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The perfect blend of sweet Hawaiian bread and creamy cheesecake filling makes these danishes an irresistible treat. What started as a creative way to use King's Hawaiian rolls has become a beloved breakfast favorite that combines the best of both worlds - soft, pillowy bread and rich, smooth cheesecake.
I discovered this recipe during a brunch gathering when I wanted something special but didn't have time for traditional pastries. The moment that cream cheese filling hit the warm, buttery rolls, I knew I'd found something magical.
Essential Ingredients Selection
- King's Hawaiian rolls: Must be fresh for best results.
- Cream cheese: Full-fat, room temperature is crucial.
- Vanilla extract: Pure, not imitation, for best flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted gives better control over sweetness.
- Fresh eggs: Room temperature for smoother filling.
Detailed Preparation Steps
- Perfect the pockets:
- Use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Keep bottom intact for a stable base. Create a deep enough pocket for filling.
- Master the filling:
- Beat cream cheese until completely smooth. Add sugar gradually to prevent lumps. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Fill with precision:
- Use a piping bag for neat presentation. Fill from back to front of the pocket. Don't overfill or they'll burst while baking.
- Finish with care:
- Brush butter evenly on tops. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar generously. Dust powdered sugar just before serving.
The Art of Timing
Learning to gauge when these are perfectly baked took practice - the rolls should be golden but not too dark, and the filling just set.
Creating Perfect Presentation
A light dusting of powdered sugar transforms these from delicious to stunning.
My daughter says weekend mornings aren't complete without these danishes now. The way her face lights up when she smells them baking makes them even more special.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Score tops lightly before filling for prettier results.
- Keep edges clean when filling for a neater appearance.
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking.
This recipe has become my signature brunch dish. There's something magical about watching people take their first bite - the way the creamy filling complements the soft, sweet bread creates a moment of pure joy that makes all the effort worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Best served fresh, but you can prep the filling a day ahead and assemble just before baking.
- → Can I freeze these danishes?
- Not recommended as the texture of the rolls and filling may change when thawed.
- → Can I add fruit topping?
- Yes! Add a spoonful of pie filling or fresh fruit before baking.
- → How should I store leftovers?
- Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for 2-3 days.
- → Can I use regular dinner rolls?
- Hawaiian rolls work best for their sweetness, but other soft dinner rolls will work too.