King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish: Your New Favorite Decadent Treat!
Hey there, Jason Griffith here! We all love those soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls, right? They’re amazing on their own, but what if I told you they could be transformed into an unbelievably decadent, easy-to-make danish that tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery? Get ready for the King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish – a delightful fusion of fluffy brioche-like rolls and a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling, all topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar crunch. This treat is perfect for a special breakfast, an elegant brunch, or a simple, indulgent dessert!
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m always on the lookout for recipes that elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary with minimal effort. This King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish recipe is a prime example. What I particularly love about it is the incredible contrast of textures: the pillowy softness of the warmed King’s Hawaiian roll combined with the smooth, rich cheesecake filling. The hint of vanilla, the sweet cinnamon sugar topping, and the final dusting of powdered sugar create a symphony of flavors that is truly addictive. It looks incredibly impressive, but it’s deceptively easy to make, making it perfect for last-minute guests or when you want to treat yourself to something truly special.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these heavenly danishes:
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12 count)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat for best results)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (unsalted preferred)
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (easily made with 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar mixed with 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Swaps and Notes
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: These are essential for the signature soft, sweet base. While other dinner rolls might work, the unique texture and sweetness of Hawaiian rolls are key here.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature, for the creamiest, smoothest filling.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract will give the best flavor.
- Egg Yolk: The egg yolk adds richness and helps the filling set beautifully.
- Cinnamon Sugar: You can make your own with granulated sugar and cinnamon (as suggested) or use a store-bought blend. Adjust the cinnamon to your taste.
- Toppings: While powdered sugar is classic, a light drizzle of cream cheese glaze (powdered sugar, a touch of milk, and vanilla) could also be a delicious addition after baking.
Directions
Making these King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes is incredibly simple and quick, perfect for a delightful morning treat!
- Preheat Oven & Prep Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Rolls: Carefully slice each King’s Hawaiian Sweet Roll in half horizontally, but not all the way through. You want to create a pocket or hinge that opens like a book, allowing you to stuff the filling inside while keeping the roll intact.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Using a whisk or a handheld mixer, mix until the filling is completely smooth, creamy, and well combined, with no lumps.
- Fill the Rolls: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the pocket of each sweet roll. You can use a small spoon or even a piping bag (without a tip, just snip the corner) for easier and neater filling. Be generous but don’t overfill, as it might ooze out during baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the filled rolls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other too much. This allows them to bake evenly and get nicely golden.
- Brush & Sprinkle: In a small bowl, melt the 1/4 cup butter. Brush the tops of the filled rolls generously with the melted butter. Then, evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the tops of all the rolls.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown, the filling is set and slightly puffed, and the cinnamon sugar is caramelized.
- Cool & Dust: Allow the danishes to cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a serving platter. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy these King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes warm, as a decadent breakfast treat or a sweet dessert that combines the soft, fluffy texture of brioche rolls with the creamy richness of cheesecake.
Tips for Success
- Softened Cream Cheese: This is the most crucial tip for the filling! If your cream cheese isn’t soft, it will be lumpy.
- Don’t Cut All the Way Through: Be careful when slicing the rolls to ensure you create a pocket, not two separate halves.
- Even Filling: Try to distribute the filling evenly among the rolls for consistent baking and enjoyment.
- Serve Warm: While still delicious at room temperature, these danishes are absolutely best enjoyed warm, when the filling is melty and the rolls are soft.
- Adjust Sweetness: You can slightly adjust the amount of sugar in the cream cheese filling to your preference.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes are perfect on their own for a satisfying sweet treat. They make an excellent addition to a brunch spread, a delightful breakfast with coffee or tea, or a simple yet elegant dessert after dinner. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee, a refreshing glass of milk, or even a light fruit salad to balance the richness. If you’re a fan of comforting, baked sweets, you might also enjoy my These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat or my beloved This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store any leftover King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave for 15-30 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-10 minutes, until the filling is warm and soft again.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed the sweet, comforting flavors and easy preparation of these danishes, here are a few more delightful recipes that I think you’ll absolutely love:
- For another crowd-pleasing dessert that’s quick to assemble, check out my This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd.
- If you’re a fan of rich and indulgent treats, you’ll adore my These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession.
- And for another effortless way to impress guests with a cheesy appetizer, don’t miss my This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests.
Final Thoughts
These King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes are a truly delightful and surprisingly simple way to create a special treat. They combine comfort, elegance, and incredible flavor into one perfect bite. Give them a try, and prepare for a new favorite for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!
What’s your favorite way to transform a simple ingredient into something extraordinary? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and inspiring recipes!
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