King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

Ingredients:

1 package of King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12 count)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg yolk
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (1 1/2 tablespoons sugar mixed with 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Carefully slice each King’s Hawaiian Sweet Roll in half, ensuring not to cut all the way through, to create a pocket for the filling.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth and thoroughly mixed.
Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into the pocket of each sweet roll, ensuring even distribution.
Place the filled rolls onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart.
Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter, then sprinkle them evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture for a delightful flavor.
Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the filling is set.
Once baked, allow the danishes to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter.
Before serving, dust the danishes with powdered sugar to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Indulge in these warm King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes, savoring the delightful combination of soft, fluffy brioche rolls and creamy cheesecake filling.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per Danish
Servings: 12 Danishes

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serve Warm: These King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The gooey, melted cream cheese filling paired with the soft, golden-brown rolls is a delightful combination that is sure to please your taste buds.
Garnish with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, dust the danishes with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. This adds a hint of elegance to your dish and enhances its visual appeal.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: These danishes make for a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The creamy cheesecake filling and the subtle sweetness of the rolls complement the rich flavors of your favorite hot beverage.
Store Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for a few days, although they are best enjoyed fresh. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freeze for Later: These danishes can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be reheated from frozen in the oven or microwave whenever you crave a delicious treat.
Customize with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings by adding sliced fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing twist. You can also drizzle them with chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
Variations:
Fruit Swirl: Add a fruity twist to your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes by incorporating fruit preserves or fresh fruit into the cream cheese filling. Simply swirl in your favorite jam or preserves before spooning it into the sweet roll pockets. Alternatively, top each danish with fresh berries or sliced fruit before baking for a burst of flavor and vibrant color.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: For chocolate enthusiasts, consider adding chocolate chips or chunks to the cream cheese mixture for a decadent touch. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the baked danishes before serving for an extra indulgent treat.
Nutty Crunch: Enhance the texture of your danishes by sprinkling chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, over the cream cheese filling before baking. The nutty crunch adds a delightful contrast to the soft rolls and creamy filling.

Citrus Zest: Infuse your danishes with bright citrus flavors by adding lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese mixture. The citrus zest adds a refreshing aroma and tangy taste that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
Savory Spin: Experiment with savory variations by incorporating ingredients like cooked bacon bits, shredded cheese, or chopped herbs, such as chives or parsley, into the cream cheese filling. These savory additions create a unique twist on the classic sweet danish, perfect for those who prefer a savory flavor profile.

Almond Glaze: Elevate the presentation of your danishes by drizzling them with a simple almond glaze made with powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk. The almond glaze adds a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling.
By exploring these creative variations, you can customize your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes to suit your taste preferences and experiment with new flavor combinations. Whether you opt for a fruity, chocolatey, nutty, or savory twist, these versatile danishes are sure to delight your senses and leave you craving more.

FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread instead of King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls?
While King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls provide a unique flavor and texture, you can experiment with other bread varieties. However, keep in mind that the sweetness and softness of the rolls contribute to the overall taste and consistency of the danishes.

Can I make these danishes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling and assemble the danishes ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to bake them fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the baked danishes?

Yes, you can freeze the baked danishes for future enjoyment. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese as a substitute for the traditional cream cheese in this recipe. Just ensure that it has a similar texture and flavor to achieve the desired creamy filling for the danishes.
How long do these danishes stay fresh?
These danishes are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked. However, if stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.

Can I customize the filling with different flavors?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the cream cheese filling with additional flavors such as extracts (almond, lemon, etc.), spices (nutmeg, pumpkin spice, etc.), or even flavored syrups to suit your preferences.
With just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of irresistible King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether enjoyed as a luxurious breakfast treat or a sumptuous dessert, these danishes are guaranteed to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure to experience the divine flavors of these heavenly delights.