If you’re in the mood for a sweet, comforting treat that feels like a warm hug, this Cream Cheese Danish with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Imagine fluffy Hawaiian rolls filled with luscious, creamy cheese filling, kissed by a buttery cinnamon glaze that gives every bite a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you want a delightful breakfast, an indulgent snack, or a crowd-pleasing party treat, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a truly spectacular flavor and texture harmony you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but plays an essential role in making the dish irresistible. From the softness of the Hawaiian rolls to the rich cream cheese filling and the hint of cinnamon-scented sweetness, these components come together effortlessly to create magic in your kitchen.
- Hawaiian rolls: Their natural sweetness and pillowy texture make them the ideal base for this danish.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps meld the cinnamon-sugar topping to the rolls perfectly.
- Brown sugar: Its deep caramel notes complement the cinnamon and soften the sweetness.
- Cinnamon: Provides a warm spice that balances the creamy filling and sugar beautifully.
- Cream cheese: Key to that luscious, tangy filling that makes this danish stand out.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese for that smooth, dreamy texture and flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a subtle aromatic note to the filling.
How to Make Cream Cheese Danish with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures the rolls will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden top. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is a simple trick to keep your danishes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Hollow Out the Rolls
Place your Hawaiian rolls on the baking sheet, then carefully cut a square out of the top of each. Press the cut-out pieces gently back down into the rolls to create a little pocket for the filling. This step is such a satisfying prep move — it’s like creating a cozy little nest for all that creamy goodness.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Butter Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt together the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon just until the sugar dissolves. This warm, fragrant glaze will be brushed over the rolls and inside the pockets, infusing the danish with a hint of spiced sweetness that’s absolutely heavenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While the glaze is melting, combine the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Use an electric hand mixer to beat everything until smooth and creamy. This filling is rich and smooth, setting the stage for that classic danish flavor we all crave.
Step 5: Fill the Rolls
Spoon the cream cheese filling into the hollowed-out centers of the rolls. Don’t be shy with the filling—each roll deserves a generous amount to create that luscious bite you’ll remember long after the last crumb disappears.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the filled rolls for 15 to 18 minutes until they’re golden brown on top and the filling is set. The aroma wafting from your oven during this time is pure joy, testament to the deliciousness about to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Danish with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely powdered snow effect that enhances the visual appeal without overpowering the delicate flavors. For an extra touch, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans provide texture and subtle sweetness.
Side Dishes
This Cream Cheese Danish with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it ideal for breakfast or brunch. Fresh berries or a light fruit salad can balance the richness, adding a refreshing burst of color and flavor to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging the danishes on a rustic wooden board lined with banana leaves for a tropical vibe that complements the Hawaiian rolls’ flavor origins. Serving alongside small bowls of jam or fruit compote invites everyone to customize their danish experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness. Keeping them covered properly helps keep the cream cheese filling soft and the rolls delightfully tender.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked filled rolls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, and then transferring to a sealed bag or container. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few more minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover rolls gently in a 300ºF oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This warms the filling and revives the soft, fluffy texture without drying out the danish. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rolls tough or chewy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of roll instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls provide a unique sweetness and softness, dinner rolls or brioche buns can also work well. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor and texture will vary slightly.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese before mixing?
Yes, softening the cream cheese to room temperature is important for a smooth, lump-free filling. It blends much easier with the sugar and vanilla, giving your danish that creamy texture.
Can I add fruit to the filling?
Definitely! Fresh berries or jam swirled into the cream cheese filling can add a delightful fruity note. Just fold them in gently after mixing the cream cheese base.
How long can I keep these danishes in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these danishes last about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within this timeframe for optimal freshness.
Can I make these danishes vegan or dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like vegan cream cheese or plant-based butter, you can definitely create a dairy-free version. Hawaiian rolls themselves are usually dairy-rich, so look for dairy-free alternatives or make your own roll dough to suit your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Cream Cheese Danish with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe that makes you want to share it with everyone you know. It’s simple to prepare, delightfully sweet and creamy, and warm with just the right touch of cinnamon and vanilla. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning, I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Cream Cheese Danish with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cream Cheese Danish rolls are a delightful treat featuring soft Hawaiian rolls filled with a sweet, creamy mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar glaze and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a breakfast pastry or a sweet snack, these rolls combine rich flavors and a tender texture in just under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread and Topping
- 1 (12-oz) package Hawaiian rolls
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Cream Cheese Filling
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 3 Tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ready it for baking the Danish rolls.
- Prepare the rolls: Arrange the Hawaiian rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Carefully cut a square out of the top center of each roll and press the cut-out bread square down into the hollowed center to make space for the filling.
- Make the cinnamon butter glaze: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook gently until the sugar dissolves completely, then brush this warm glaze generously over the tops and into the holes of the rolls.
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a large bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric hand mixer, beat the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Fill the rolls: Spoon the prepared cream cheese mixture into the hollow centers of each roll, filling them generously.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the filled rolls for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rolls turn a golden brown and the cream cheese filling is set but still soft.
Notes
- For easier spreading and mixing, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before starting.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the roll tops carefully to avoid tearing.
- To enhance the glaze, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving to let the filling firm up a bit.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days.
