Introduction
King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is a rich and indulgent pastry that combines the soft, slightly sweet texture of Hawaiian sweet rolls with a luscious cream cheese filling. This delightful dessert offers the perfect balance of buttery bread, creamy cheesecake, and a sweet glaze, making it an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or special occasions. Restaurants
Origin
This recipe is inspired by the famous Hawaiian sweet rolls created by the bakery now known as King’s Hawaiian. Home bakers and dessert enthusiasts began transforming these sweet rolls into creative desserts, including cheesecake-inspired danishes. The result is a convenient and delicious fusion of classic Danish pastry flavors and American cheesecake traditions. Cheesecakes
Danish pastries have long been associated with European baking traditions, while cheesecake remains one of the most beloved desserts in North America. Combining these influences with Hawaiian sweet bread creates a modern fusion dessert that reflects contemporary home baking trends. It is especially popular for holiday gatherings, family brunches, potlucks, and celebrations.
Danishes
Ingredients
For the Danish
1 package King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12 rolls)
Baked Goods
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dairy & Eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
Cheese
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
Fresh strawberries or blueberries
Lemon zest
Restaurants
Raspberry preserves
Cinnamon sugar
Chopped pecans or walnuts
White chocolate drizzle
Cheesecakes
Toasted coconut flakes
Tips for Success
Allow the cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing.
Avoid overmixing the filling to maintain a smooth texture. Danishes
Create deep wells in the rolls to hold the cheesecake filling securely.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Let the danish cool slightly before glazing.
Food
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Place the Hawaiian rolls in the baking dish, keeping them connected. Press the center of each roll gently to create a small indentation.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together:
Cream cheese
Milk
Granulated sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Fill the Rolls
Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly into each indentation. Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are lightly golden.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
Dairy & Eggs
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Allow the danish to cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle generously with glaze before serving.
Description
King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish features pillowy-soft sweet rolls filled with velvety cheesecake custard. The exterior becomes lightly golden while the center remains creamy and rich. Every bite delivers notes of vanilla, butter, and sweet cream cheese, complemented by a delicate sugary glaze.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (1 Danish)
Calories: 290
Cheese
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg
Sodium: 190 mg
Sugar: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
Cheesecakes
Conclusion
King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is a simple yet impressive treat that transforms ordinary sweet rolls into a bakery-style dessert. Its creamy cheesecake filling, soft texture, and sweet glaze make it a crowd-pleasing favorite suitable for both casual mornings and festive occasions.