King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

Warm, fluffy, and filled with creamy sweetness, King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is a mouthwatering fusion of soft Hawaiian rolls and rich cheesecake filling. This easy-to-make dessert (or indulgent breakfast) combines the pillowy sweetness of King’s Hawaiian bread with the tang of cream cheese, resulting in an irresistible danish-style treat that feels both decadent and comforting. It’s a twist on classic cheesecake danishes but simplified using store-bought rolls that cut down on prep time while delivering outstanding flavor and texture.

Perfect for weekend brunches, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results without any complicated steps. The sweet rolls act as a base, holding a luscious cheesecake mixture flavored with vanilla and a hint of egg yolk for richness. A quick glaze of powdered sugar and milk finishes them off with a glossy, sweet touch that takes them over the top. Whether you’re entertaining or simply treating yourself, this danish recipe is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to grab a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy – Uses pre-made Hawaiian rolls to save time and effort.
2. Sweet and Tangy Flavor – Cream cheese and vanilla give it classic cheesecake richness.
3. Perfect for Brunch or Dessert – A crowd-pleaser for any time of day.
4. No Special Equipment Needed – All you need is a baking dish and a mixing bowl.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepped in advance and glazed before serving.

Ingredients

• King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
• Cream cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Egg yolk
• Powdered sugar
• Milk

Variations

• Berry Swirl: Add a spoonful of fruit preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry) in the center before baking.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the rolls before baking for extra warmth and flavor.
• Nutty Topping: Add chopped pecans or almonds on top of the glaze for a crunch.
• Lemon Zest: Stir in lemon zest to the filling or glaze for a citrusy twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of or in addition to glaze.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the King’s Hawaiian rolls in a baking dish, keeping them attached for easier handling.

Step 2: Prepare Cheesecake Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Hollow and Fill Rolls

Gently press or scoop a small indentation into the center of each roll without cutting all the way through. Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture into each cavity.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the filling is set.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

Let the danishes cool slightly, then drizzle with the glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
• Don’t overfill each roll to prevent spillage during baking.
• Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for neat filling.
• Let the danishes cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting too much.
• Customize glaze thickness by adjusting milk quantity.

How to Serve

Serve warm with coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch. They also make a fantastic addition to dessert platters or holiday spreads. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or a sprig of mint for presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze unglazed danishes wrapped in foil and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Add glaze after reheating if frozen.

FAQs

1. Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, flavored cream cheese like strawberry or honey works well.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate unbaked danishes overnight, then bake and glaze the next day.

3. Do I have to use King’s Hawaiian brand?

Any soft, sweet dinner rolls will work, but King’s Hawaiian gives the best flavor and texture.

4. Can I use a whole egg instead of just the yolk?

You can, but the yolk makes the filling creamier and richer.

5. What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?

Blend granulated sugar in a high-speed blender to make your own powdered sugar substitute.

6. Can I add fruit to the filling?

Yes, small pieces of fruit or fruit preserves can be added before baking.

7. How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?

Make sure the cream cheese filling is not too runny and avoid overfilling.

8. Can these be served cold?

They taste best warm, but they’re still delicious at room temperature or chilled.

9. Is there a low-sugar version?

Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia in both the filling and glaze.

10. How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free rolls if available and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is the perfect blend of soft, sweet bread and creamy cheesecake filling in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re whipping them up for brunch, dessert, or a festive gathering, these danishes deliver comfort and elegance with minimal effort. With their warm, gooey centers and sweet vanilla glaze, they’re a delightful treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Try this easy recipe once, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

Print