How to Make the Perfect Kings Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish at Home

Ella
Ella
Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by...
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If you’re craving a melt-in-your-mouth pastry that’s equal parts sweet, creamy, and buttery, the Kings Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is your next must-try indulgence. This irresistible treat combines the fluffy, tropical charm of King’s Hawaiian rolls with rich cheesecake filling for a dessert that’s anything but ordinary. Ready to discover why this unique twist on a classic Danish has everyone talking? Keep reading.

This easy brunch recipe blends American sweetness with cozy baked comfort.
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: 1 danish

Description

Imagine biting into a warm, golden danish with the pillowy softness of King’s Hawaiian rolls and the rich, smooth decadence of a cheesecake nestled inside. This King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is a dreamy fusion of bakery-style indulgence and homemade comfort. The buttery sweetness of the rolls pairs perfectly with the tangy, creamy cheesecake filling, creating a bite that is both nostalgic and luxurious. Lightly golden on the outside and lusciously soft in the center, every morsel will make you feel like you are sitting in your favorite café on a Saturday morning.

The delicate scent of vanilla and sugar wafts from the oven as it bakes, promising a dish that is equal parts dessert and breakfast. Topped with a light drizzle of glaze, each danish glistens like a jewel. Whether served at brunch, enjoyed with a cup of coffee, or offered as a sweet after-dinner bite, it is a treat that turns any moment into something memorable. This recipe offers the experience of a pastry shop right from your own kitchen – no dough rolling or pastry weaving required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is as easy as it is satisfying. Thanks to the soft and ready-to-use King’s Hawaiian rolls, there is no kneading or rising time required. With just a few simple pantry staples, you can create a bakery-quality danish in under 30 minutes. It is perfect for those who want to impress guests with a homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen.

The flavor is versatile enough to enjoy as-is or to customize. Add fresh fruit, flavored extracts, or a swirl of jam to elevate it even further. Whether you are hosting a holiday brunch, making a sweet treat for a potluck, or baking just because, this recipe fits right into your life. Plus, it stores well and can even be frozen for future cravings.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish slightly warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If needed, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before refrigerating. You can also freeze the danish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving. This dish can be made a day ahead and stored refrigerated until ready to serve.

Course, Cuisine

Breakfast, American, Cheesecake Danish, King’s Hawaiian, Brunch

Ingredients

  • 1 package King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
  • 1 egg white lightly beaten for brushing

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric hand mixer
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Beat until fully combined and creamy. Be sure your cream cheese is room temperature for a silky texture.
  3. Step 3: Take the entire connected sheet of King’s Hawaiian rolls out of the package. Without separating the individual rolls, carefully slice horizontally all the way through the center to make a top and bottom half, like slicing a large sandwich roll.
  4. Step 4: Place the bottom half on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press the center of each roll down with your fingers or the back of a spoon, creating shallow wells for holding the cheesecake filling.
  5. Step 5: Spoon a generous tablespoon of the cheesecake filling into each well. Try not to overfill to avoid overflow during baking.
  6. Step 6: Gently place the top half of the rolls back on and line them up with the bottoms. Press down slightly to seal, being careful not to squish out the filling.
  7. Step 7: Brush the tops with your lightly beaten egg white. This adds a beautiful glossy, golden finish when baked.
  8. Step 8: Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling feels set when gently tapped.
  9. Step 9: While your danish is baking, combine the powdered sugar and heavy cream or milk in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. You can adjust the amount of liquid for a thinner or thicker glaze depending on your preference.
  10. Step 10: Once the danish is finished baking, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it naturally find its way into all the little crevices. Serve warm for the best experience, though they are still delicious at room temperature.

Nutrition per serving

Calories 320
Protein 25g
Carbohydrates 3g
Fat 22g
Sugar 0g
Fiber 0g
Sodium 580mg

If you want to jazz it up, add a small dollop of raspberry jam or blueberry preserves to the cheesecake filling before baking. It adds a sweet-tart surprise. Be sure to let your cream cheese fully soften to avoid lumps in the filling.

FAQ

Can I use frozen fruit in the filling?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding. Too much moisture can cause the filling to run and affect baking time.

Can I serve this cold?

Absolutely. These danishes taste wonderful chilled straight from the fridge, similar to a cheesecake bar. However, warming them brings out the flavors more vividly.

Is there a substitute for lemon juice?

You can use a few drops of apple cider vinegar or omit it entirely if needed. The lemon adds a bright zip that complements the sweet creaminess, but it is not essential.

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King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

A dreamy fusion of tender King’s Hawaiian rolls and rich, creamy cheesecake filling, these danishes are golden on the outside, luscious on the inside, and finished with a sweet glaze—a bakery-style treat made easy at home.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
  • 1 egg white lightly beaten for brushing

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, egg yolk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
  • Carefully separate the King’s Hawaiian rolls from the package, keeping them together as a connected sheet. Slice horizontally through the center to create a top and bottom half, like a sandwich.
  • Place the bottom half of the rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down the centers of each roll to create a shallow indent.
  • Spoon a heaping tablespoon of cheesecake filling into each indent in the bottom layer.
  • Carefully place the top half of the rolls back over the bottom, aligning them evenly. Gently press down without squishing the filling out.
  • Brush the tops with the beaten egg white for a golden finish.
  • Bake for 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the filling is set.
  • While the danish bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and heavy cream or milk in a small bowl until smooth to make the glaze.
  • Let the danish cool slightly, then drizzle with the glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSodium: 160mgSugar: 17g
Keyword Cheesecake Danish, King’s Hawaiian, Brunch, Easy Dessert, Breakfast Pastry
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Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by home, travel, and the joy of simple ingredients. From cozy comfort food to bold global flavors, YummyHorizon is your place to explore, taste, and create. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started, I'm here to guide you through flavorful journeys- one delicious recipe at a time. Welcome to my kitchen, where every meal opens a new horizon.