Introduction
Imagine a warm, golden-brown pastry that’s soft on the outside, creamy inside, and perfectly sweet without being overwhelming. That’s exactly what the King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish offers—a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your oven.
It’s a delightful twist on the traditional cheesecake danish, made even more special with King’s Hawaiian® Sweet Rolls. These rolls give a fluffy, buttery texture that complements the creamy cheesecake filling beautifully.
Whether you’re planning a brunch, holiday breakfast, or just want something comforting with your coffee, this recipe is bound to impress.
1. What Makes the King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish So Special
The secret behind the magic lies in the combination of King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls and a creamy cheesecake filling. The rolls are slightly sweet, buttery, and fluffy—almost like a cloud. When baked with a rich cream cheese filling and buttery cinnamon-sugar topping, they transform into a bakery-style treat that’s both indulgent and comforting.
Think of it as the perfect marriage between a cheesecake and a cinnamon roll.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish, here’s what you’ll need:
1 tablespoon butter, melted
12-pack KING’S HAWAIIAN® original sweet rolls
1/3 cup butter, melted
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (omit or reduce if not a fan)
8 ounces cream cheese
1 large egg, beaten
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12
3. Kitchen Tools Required
To make your process smoother, gather these essentials before you begin:
9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Hand mixer or whisk
Piping bag or zip-top bag
Spatula
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to bring this sweet masterpiece to life:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and spread it evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the rolls over the butter. Cut an X into the top of each roll about 2/3 down, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Make the topping: In a measuring cup, stir together the 1/3 cup melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture evenly over the rolls.
Prepare the filling: Stir the cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and mix until creamy. Stir in the beaten egg until fully combined.
Fill the rolls: Use a piping bag (or zip-top bag with a corner snipped off) to pipe the cheesecake filling into each roll’s X. You can also spoon it in if you prefer.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Cool and serve: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
5. Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake Danish
Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye after 12 minutes. Overbaking will make the rolls dry.
Use real butter: It enhances flavor and richness.
Add a drizzle: A little vanilla glaze or honey drizzle can make them even more irresistible.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Cutting too deep: If you slice through the bottom of the roll, the filling will leak out.
Using cold cream cheese: It won’t mix well and will leave clumps.
Skipping the butter layer: That base layer of melted butter prevents sticking and adds flavor.
Overcrowding the pan: Give the rolls a little space so they bake evenly.
7. How to Serve King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish
This dish shines in many situations! Try serving it:
Warm for breakfast with a cup of coffee.
As a dessert topped with whipped cream or powdered sugar.
During holidays or brunch gatherings—it’s a total crowd-pleaser.
Want to make it extra special? Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts before serving.
8. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Warm them in the oven at 325°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds until soft and warm again.
Pro Tip: Wrap each roll in foil before reheating to retain moisture.
9. Variations You Can Try
Why not give your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish a personal twist? Try these creative ideas:
Berry Danish: Add a spoonful of blueberry or strawberry jam in the filling.
Chocolate Delight: Stir in mini chocolate chips with the cheesecake mix.
Nutty Version: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut and pineapple chunks for a Hawaiian vibe.
10. Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With It
Pair your Danish with:
A hot cup of coffee or latte
Fresh orange juice for a bright, refreshing contrast
A side of fresh fruit salad for a lighter option
11. Why King’s Hawaiian Rolls Make All the Difference
These rolls aren’t just any bread—they’re soft, rich, and subtly sweet. Their unique texture holds up beautifully when baked, making them the perfect base for a cheesecake filling.
It’s like using a fluffy pillow to cradle your creamy dream filling—pure comfort in every bite.
12. How to Turn This Into a Crowd-Pleasing Brunch Dish
Hosting a brunch? Double the recipe and bake it in two pans. Add some fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and coffee on the side, and you’ve got a spread that’ll make you the hero of the morning.
You can even prep the rolls the night before and bake them fresh in the morning.
13. Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (1 roll):
Calories: 220
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 12g
14. Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
Make-Ahead: Prepare the rolls with filling the night before. Cover and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as usual.
Freezer Option: Once baked and cooled, wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
15. Final Thoughts
The King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is the kind of recipe that transforms simple ingredients into pure joy. It’s quick, comforting, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Whether it’s a weekend breakfast, special occasion, or just a sweet craving, this dish will never disappoint.
So go ahead—grab that pack of King’s Hawaiian rolls and treat yourself to a little piece of paradise!
FAQs
1. Can I make King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for fresh, warm results.
2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely. It works fine, but the texture will be slightly lighter and less creamy.
3. What if I don’t have a piping bag?
No worries! Use a zip-top bag and cut one corner to create a makeshift piping bag.
4. Can I freeze King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
5. Can I add fruit to the filling?
Definitely! Add fresh or jam-like fruit fillings such as blueberry or cherry for extra flavor.
