King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe

This King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is what dessert dreams are made of—pillowy-soft Hawaiian rolls, a luscious creamy cheesecake center, and a golden, buttery cinnamon-sugar topping that will make your kitchen smell like a bakery. It’s the kind of recipe that somehow feels both nostalgic and wildly new, and best of all, it comes together with surprising ease. Whether you’re serving brunch for friends or craving an after-dinner treat, this irresistible treat shines at any table, and it’s nearly impossible to stop at just one piece!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, coming together for the most satisfying bite. You probably have most of these in your pantry already, and each one adds its own touch of sweetness, richness, or comforting flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make the magic happen:

• Butter: Both for brushing and for mixing, butter adds a rich silkiness and helps brown the rolls to golden perfection.
• King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: The real secret to that signature flavor and softness—these act as the perfect base for your danish.
• Brown Sugar: Adds warmth and a hint of molasses to balance the cinnamon.
• Ground Cinnamon: That cozy bakery aroma and flavor comes from this spice staple.
• Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch wakes up the flavors—freshly grated is best if you have it.
• Cream Cheese: The heart of that dreamy filling, making every bite smooth and tangy.
• Large Egg: Helps bind the cream cheese filling so it’s perfectly set, not runny.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the fill, complementing the tang from the cream cheese and the fluffy rolls.

How to Make King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan (a 9×13-inch works well) with parchment paper or a light mist of cooking spray. This tiny step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish lifts out easily for cutting and serving.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Keep the 12-pack of Hawaiian rolls together and slice them horizontally to create a top and bottom slab—just like splitting a giant hamburger bun. Place the bottom half, cut side up, into your prepared pan. This creates the perfect soft “crust” for your creamy filling.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and beaten egg until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and a little glossy. This luscious cream cheese filling is what makes your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish so decadent. Be sure to mix thoroughly so there are no lumps!

Step 4: Layer and Assemble

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the base layer of rolls, making sure to reach all the way to the edges. Carefully place the top half of the rolls back over the filled base. Now your danish is ready for its sweet, buttery crown.

Step 5: Mix and Brush the Cinnamon Butter Topping

Combine 1/3 cup melted butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and (if using) nutmeg until velvety and well-blended. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the rolls with this cinnamon-sugar butter mixture. This step is pure magic—the topping caramelizes as it bakes, giving your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish irresistible aroma and color.

Step 6: Bake and Finish

Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, just until the tops are perfectly golden and the cheesecake filling is set but still creamy. Once they’re out of the oven, brush the tops with the reserved tablespoon of melted butter for that extra bakery-style shine and softness. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing—if you can wait!

How to Serve King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

Garnishes

Elevate each slice with a dusting of powdered sugar, a little drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or a few fresh berries on the side. A tiny sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a pinch of lemon zest can make your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Serve your danish with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or a side of creamy Greek yogurt for an indulgent brunch spread. If you’re hosting a special breakfast or shower, a simple bowl of mixed berries or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into an all-seasons crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish into smaller squares or triangles for party platters, brunch buffets, or picnic baskets. You can also top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream or even a bit of lemon curd for an extra pop of brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish keeps beautifully! Simply cover the cooled danish tightly with plastic wrap or place slices in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rolls stay soft, and the cheesecake center remains deliciously creamy.

Freezing

To enjoy later, freeze individual slices (or the whole danish) well wrapped in plastic wrap plus a layer of foil. Store in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish will taste nearly as good as fresh.

Reheating

Warm your Danish in a 300°F oven for about 8–10 minutes or microwave individual pieces for 15–20 seconds until gently heated. Adding a quick brush of melted butter before reheating keeps the tops glossy and soft.

FAQs

Can I use any brand of sweet rolls for King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish?

King’s Hawaiian rolls are famous for their pillowy texture and subtle sweetness, which really shine here. However, you can substitute another soft, sweet roll if needed—just know the flavor and softness might vary slightly.

What can I add to the cheesecake filling?

Feel free to stir in a bit of lemon zest, vanilla extract, or even a spoonful of fruit preserves into the cream cheese mixture for a custom twist. Mini chocolate chips or diced strawberries are also amazing for special occasions!

Does the nutmeg make a big difference?

Just a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg adds warmth and complexity, but the recipe is still fabulous if you choose to leave it out. If you love that classic bakery aroma, try it at least once!

Should I cool before slicing?

It’s best to let your King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish cool for about 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps the cheesecake filling set up for cleaner slices, but if you like it gooey and warm, dig in sooner!

Is this recipe suitable for making ahead?

Yes! You can assemble the danish a few hours ahead and refrigerate (unbaked), then bake just before serving. Or, bake completely and reheat gently as needed—the flavors only get better as they rest.

Final Thoughts

This King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is a slice of buttery, pillowy, joy that truly turns any day into an occasion. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, you’ll find it’s as wonderful to make as it is to eat. Give it a try, and let the magic of simple, irresistible baking fill your home—your taste buds will thank you!

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