for 10 seconds to make mixing easier.

Step 2: Roll Out & Shape the Crescent Dough

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles.
On a parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the triangles in a circle shape, with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the pointed ends facing outward.

📌 Pro Tip: The dough should look like a sunburst pattern with space in the center for the filling.

Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese & Raspberry Filling

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly around the center of the dough ring.
Spoon the raspberry preserves (or fresh raspberries mixed with cornstarch) on top of the cream cheese layer.

📌 Pro Tip: Don’t overfill the ring! Keeping a ½-inch border will prevent the filling from leaking out while baking.

Step 4: Fold & Seal the Crescent Ring

Take each triangle tip and gently fold it over the filling.
Tuck the pointed ends under the dough at the center, ensuring a sealed ring shape.
Lightly press the dough to secure the seams.

📌 Pro Tip: If any filling spills out, use a spoon to gently tuck it back inside before sealing the dough.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash & Bake

In a small bowl, whisk 1 egg with 1 teaspoon of water.
Use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash over the dough—this will create a golden, glossy crust.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar on top for added crunch.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

📌 Pro Tip: If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Step 6: Make & Drizzle the Glaze (Optional)

In a bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Once the crescent ring has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.

📌 Pro Tip: Let the ring cool for 10 minutes before slicing to help the filling set properly.

If you’re interested in learning secrets to making soft and chewy pastries, take a look at What is the Secret to Making Cookies Soft and Chewy? for expert baking tips!

Expert Tips for a Perfect Crescent Ring

Now that you’ve mastered the step-by-step process, let’s go over some expert tips to ensure your Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring turns out flaky, golden, and delicious every time.

1. Keep the Dough Cold

Why? Crescent dough is easier to work with when chilled. If it gets too warm, it becomes sticky and harder to shape.
Solution: If needed, pop the dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before assembling.

2. Don’t Overfill the Ring

Too much filling can cause leaks while baking.
Spread the cream cheese and raspberry mixture in a thin layer, leaving at least a ½-inch border around the edges.

3. Use an Egg Wash for a Golden Crust

Brushing the dough with an egg wash (1 egg + 1 tsp water) before baking creates a shiny, golden-brown finish.

4. Prevent Soggy Dough

Baking on parchment paper prevents the bottom from getting too soft.
If using fresh raspberries, mix them with cornstarch to absorb extra moisture.

5. Let It Cool Before Slicing

The filling sets better after resting for 10 minutes out of the oven.
Cutting it too soon can cause the filling to spill out.

“A few simple tweaks—like keeping the dough cold and letting it rest—can turn a good crescent ring into a bakery-quality pastry!”

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about a Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring is that it’s completely customizable. Whether you want a fruitier, nuttier, or even a chocolatey twist, there are plenty of ways to switch up this recipe.

1. Chocolate Raspberry Crescent Ring 🍫

For a more indulgent dessert, add chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer.

✅ Use ½ cup of mini chocolate chips
✅ Keep the raspberry preserves or replace them with Nutella
✅ Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch

📌 Pro Tip: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate instead of the glaze for an elegant finish.

2. Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Ring 🍋

Want a brighter, citrusy version? Swap raspberries for blueberries and add a hint of lemon zest!

✅ Use ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, thaw and drain)
✅ Mix 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the cream cheese filling
✅ Top with powdered sugar instead of glaze for a light finish

📌 Pro Tip: A sprinkle of sliced almonds before baking adds a delicious crunch.

3. Strawberry Cheesecake Crescent Ring 🍓

For a strawberry lovers’ twist, replace raspberries with strawberry preserves or fresh sliced strawberries.

✅ Use ½ cup strawberry preserves or sliced strawberries
✅ Mix 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the cream cheese filling
✅ Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream after baking

📌 Pro Tip: Try a graham cracker crumb topping for a true cheesecake feel!

4. Caramel Pecan Crescent Ring 🥜

Love rich, nutty flavors? This version combines caramel sauce and toasted pecans for a cozy treat.

✅ Drizzle 2 tablespoons caramel sauce over the cream cheese layer
✅ Add ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans before folding the dough
✅ Serve warm with extra caramel sauce

📌 Pro Tip: Use brown sugar instead of powdered sugar in the filling for a deeper caramelized taste.

5. Cinnamon Apple Crescent Ring 🍏

For a fall-inspired variation, swap raspberries for apples and cinnamon.

✅ Dice ½ cup of apples and toss with 1 teaspoon cinnamon + 1 tablespoon sugar
✅ Replace raspberry preserves with apple butter or caramel sauce
✅ Serve with a dusting of cinnamon sugar

📌 Pro Tip: Try this version warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with a Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring

A Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and drinks can elevate your experience. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion, here are some perfect pairings to complement its flaky, creamy, and fruity flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad🍓

Adding a side of fresh fruit keeps the meal light and refreshing.

