Easy Cream Cheese Danish Recipe - skip the bakery and whip up these easy cheese danishes. They are effortless to make and taste great! Hawaiian rolls brushed with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon and filled with cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. These delectable pastries are a delightful addition to breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack any time of day.
Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut a square in the top of each roll and press the bread square down into the roll.
Combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small saucepan. Cook on medium-low heat just until the sugar has dissolved. Brush the melted butter mixture over the rolls and inside the holes.
Add cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix together with an electric hand mixer.
Spoon the cream cheese filling into the rolls.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the rolls are golden brown and the filling is set.
Notes:
Be careful not to cut all the way through the rolls. Do not remove the bread, just press the bread down into the roll.
I use a package of Kings Hawaiian Rolls.
You can leave the rolls together or separate them into individual rolls.
The individual rolls will get a little crisper.
Variations/Additions:
Fold in your favorite fruit: strawberry, apricots, or blueberry.
Add a dollop of your favorite jam to the cheesecake filling before baking.
Add a splash of lemon juice or almond extract to the cream cheese mixture for a pop of flavor.
I top the rolls with some powdered sugar.
Add a drizzle of a quick powdered sugar glaze to put the pastries over the top.
Can I make Easy Cheese Danish ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the rolls ahead of time. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I freeze Cheese Danishes? Yes! Bake the danishes and cool to room temperature. Place the baking sheet in the freezer. Once the rolls are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 4 months.
Thaw and reheat in the microwave.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.