Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. This will ensure that your crescent ring doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier. The aroma of the oven warming up is the first hint of the deliciousness to come!
In a large bowl, combine 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 large egg, ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest. Using a hand mixer, beat these ingredients on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Look for a fluffy texture that is well-blended.
Open the two tubes of 2 (8-ounce) refrigerated crescent rolls. Carefully unroll the dough and arrange it on the sheet pan so the thick ends of the triangles overlap, curving them into a large oval shape in the center. The points should fan out like a sunburst. This shape not only looks impressive but also helps the filling cook evenly.
Spread the creamy mixture over the thickest part of the crescent rolls. Use a spatula to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Next, spoon the 1 (21-ounce) can of raspberry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Make sure every bite has that delicious raspberry flavor!
To finish assembling, fold the points of the triangles over the top of the filling, tucking them under the edge of the dough on the opposite side. This creates a beautiful, sealed ring that will bake up perfectly.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 23 to 26 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown color on the crescent rolls. The kitchen will be filled with irresistible smells as it bakes.
Once the baking time is up, take the pastry out of the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. While it cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together ⅔ cup powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until it reaches a slightly runny consistency. This glaze will add a sweet finish to your pastry.
Once the pastry has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top generously. The contrast of the white glaze against the golden pastry is simply stunning. Finally, slice and serve your Raspberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring warm, and enjoy the delightful reactions of your friends and family!