✅ Best fruit pairings: strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, grapes, and oranges
✅ A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon enhances the flavors
✅ For extra elegance, top with a few fresh mint leaves

📌 Pro Tip: A fruit salad with citrus elements balances the richness of the cream cheese filling.

2. Coffee or Herbal Tea☕

A warm cup of coffee or tea is a classic pairing for a flaky pastry.

✅ Black coffee or espresso complements the sweetness of the crescent ring
✅ Herbal teas like chamomile, hibiscus, or mint bring out the raspberry’s fruitiness
✅ Chai tea with its spiced notes pairs wonderfully with a cinnamon apple variation

📌 Pro Tip: Try a vanilla or caramel latte for a dessert-inspired coffee pairing.

3. Vanilla Yogurt or Whipped Cream🥛

Adding a creamy element enhances the cheesecake-like filling of the crescent ring.

✅ Vanilla Greek yogurt adds a slight tanginess that complements the raspberries
✅ Whipped cream makes it feel more like a dessert pastry
✅ Coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free alternative

📌 Pro Tip: Sprinkle granola or chopped nuts on the yogurt for a crunchy contrast.

4. Drizzled Honey or Maple Syrup🍯

If you love extra sweetness, a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup makes this crescent ring even more indulgent.

✅ Honey pairs best with berries and cream cheese flavors
✅ Maple syrup works beautifully with nutty or caramel-based variations
✅ For a unique touch, try lavender-infused honey or cinnamon-spiced maple syrup

📌 Pro Tip: Drizzle just before serving so it doesn’t make the pastry soggy.

5. Lemon or Raspberry Sauce🍋

For an extra burst of flavor, serve your crescent ring with a zesty fruit sauce.

✅ Lemon curd enhances the tartness of raspberries
✅ Homemade raspberry sauce intensifies the fruity flavor
✅ Chocolate sauce is perfect for Nutella or chocolate chip variations

📌 Pro Tip: Warm the sauce slightly and serve on the side for dipping instead of pouring directly on the pastry.

Storage & Reheating Tips: Keeping Your Crescent Ring Fresh

If you have leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so delicious!), you’ll want to store and reheat your Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring properly to maintain its flaky texture and creamy filling. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty for later.

How to Store Your Crescent Ring

🌡️ Room Temperature (Same Day Serving)

If serving within a few hours, cover the crescent ring loosely with foil or plastic wrap.
Keep at room temperature for up to 6 hours to maintain crispiness.

📌 Pro Tip: Avoid airtight containers at room temperature, as they can make the pastry soggy.

❄️ Refrigerator (Up to 3 Days)

Place leftovers in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

📌 Pro Tip: If stacking slices, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

🧊 Freezer (Up to 2 Months)

For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

📌 Pro Tip: Label with the date so you know when to enjoy it before losing freshness.

How to Reheat Your Crescent Ring

🔥 Oven or Toaster Oven (Best Method for Crispiness)

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
Place the crescent ring on a baking sheet.
Warm for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

📌 Why? This method keeps the pastry flaky while gently reheating the filling.

🎯 Air Fryer (Quick & Crispy)

Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
Place the slice in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes.

📌 Why? The air fryer crisps up the outer layers without drying out the filling.

⚡ Microwave (Fast but Softens the Pastry)

Place the slice on a microwave-safe plate.
Heat for 15-20 seconds (adjust based on portion size).

📌 Why? The filling warms up quickly, but the pastry may soften instead of staying crisp.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Got questions about making the Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring? Here are some of the most common questions and expert answers to help you get the best results every time.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

✅ Yes! You can assemble the crescent ring the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge.
✅ When ready to bake, simply brush with egg wash and bake as directed—no need to adjust baking time.

📌 Pro Tip: If baking from chilled, add 1-2 extra minutes to ensure even browning.

2. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

✅ Absolutely! Puff pastry will give a flakier, crispier texture.
✅ If using puff pastry, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

✅ Don’t overfill—stick to about ½ cup total filling.
✅ Seal the edges well by pressing the dough firmly together.
✅ Use cold cream cheese so the filling stays thick while baking.

📌 Pro Tip: If you see small gaps, don’t worry! A little filling oozing out is normal and still delicious.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Pastry for Any Occasion

The Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring is the perfect blend of flaky, creamy, and fruity goodness—easy enough for a quick treat yet elegant enough for special occasions. Whether you’re making it for brunch, dessert, or a family gathering, its buttery crust, tangy raspberry filling, and rich cream cheese center make every bite irresistible.

With its simple ingredients, endless variations, and beginner-friendly steps, this crescent ring is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Try it today, and enjoy a bakery-style pastry right from home!