Almond Danish Swirls

This is such an easy little pastry to make and is it ever tasty!!! They are very impressive also. No one would even suspect how easy these little babies are to make. Of course, this is another winner from Paula Deen. Again, one of the many recipes my husband has requested I try.

I am looking forward to a nice long weekend. Think we all need a break here! The weather here is cooperating also....let's just hope it holds out for the whole weekend. The pools here all open this weekend but I have a feeling they will be extremely cold! I'm not one to brave that but my 10 year old is. I don't know what it is but kids are just not bothered by how cold the water is! Maybe they are too busy having fun! Have a great, long weekend everyone!!!

6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup slivered almonds, chopped fine
2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1 egg white
1 teaspoon water

Glaze:

1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
4 teaspoons milk
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, almond extract and sugar until fluffy. Fold half of the chopped almonds into the cream cheese mixture. Separate one can of dough and assemble into 4 rectangles. Firmly press the perforations to seal. Press or roll each piece of dough to form a 7 by 4 inch rectangle, and spread each with about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese filling to within 1/4 inch of the edges. Starting at the short end, roll each rectangle tightly into a cylinder. Repeat with the other can of dough and remaining filling.

Place on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and chill until firm, about 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, while the rolls are chilling.

Remove from the refrigerator and cut each roll into 4 slices. Place 1/2 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. In a small bowl, combine the egg white and 1 teaspoon water. Brush over the swirls. Sprinkle with the remaining chopped almonds. Bake 1 to 20 minutes, or until light brown.

While the swirls are baking, combine the glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Cool the swirls for 3 minutes on wire racks placed over a sheet of waxed paper. Drizzle the icing over the warm swirls.

Note: The swirls can really be filled with any filling of your choice.