These King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish transform the beloved soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls into an irresistible breakfast treat or dessert. With a creamy cheesecake filling, buttery cinnamon-sugar topping, and that signature Hawaiian roll sweetness, these individual danishes are absolutely heavenly. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it builds on the inherent qualities of King’s Hawaiian Rolls. Their soft, slightly sweet texture provides the perfect base for both the creamy filling and the crisp topping. The cream cheese fillingadds rich, tangy contrast to the sweet rolls. The cinnamon-sugar butter topping creates a caramelized, crunchy crust as it bakes. Together, they create a danish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.
The Complete Recipe: King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time:20-25 minutes | Total Time: 35-40 minutes | Servings: 12
Ingredients
For the Base and Topping:
-
1 package (12 count) King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
-
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus 1 tablespoon for greasing)
-
2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
-
½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
¼ cup granulated sugar
-
1 large egg yolk
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Without separating the rolls, use a sharp knife to cut a “well” in the top of each roll. You want to create a small hollow space for the filling without cutting all the way through to the bottom. A simple way is to cut a circle about ¾ of the way down into each roll.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Fill the Rolls
Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into the wells you created in each roll. Don’t overfill—a generous teaspoon per roll is usually perfect.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Butter Topping
In a small bowl, combine the ⅓ cup melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Place the filled rolls in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the tops of all the rolls, letting it drizzle down the sides.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the filling is set.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the danishes cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake Danish
-
Room Temperature Cream Cheese:Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth, lump-free filling.
-
Don’t Cut Through: Be careful when creating the wells—you want a pocket for the filling, not a hole through the bottom.
-
Even Filling: Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for neat, even filling.
-
Watch the Bake: Check at 20 minutes. You want golden tops and set filling, not overbaked rolls.
-
Serve Warm: These are absolutely best served warm, when the filling is still soft and the topping is crispy.
Delicious Variations
-
Berry Cheesecake: Add a small raspberry or strawberry to the filling before baking.
-
Chocolate Cheesecake: Add 2 tablespoons of melted chocolate to the filling.
-
Lemon Cheesecake: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
-
Maple Cinnamon: Substitute maple syrup for half the brown sugar in the topping.
-
Nutty Danish: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the topping before baking.
Serving Suggestions
-
Serve warm for brunch with fresh fruit
-
Add to a holiday breakfast spread
-
Enjoy as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
-
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea
-
Drizzle with extra cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence
Storage and Reheating
-
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Reheating: Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes to restore warmth and crispness. The microwave works but will soften the topping.
-
Freezing: These danishes freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat gently in the oven.
Conclusion: A Show-Stopping Treat
These King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish prove that you don’t need complicated pastry skills to create something truly special. With the help of sweet Hawaiian rolls, you can have decadent, bakery-worthy danishes in under an hour.
Perfect for brunch, holidays, or anytime you want to impress, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Make them once, and you’ll understand why they’re a keeper.