These King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes bring together the soft, pillowy texture of Hawaiian rolls with the luscious creaminess of cheesecake filling. Topped with a sweet glaze, they are the perfect blend of fluffy and indulgent in every bite.
This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for a festive brunch, a holiday gathering, or an anytime dessert. The cream cheese filling, lightly sweetened and smooth, pairs beautifully with the warm rolls, while the glaze adds a delightful touch of sweetness. Serve these danishes warm, and watch them disappear from the table!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 package of King’s Hawaiian Rolls (12 rolls)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice each King’s Hawaiian Roll in half horizontally and arrange the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and flour until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Place the top halves of the rolls back onto the bottoms, creating a sandwich with the cream cheese filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown.
- While the danishes are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
- Remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm danishes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 28 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Origin and Inspiration
This recipe is inspired by the soft, sweet, and iconic King’s Hawaiian Rolls, known for their fluffy texture and slightly sweet taste. Combining these rolls with a cheesecake filling creates a dessert that’s both decadent and approachable, perfect for home bakers looking for a quick and impressive treat. The idea of stuffing bread with sweet fillings is a tradition seen in various cuisines, but this particular recipe offers a modern twist that brings together classic cheesecake flavors with a beloved bakery staple.
Versatility of the Recipe
This recipe is highly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions:
- Filling Variations: Add fruit preserves, such as strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry, to the cream cheese filling for a fruity touch.
- Glaze Enhancements: Try using a lemon or orange zest-infused glaze to add a citrusy brightness.
- Toppings: Sprinkle crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even mini chocolate chips over the glaze for added texture and flavor.
- Dietary Modifications: Use low-fat cream cheese and sugar substitutes to create a lighter version of this dessert.
Pro Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Even Filling Distribution: Use a piping bag or a spoon to evenly distribute the cream cheese mixture for uniform taste in every bite.
- Perfect Glaze: Start with 1 tablespoon of milk when making the glaze and gradually add more to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These danishes are best served slightly warm, allowing the cream cheese filling to remain creamy and the glaze to melt into the rolls for an irresistible texture. Pair them with:
- A hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
They are ideal for sharing during holidays, weekend gatherings, or as an afternoon snack.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the danishes in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the soft and creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and bake time, this recipe is perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and soft, sweet rolls is universally loved, making it a hit at any event.
- Customizable: Adapt it with your favorite flavors and toppings to make it your own.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish stands out because it combines the pillowy sweetness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with the creamy decadence of cheesecake filling. The simplicity of using pre-made rolls as the base ensures this recipe is both quick and foolproof, while the rich cream cheese filling and glaze elevate it into an impressive dessert or brunch item.
History of King’s Hawaiian Rolls
King’s Hawaiian Rolls originated in the 1950s in Hilo, Hawaii, and were inspired by Portuguese sweet bread. Their unique combination of a soft, fluffy texture with a slightly sweet flavor has made them a household favorite across the United States. Pairing these rolls with a cheesecake filling brings a modern twist to a beloved classic, making this recipe a great way to celebrate the brand’s legacy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This recipe is versatile enough to be served on multiple occasions:
- Brunch: Impress guests with these warm, gooey danishes at your next gathering.
- Holidays: Their sweet and indulgent nature makes them a fantastic choice for holiday breakfasts or desserts.
- Quick Treat: They’re easy enough to whip up for a weekday dessert or a weekend family treat.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: Their fluffy texture and slight sweetness are the perfect base for the creamy filling.
- Cream Cheese: The star ingredient of the filling, offering a smooth and tangy richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling.
- Glaze: A simple mix of powdered sugar and milk ties everything together with a touch of extra sweetness.
Variations to Try
- Fruit-Filled Cheesecake Danish: Add a layer of fruit preserves like strawberry, raspberry, or apricot for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Topping: Sprinkle crushed almonds, pecans, or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Lover’s Danish: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze or mix cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling.
- Seasonal Flavors: Add pumpkin spice or cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture for a festive flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Avoid Soggy Rolls: Bake until the rolls are golden to ensure they have a slight crust while remaining soft inside.
- Perfect Glaze: Drizzle the glaze while the danishes are still warm for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Pairing Ideas
These cheesecake danishes pair wonderfully with:
- Drinks: Coffee, hot chocolate, or a chilled glass of milk.
- Sides: A fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfait for a balanced brunch.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze unglazed danishes for up to 1 month. Thaw and warm them before adding the glaze.
- Reheating: Pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
Fun Fact
This recipe is a fusion of two favorites—sweet bread and cheesecake! It combines the nostalgic flavor of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with the rich indulgence of a classic cheesecake dessert, making it a treat that appeals to all ages.
Conclusion
The King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is a simple yet indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. With its fluffy rolls, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet glaze, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and even easier to love. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a quick snack, this recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite in your kitchen.