There’s something magical about those Hawaiian sweet rolls, isn’t there? Soft, sweet, and perfect for soaking up all the goodness. I figured, why not turn this magic into a breakfast dessert that my family just couldn’t resist? As it turns out, these cheesecake Danish rolls have become a staple in our home, especially when we’re looking to add a pinch of joy to our day.
Imagine filling those fluffy rolls with a creamy cheesecake mixture that melts into each bite, topped off with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Oh, it’s heavenly, alright! The aroma that fills the house while they bake is simply irresistible. There’s always that moment when I see my kids’ eyes light up as they take their first bite—priceless! Even my husband, who’s more a savory breakfast guy, can’t help but reach for seconds.
It’s not just about the taste, though that’s a big part of it. It’s the joyful experience of creating something so simple yet extraordinarily comforting. Whenever I’m in the kitchen preparing this, I feel like I’m crafting little packages of happiness for my loved ones. It’s a recipe anyone can tackle, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just finding your way around the kitchen.
So, if you’re looking for a way to brighten up your weekend breakfasts or surprise your family with an afternoon treat, give this Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish a try. It’s bound to leave a lasting impression and, who knows, maybe even become a cherished family tradition around your home, just as it has ours.
How to Make King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish
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Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
- ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the melted tablespoon of butter.
- Arrange the sweet rolls in the baking dish. Slice an X into the rolls, cutting about two-thirds down, but don’t go all the way through.
- Mix the melted butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Pour this over the rolls to coat them thoroughly.
- In another bowl, whip the cream cheese until smooth. Blend in the granulated sugar, then incorporate the beaten egg until the mixture is well mixed and creamy.
- Fill each roll with the cream cheese mixture. You can use a piping bag or a plastic bag with a snipped corner. If using a spoon, take care to fill them generously.
- Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, depending on your preference for golden tops.
- Let the baked rolls cool slightly to allow the filling to set, then serve warm and enjoy!
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you don’t have Hawaiian sweet rolls on hand, substitute with similar soft dinner rolls. For those avoiding dairy, try a vegan cream cheese alternative. While freshly grated nutmeg brings warmth, ground allspice or cardamom can offer a unique twist. Experiment with what’s available and what suits your taste!
Serving Suggestions:
These Danish treats are delightful on their own, but why not take them up a notch? Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Savor them alongside your morning coffee or an afternoon tea for a comforting, indulgent snack.
Seasonal Variations:
In the fall, add some pumpkin puree to the cream cheese mix for a seasonal touch. Spring might call for a fresh berry compote topping. Summer loves a tropical twist—perhaps some crushed pineapple in the filling. Adjust to the seasons, and you’ll never tire of these delightful rolls.
Cooking Tips:
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to mix smoothly. If you prefer a sweeter treat, consider dusting a little powdered sugar on top after baking. For an extra caramelized flavor, let the sugar mix set on the rolls for a few minutes before baking. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Storing Suggestion:
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 5 minutes or until heated through, or use a microwave for a quick warm-up.
FAQ
What can I use if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
If you can’t find Hawaiian sweet rolls, you can use other soft dinner rolls. The key is their sweet and fluffy consistency. Try brioche buns or challah rolls for a similar texture and flavor profile.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan-friendly. Use plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese alternatives. Skip the egg or substitute it with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water). Ensure your sweet rolls are also vegan.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just adjust the baking time slightly if the rolls are chilled before baking. It’s a time-saver for busy mornings.
How can I add a fruity flavor to the Danish?
To infuse fruity flavors, consider adding fruit preserves or a spoonful of fruit compote on top of or within the cream cheese filling. Berries, peaches, or even apple slices can complement the creamy tanginess beautifully.
What should I serve these with?
These rolls are versatile and pair well with various beverages. Serve them with coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate for a delightful breakfast or dessert. Consider serving with fresh fruits or a mixed green salad on the side for a balanced meal.
Can I freeze the filled rolls before baking?
You sure can! Assemble the rolls and freeze them, tightly wrapped, for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, and you’ll enjoy freshly-baked roll goodness.
King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter melted, for coating dish
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup butter melted, for filling
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg optional
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and coat a 9x13-inch baking dish evenly with it.
- Arrange the rolls on the buttered dish. Cut an X about two-thirds down the rolls, but don't slice them all the way through.
- In a measuring cup, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Pour this mix generously over the rolls.
- Blend the softened cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the granulated sugar. After it’s smooth, add in the beaten egg and combine until fully incorporated.
- Carefully fill each roll with the cream cheese mixture. Using a piping bag works best, but a zip-top bag with the corner cut can do the trick too. If you're using a spoon, take a little extra time to stuff them good!
- Bake the rolls uncovered in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on how golden you like them. For softer rolls, around 12 minutes is perfect.
- Once done, let them cool for a couple of minutes before digging in; the filling will be very warm.
