King's Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

This brilliant breakfast hack transforms ordinary Hawaiian sweet rolls into decadent cream cheese danishes with minimal effort. The soft, pillowy rolls become vessels for creamy cheesecake filling, while a buttery cinnamon sugar coating creates that classic danish experience without any of the fussy pastry work.

I first made these for a last minute brunch gathering when I had no time to bake from scratch. My guests thought I had spent hours in the kitchen, and now these danishes are requested at every family breakfast event.

Ingredients

• 12 pack Kings Hawaiian sweet rolls these pillowy soft rolls provide the perfect slightly sweet base for our danish
• 8 ounces cream cheese use full fat cream cheese at room temperature for the creamiest filling
• 1/3 cup melted butter creates that golden exterior and rich flavor throughout
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar adds caramel notes that regular sugar cant match
• 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon provides that classic danish spice flavor
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar perfectly sweetens the cream cheese without making it too dessertlike
• 1 large egg gives the filling structure and richness
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg adds subtle warmth and complexity
• 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the pan to prevent sticking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Melt 1 tablespoon butter and spread evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This creates a nonstick surface and adds an extra layer of buttery flavor to the bottom of each roll.

Cut the Rolls

Place all 12 Hawaiian rolls in the buttered baking dish. Using a sharp knife, cut an X shape into the top of each roll, cutting about two thirds of the way down without slicing through the bottom. This creates the perfect pocket for holding our cheesecake filling while keeping everything intact.

Apply the Butter Mixture

Combine 1/3 cup melted butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well blended. Pour this aromatic mixture evenly over all the rolls, allowing it to seep into the cuts and coat the tops. The rolls will absorb this flavored butter as they bake, infusing every bite with sweet cinnamon goodness.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, stir room temperature cream cheese until completely smooth. Add granulated sugar and mix until incorporated, then blend in the beaten egg. The mixture should be smooth and pourable but not too thin. The room temperature cream cheese is crucial for avoiding lumps.

Fill the Rolls

Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large tip, or use a zip top bag with a corner snipped off. Carefully pipe the filling into the X cuts in each roll, working the tip slightly into the opening to ensure filling gets inside rather than just sitting on top. The rolls should be generously filled but not overflowing.

Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes. The rolls are done when the tops are golden brown and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. For softer rolls, aim for 12 minutes. For a slightly crispier exterior, bake the full 15 minutes.

Bookmark

The freshly grated nutmeg makes an enormous difference in this recipe. I once made these with pre ground nutmeg from the back of my spice cabinet and while still good, they lacked that special warm fragrance that makes everyone ask for the recipe. Fresh nutmeg is worth the extra 30 seconds of effort.

Make Ahead Options

These danishes can be completely assembled the night before serving. Simply prepare through the filling step, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from the refrigerator while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding 2 3 minutes to the bake time since youre starting with cold ingredients.

Flavor Variations

While the classic cream cheese filling is always a hit, you can easily customize these danishes with different flavor profiles. Try adding 1 2 tablespoons of strawberry jam or lemon curd to the cream cheese mixture before filling the rolls. For chocolate lovers, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cream cheese filling before baking. Orange zest and a touch of almond extract in the filling creates a sophisticated twist on the original.

Serving Suggestions

These danishes are best served warm about 5 minutes after removing from the oven. The filling will be hot directly from the oven, so this brief cooling period makes them more enjoyable to eat. Pair with fresh berries and coffee for a complete breakfast experience. For an extra special touch, drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze made from 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon milk.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I make these Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these danishes ahead of time. Assemble everything, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. You can also bake them completely, refrigerate, and reheat in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for Hawaiian sweet rolls?

While Hawaiian sweet rolls provide the ideal flavor and texture, you can substitute with brioche rolls, regular dinner rolls, or even croissants. The texture and flavor will vary slightly, but the concept works with most soft bread products.

→ How do I know when the danishes are fully baked?

The danishes are done when they're golden brown on top and the internal temperature reaches 145°F for at least 15 seconds (you can check with an instant-read thermometer). The cream cheese filling should be set but still slightly soft. For softer rolls, bake for about 12 minutes; for more golden and crusty rolls, bake for 15 minutes.

→ Can I add fruit to these danishes?

Absolutely! You can add a small dollop (about 1/2 teaspoon) of fruit preserves, pie filling, or fresh berries on top of the cream cheese mixture before baking. Strawberry, blueberry, or cherry preserves work particularly well with the cheesecake flavor.

→ What's the best way to store leftover danishes?

Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

→ Can I freeze these Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes?

Yes, these danishes freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 325°F oven for 7-10 minutes until warmed through.