Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore this Danish because it takes the irresistible sweetness and tender texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls and elevates them with a rich cheesecake filling. The contrast of fluffy dough and creamy cheese feels indulgent yet comforting. It’s a treat that looks fancy but is easy enough to bake up anytime I crave something special.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 King’s Hawaiian dinner rolls (preferrably large or jumbo size)
Cheesecake filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 Tbsp milk
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract

directions

I preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I slice each roll in half horizontally—leaving the bottom attached if desired—and gently fluff the interior with my fingers to create space for filling.
I beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
I spoon or pipe about 1–2 Tbsp of filling into the center of each roll, then gently press the top back on or leave it open-faced.
I bake for 15–18 minutes, until the dough is golden and the filling is set.
If I’m using glaze, I whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth, then drizzle it over the slightly cooled Danishes.
I let them cool just enough so the filling holds but they’re warm and perfect to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 12 individual Danish treats
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Bake time: 15–18 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes, including cooling

Variations

I sometimes fold in a spoonful of lemon or orange zest into the filling for fresh citrus notes.
I love adding fruit preserves (blueberry, raspberry, or apricot) on top of the cream cheese before baking.
I occasionally roll out larger King’s dough portions into a crescent shape, fill them, and create individual Danishes for a more classic presentation.
I play with toppings like chopped nuts (pecans or almonds), shredded coconut, or chocolate chips sprinkled before baking.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days—or refrigerated up to 4 days if using dairy-rich filling. To refresh, I warm them for a few minutes in a 300 °F oven or microwave briefly; they taste best served warm.

FAQs

Can I use plain sweet roll dough instead?

Yes—I often substitute plain sweet roll or brioche dough and fill it the same way, and it works beautifully.

Can I make these ahead for a breakfast spread?

Absolutely—I assemble them the night before and bake in the morning for fresh, warm treats.

Is the glaze necessary?

No—but it adds a sweet finishing touch and sheen. They’re great with or without it.

Can I freeze them?

Yes—I freeze baked, cooled Danishes in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight and warm before serving.

What can I serve these with?

They’re wonderful alongside coffee, tea, fresh fruit, or even as part of a brunch spread with eggs and yogurt.

Conclusion

I love how these King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes blend soft, sweet bread with creamy, dreamy filling. They feel upscale enough to impress yet are effortless to make. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a simple indulgence, they bring joy in each warm, melty bite.

King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Mia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 individual Danishes
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This cream cheese Danish recipe uses soft King’s Hawaiian rolls filled with rich cheesecake filling and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze—perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

12 King’s Hawaiian dinner rolls (large or jumbo preferred)

Cheesecake filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg yolk

½ tsp vanilla extract

Optional glaze:

½ cup powdered sugar

1–2 Tbsp milk

¼ tsp vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.

Slice each roll horizontally, leaving bottoms attached if desired. Hollow slightly for filling.

In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth.

Spoon or pipe 1–2 Tbsp of filling into each roll. Top with upper halves or leave open-faced.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and set.

If glazing, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over slightly cooled Danishes.

Serve warm or allow to cool to set filling.

Notes

Add fruit preserves for flavor (raspberry, blueberry, etc.).

Incorporate citrus zest for brightness.

Toppings like chopped nuts or coconut add texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American