Save to Pinterest This festive pastry is shaped like a candy cane and filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, topped with strawberry preserves. After baking to golden perfection, it's drizzled with a sweet vanilla icing and sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies for a holiday touch. Ready in 35 minutes, it's a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert.
There is something undeniably cheerful about red and white stripes during the holidays, especially when they involve pastry.
I remember pulling this out of the oven last year and watching my family members actually fight over the end piece.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: This shortcut ensures flaky layers without the stress of making pastry from scratch.
- Cream cheese: Make sure it is completely softened so you do not get lumps in your filling.
- Strawberry preserves: Use a high quality jam for the best flavor impact.
- Crushed peppermint candies: These add the signature crunch and festive look.
Instructions
- Prep your station:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the base:
- Arrange the dough triangles in a long curve on the sheet and press the seams together tightly.
- Make the filling:
- Whip the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until it is silky smooth.
- Add the layers:
- Spread the cheese mix down the center and top with a strip of strawberry preserves.
- Wrap it up:
- Fold the triangle points over the filling to create that braided candy cane look.
- Bake to golden:
- Pop it in the oven for about 15 minutes until the dough is puffed and golden brown.
- Finish with flair:
- Drizzle the vanilla icing over the warm pastry and shower it with crushed peppermint.
Save to Pinterest This treat quickly became the star of our Christmas morning breakfast table.
Making It Ahead
You can actually assemble the entire candy cane on the parchment paper and freeze it unbaked.
Serving Suggestions
A steaming mug of hot chocolate is the perfect companion to cut through the rich sweetness.
Flavor Twists
Do not be afraid to swap the jam for something tart like raspberry if that is your preference.
- Try adding almond extract to the filling for a nutty note.
- A pinch of sea salt on top balances the sugar nicely.
- Chopped pistachios make for a beautiful green garnish.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy every bite of this festive favorite.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → Can I use a different fruit preserves?
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Yes, you can swap strawberry preserves for raspberry or cherry for a different fruity twist.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
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Prepare and bake the pastry ahead, then add icing and toppings just before serving for the best texture.
- → What can I use instead of crescent dough?
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Puff pastry works as a good alternative if you prefer a flakier texture.
- → How can I make it less sweet?
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Use lightly sweetened fruit preserves and reduce the powdered sugar in the icing.
