If you’ve ever dreamed of merging soft, fluffy sweet rolls with luscious cheesecake and fruity goodness, then this King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe is made for you. It’s a brilliant way to elevate King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls into an irresistible breakfast treat or a charming dessert, combining creamy, tangy cream cheese with the perfect swirl of preserves. Every bite offers a delightful balance of texture and flavor, making it a standout addition to any brunch table or cozy morning in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this heavenly danish. Each element plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture you’ll love.
- King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls (1 package, 12 rolls): The soft and sweet base that makes this recipe uniquely delightful and fluffy.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds rich creaminess and tang that’s essential for the cheesecake filling.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese just enough, balancing flavor without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the filling, enhancing the overall sweetness.
- Egg yolk (1): Helps smooth and set the cheesecake layer into a silky, luscious texture.
- Strawberry or raspberry preserves (1/2 cup): Provides a fruity burst and beautiful color contrast on the creamy layer.
- Egg (1 for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden finish on the danish tops for that irresistible look.
- Milk (1 tablespoon): Mixed with egg wash to ensure perfect brushing and browning.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For a delicate dusting that adds a touch of sweetness and elegance at serving.
How to Make King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the oven and rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations. Then, without pulling the rolls apart individually, slice the entire sheet of King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls horizontally, creating a bottom and top half that will hold your creamy filling perfectly.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and perfectly combined. This luscious filling is the heart of your danish and should have a silky texture that’s easy to spread.
Step 3: Assemble the danish
Lay the bottom half of the sweet roll sheet on your prepared baking sheet. Evenly spread your cheesecake filling over this base, then gently spoon the strawberry or raspberry preserves on top, spreading carefully to cover the entire surface without mixing the two layers.
Step 4: Add the top and egg wash
Place the top half of the rolls back over the filling and gently press down so everything stays in place. Next, whisk together the egg and milk to create a glossy egg wash, then brush it generously over the surface of the rolls to give the danish a beautiful golden-brown finish as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake and cool
Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 to 22 minutes or until the danish is golden brown and the cheesecake filling feels set to the touch. Let it cool slightly before optionally dusting with powdered sugar for a pretty finish. Then it’s ready to slice and enjoy!
How to Serve King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe
Garnishes
A light sprinkling of powdered sugar adds a charming sweet touch and eye-catching presentation, but for an extra pop of flavor and freshness, try adding a few fresh berries or a mint leaf on top. This simple step will make your danish feel even more special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. For a heartier spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to turn your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe into a truly indulgent brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the danish into individual squares and arrange on a pretty platter garnished with edible flowers or colorful fruit slices. You can even serve warm danish squares with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra decadent touch that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover danish in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the rolls soft and the filling fresh without drying out, so you can enjoy the same delicious flavors for breakfast or dessert later.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe ahead of time and save part for later, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Properly stored, they will keep well for up to 1 month, making it a convenient treat whenever you want.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked taste, gently rewarm slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This quick step revives the soft texture and enhances the melty cream cheese and fruit preserves for a comforting bite.
FAQs
Can I use different types of preserves in this recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberry or raspberry preserves are classic, feel free to experiment with apricot, blueberry, or even lemon curd for a citrusy twist. Each option will bring its own unique sweetness and flavor profile to your danish.
Do I have to use King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls?
King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls provide the perfect softness and subtle sweetness that make this recipe shine, but if unavailable, other sweet rolls or brioche can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind the final texture might differ slightly.
Is it possible to prepare this danish the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the danish the evening before, keep it refrigerated, and bake it fresh the next morning. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I substitute the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, there are dairy-free cream cheese options available that can be used in this recipe. The texture and flavor might vary a bit, but it’s a good way to make the danish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to cut the danish without squishing it?
Using a sharp serrated knife and slicing gently in a sawing motion helps keep the layers intact without compressing the cream cheese filling or crushing the soft rolls. Warm slices slightly for easier cutting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about bringing together the fluffy sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls with creamy cheesecake and luscious jam, and this King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Whether you’re treating your family on a weekend or looking for a dazzling brunch idea, this danish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed mornings without it!
Print
King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish featuring sweet rolls filled with a creamy cheesecake mixture and topped with fruity preserves. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this recipe combines soft rolls with a luscious cream cheese filling and a golden, baked finish.
Ingredients
Sweet Rolls
- 1 package (12 rolls) King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
Fruit Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry preserves
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Slice the Rolls: Without separating the rolls, carefully slice the entire sheet of King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls horizontally to create a top and bottom half. Place the bottom half on the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will form the rich, tangy base of the danish filling.
- Assemble the Danish: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the bottom half of the rolls. Then gently spoon the strawberry or raspberry preserves over the cream cheese layer, spreading carefully to cover without mixing.
- Top Layer: Place the top half of the rolls back over the filling and gently press down to secure the layers together.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and one tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls to help them brown beautifully in the oven.
- Bake: Bake in your preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the danish is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the danish to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired. Slice into individual danishes and serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute any fruit preserves you like, or try swirling in lemon curd for a citrus twist.
- This danish can be made ahead of time and gently reheated before serving.
- For a decorative touch, dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
