Introduction

If you're looking to impress your guests or just want a delightful treat for a weekend brunch, the King Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish might be the perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Combining the softness of King Hawaiian bread with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, it offers a taste experience that is both comforting and elegant.

This recipe elevates traditional danishes by using sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls as a pastry base—an innovative twist that adds a unique depth of flavor. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these danishes are sure to be a hit, providing a delicious balance between sweetness and creaminess.

Ingredients

12 King Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
These rolls serve as the base of our cheesecake danish, contributing a sweet, airy texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich filling.
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese is essential for achieving that smooth and rich cheesecake texture, providing a luscious mouthfeel that enhances each bite.
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens the filling and helps to balance the overall flavor, ensuring the danish is a delightfully sweet treat.
1 large egg
The egg acts as a binder in the filling, helping it set perfectly during baking and adding richness to the flavor profile.
1 tsp vanilla extract
Vanilla extract adds depth and warmth to the flavor, elevating the overall taste of the cheesecake filling.
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Cinnamon infuses a warm, aromatic quality that complements the sweetness of the rolls and enhances the overall flavor experience.
Powdered sugar for dusting
A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds a decorative touch and an extra hint of sweetness, making the danishes visually appealing.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that the danishes bake evenly throughout. Starting with a properly heated oven is crucial for achieving a golden brown exterior while keeping the filling creamy.

Step 2: Prepare the baking dish with non-stick spray.

Greasing the dish helps prevent the danishes from sticking and ensures they come out easily after baking. This step is crucial for maintaining the integrity of each danish.

Step 3: Cut the King Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.

This creates the perfect pocket for filling. The fluffy, sweet rolls will act as a delightful vessel for the creamy cheesecake filling, keeping the structure intact once baked.

Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar.

Mixing these two ingredients together creates a smooth and consistent base. This step is significant because it ensures the sugar fully dissolves into the cream cheese, preventing a gritty texture.

Step 5: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture.

Incorporating these ingredients adds flavor and binds the filling together. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the desired creamy texture while enriching the taste.

Step 6: Mix the filling until smooth and well combined.

Ensuring the mixture is free of lumps is key to the final texture. A uniform filling will create an enjoyable cheesecake experience within the flaky pastry.

Step 7: Spoon the filling generously onto the cut side of each roll.

Filling the rolls adequately ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Don't skimp on the filling; it’s the heart of the danish!

Step 8: Place the filled rolls in the prepared baking dish.

Arranging the rolls snugly in the baking dish prevents them from spreading too much while baking. This helps retain their shape and ensures an evenly baked danish.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.

Baking until golden brown improves the flavor through caramelization. Monitor the danishes closely towards the end to avoid over-baking, which can dry them out.

Step 10: Let the danishes cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

Allowing them to cool slightly helps set the filling while making them safe to handle. The finishing touch of powdered sugar adds sweetness and visual appeal.

King Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish step photo

Transforming Sweet Rolls into a Dessert Delight

This recipe reimagines the everyday King Hawaiian rolls by transforming them into a decadent dessert. The contrast between the soft, pillowy bread and the rich creamy cheesecake filling creates an irresistible combination. It showcases how simple ingredients can be elevated into something remarkable with just a bit of creativity in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The King Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is versatile enough to impress guests at brunch or serve as a comforting dessert at family gatherings. The sweet aroma wafting through your home as they bake sets the stage for delightful conversations over coffee or tea. Their delightful presentation and taste make them a fantastic choice for any festive occasion.

Elevate Your Baking Skills

Baking these danishes is not only a treat for your taste buds but also an excellent opportunity to enhance your baking skills. The process of creating a smooth cheesecake mixture and working with dough can build your confidence in the kitchen. Plus, mastering this simple yet delicious recipe opens the door to experimenting with other flavors and fillings.

FAQs

What can I do if my cheesecake filling is too thick?

If your filling turns out too thick, try adding a splash of milk or cream while mixing to achieve a smoother consistency before spreading it onto the rolls.

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

While King Hawaiian rolls provide sweetness and softness, you can experiment with other soft dinner rolls or brioche, adjusting the sweetness as necessary.

What if my danishes are overcooked?

If the danishes are overcooked, they may become dry. To salvage them, serve with a drizzle of cream or honey to add moisture back to each bite.

How should I adjust the recipe for different fillings?

If you’d like to change the filling, consider adding pureed fruit, chocolate, or nuts. Adjust the sugar in the filling to ensure they remain balanced and delicious.

What type of pan is best for baking these danishes?

A glass or ceramic baking dish works particularly well as it heats evenly, allowing for a consistent bake. A metal pan can also be used, but watch the baking time.

How can I make the danishes more visually appealing?

Incorporating some fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate over the top after dusting with powdered sugar can significantly elevate the visual appeal of your danishes.

Conclusion

Creating King Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes is a rewarding endeavor that brings a taste of paradise to your home. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can craft a treat that is both delightful to savor and beautiful to behold.

Whether you indulge in them yourself or share with loved ones, these danishes are sure to leave a lasting impression. So roll up your sleeves, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the process of bringing this scrumptious recipe to life.

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