Save This festive pastry is shaped like a candy cane and filled with a creamy blend of cheese and strawberry preserves. Baked to golden perfection, it's drizzled with vanilla icing and sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies. Ideal for holiday breakfasts or desserts, it's easy to make and sure to delight.
There was a morning last December when I realized my usual holiday breakfast spread needed a serious upgrade, so I grabbed some crescent dough on a whim.
I remember watching my kids eyes light up when they saw the giant candy cane shape coming out of the oven, warm and bubbling.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: This is the shortcut that makes the pastry flaky without hours of work
- Cream cheese: Make sure it is completely softened so it blends into a smooth layer
- Strawberry preserves: Choose a high quality brand with chunks of fruit for the best texture
- Crushed peppermint candies: These add the necessary crunch and festive look to the finished dish
Instructions
- Prep your oven and pan:
- Get the oven heating to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet to prevent sticking
- Shape the dough:
- Arrange the triangles on the sheet to form a large curved candy cane, pressing the edges together to seal them
- Make the filling:
- Beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until the mixture is light and fluffy
- Fill the center:
- Spread the cheese mixture down the middle of the dough strip and layer the preserves on top
- Wrap it up:
- Fold the pointed dough ends over the filling, tucking them underneath to keep that iconic hook shape
- Bake to golden:
- Slide the pan into the oven for about 15 to 18 minutes until the pastry turns a deep golden brown
- Whisk the icing:
- Stir together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until you have a smooth, pourable glaze
- Finish and serve:
- Drizzle the icing over the warm pastry and sprinkle with crushed candy immediately
Save Serving this on a snowy morning while steam rises from our mugs of cocoa has become my favorite way to start the season.
Swapping The Jam
Raspberry or cherry preserves work beautifully if you want to change the flavor profile slightly.
Getting The Shape Right
Use a picture of a candy cane as a reference if you are struggling with the curve on your first try.
Serving Suggestions
This pastry pairs best with something hot to cut through the sweetness.
- Serve with black coffee for adults
- Offer hot chocolate for the kids
- Keep extra napkins nearby because it gets sticky
Save Enjoy the magic of the season with every bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different preserves?
-
Yes, raspberry or cherry preserves work well as alternatives to strawberry.
- → How do I store leftovers?
-
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
-
Prepare the filling and dough ahead, but bake fresh for best results.
- → What if I don't have peppermint candies?
-
Red sanding sugar or sprinkles make a festive substitute.
- → Can I freeze the unbaked pastry?
-
Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw slightly before baking as directed.
