Looking for a crowd-pleasing treat that blends buttery sweetness, creamy filling, and soft pillowy bread? This King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish combines the rich flavor of a classic cheesecake with the fluffy texture of sweet rolls — all wrapped up in a simple, elegant pastry.
Perfect for breakfast spreads, brunch gatherings, potlucks, or even a quick dessert, this recipe delivers gourmet flavor with minimal prep. The soft King’s Hawaiian rolls soak up the creamy filling while holding their shape, creating a gooey, golden-baked bite in every square.
Ingredients
Servings: 12
For the Base:
- 1 package (12 rolls) King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls (original)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg yolk (for richness)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ⅓ cup fruit preserves (strawberry, blueberry, or apricot work well)
- Optional: ¼ cup sliced almonds for crunch
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 18–20 minutes
- Cooling & Finishing: 10 minutes
- Total: ~45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Without separating the rolls, slice the entire loaf horizontally. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and egg yolk until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom layer of rolls.
Step 3: Layer and Top
- Replace the top half of the rolls.
- In a separate bowl, whisk sour cream, powdered sugar, and lemon zest together.
- Spoon dollops of this creamy topping on each roll.
- Add a small spoonful of fruit preserves to the center of each dollop.
- Sprinkle with sliced almonds if using.
Step 4: Bake and Glaze
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the filling is set.
- While baking, mix the glaze ingredients until smooth.
- Let the Danish cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle glaze over the top before serving warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh fruit and a cup of coffee for a luxurious brunch.
- Cut into individual rolls for easy sharing at parties or buffets.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a bakery-style finish.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Danish roll) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Sugars | 16g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Key Benefits:
- Cream cheese adds calcium and protein while providing a velvety texture.
- Lemon juice and zest brighten flavor and add vitamin C.
- Fruit preserves offer antioxidants and a pop of natural sweetness.
- King’s Hawaiian rolls ensure a soft, slightly sweet base with reliable structure.
Tips and Variations
- Make it mini: Separate the rolls and fill individually before baking for single-serving treats.
- Go savory: Swap fruit preserves for caramelized onions or cooked bacon for a savory twist.
- Add crunch: Top with crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans before baking.
- Chill and serve cold for a more cheesecake-forward dessert option.
This King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is the ultimate hybrid of brunch pastry and creamy dessert. It’s simple to prepare, visually impressive, and endlessly customizable — making it a favorite for hosts and sweet tooths alike.