The smell of lemon cheesecake crescent rolls baking in my kitchen reminds me of sunny days with my grandmother. These treats mix tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake in flaky dough. They’re my favorite comfort food, and I’m excited to share this easy recipe with you.
Imagine a warm, golden crescent roll filled with lemon cream cheese. These rolls are more than a treat; they’re a soul hug. This recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners, bringing joy and smiles to everyone.
These rolls are quick to make, ready in just 25 minutes. You’ll get eight delicious rolls perfect for any meal. The beauty of these rolls is their simplicity and versatility. Let’s make a dessert that will become a family favorite together.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
Lemon cheesecake crescent rolls are a delightful treat. They mix the flaky texture of crescent rolls with a creamy, tangy filling. This dessert is perfect for those who love Philadelphia cheesecake crescent rolls but want a zesty twist.
What Makes These Rolls Special
Crescent roll cheesecake is special because of its mix of textures and flavors. The buttery, flaky outside meets the smooth, creamy inside. The lemon adds a refreshing kick, making these rolls different from traditional cheesecakes.
A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Tangy
The magic of lemon curd cheesecake crescent rolls is their flavor balance. The cream cheese filling’s sweetness is balanced by the tartness of lemon juice and zest. This mix is both indulgent and refreshing.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Making these rolls is quick and easy. They take just 10-15 minutes to prepare before baking. They’re great for last-minute gatherings or a quick dessert fix. The recipe uses common ingredients like crescent roll dough and cream cheese, making it easy for all bakers.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 2 blocks (8 oz. each) |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Crescent Roll Dough | 2 tubes |
With these simple ingredients and a short prep time, you can make a dessert that will impress. You’ll get 12-16 delicious lemon cheesecake crescent rolls, ready to enjoy.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
To make the perfect crescent roll lemon cream cheese dessert, picking the right ingredients is key. Let’s look at the main parts that make these cheesecake filled crescent rolls a tasty treat.
Crescent Roll Dough Selection
Begin with top-notch refrigerated crescent roll dough. This dough gives your rolls a crispy, flaky outside. It’s a great contrast to the creamy inside.
Cream Cheese Filling Components
The core of these lemon blueberry cheesecake crescent rolls is the cream cheese filling. You’ll need:
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Lemon Flavoring Options
For that tangy taste, add:
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best taste. But, lemon extract can add a stronger flavor.
Glaze Ingredients
To top off your dessert, make a simple glaze with:
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp milk
With these ingredients, you can make 24 servings of delicious cheesecake filled crescent rolls in just 25 minutes. Each serving has 73 calories. This is less than traditional desserts like lemon sour cream pound cake (658 calories per slice).
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Ready to make some tasty crescent roll lemon danish? Let’s get started on this easy recipe. You’ll soon have sweet and tangy philadelphia lemon cheesecake crescent rolls ready to eat.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat is perfect for baking your crescent rolls. While waiting, get your ingredients ready and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish. Grease the dish with unsalted butter or non-stick spray to avoid sticking.
Then, open two 8-ounce cans of crescent roll dough. Roll out one can to fit the bottom of your dish. In a bowl, mix 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Spread this over the dough.
For the lemon flavor, zest and juice a fresh lemon into the cream cheese mix. This adds a bright, tangy taste to your no bake lemon cheesecake crescent rolls. Spread the lemony cream cheese evenly over the first layer of dough.
Next, roll out the second can of crescent dough and place it on top of the cream cheese layer. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this over the top layer of dough for a sweet, spicy finish.
Bake your crescent roll lemon danish for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool before slicing and serving. These treats are great warm or chilled, perfect for any time.
Creating the Perfect Cream Cheese Filling
The cream cheese filling is the heart of your lemon cheesecake crescent rolls with cream cheese. Let’s dive into the techniques to create the best lemon cheesecake crescent rolls you’ve ever tasted.
Mixing Techniques
Start with 8 oz (227 grams) of room temperature cream cheese. Beat it until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. Gradually add ½ cup (100 grams) of granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. This creates a smooth base for your easy lemon cheesecake crescent rolls.
Achieving the Right Consistency
The perfect consistency is key for spreadable, delicious filling. If your mixture is too thick, add a bit more lemon juice. If it’s too thin, incorporate more cream cheese. The goal is a smooth, spreadable texture that won’t run off the crescent dough.
Adding Lemon Flavoring
For the best lemon cheesecake crescent rolls, add 1 tbsp (15 mL) of lemon zest to your mixture. This packs a punch of flavor. Follow with lemon juice, tasting as you go to achieve your desired level of tanginess. Finish with 1 tsp (5 mL) of vanilla extract to round out the flavors.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz (227 g) | Base of filling |
| Granulated Sugar | ½ cup (100 g) | Sweetness |
| Lemon Zest | 1 tbsp (15 mL) | Intense lemon flavor |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp (5 mL) | Flavor enhancer |
With these techniques, you’re on your way to creating the perfect filling for your lemon cheesecake crescent rolls. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to adjust to your taste preferences.
Rolling and Shaping Techniques
Learning to roll and shape is essential for making delicious lemon cheesecake crescent rolls. Begin by spreading out your flaky crescent dough on a clean, lightly floured area. It should form a 9″x16″ rectangle. Then, separate the pre-cut triangles, each about 0.7″x16″.
To add the cream cheese filling, use a small spatula or the back of a spoon. Spread a thin layer over the wide end of each triangle, leaving a quarter-inch border. This keeps the filling from oozing out during baking. Use about 350g (12oz) of cream cheese, 100g of sugar, and 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice for the filling.
Start rolling from the wide end towards the pointed tip. Roll tightly and evenly, using a gentle but firm touch. This method keeps the filling inside and creates the classic crescent shape. You can also shape them into pinwheels or braids for a unique look.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 cups (360g) |
| Salt | 1 1/4 teaspoons (8g) |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Granulated Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Instant Yeast | 2 teaspoons |
Let your rolls rest for 3 to 4 hours after shaping. This time allows the dough to rise and develop flavor. Before baking, brush them with an egg wash made from 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water. Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown.
Baking Tips and Temperature Guidelines
Getting your lemon dessert rolls just right takes some finesse. Let’s dive into the important details for making these sweet breakfast treats irresistible.
Optimal Baking Temperature
Heat your oven to 325°F (163°C) for the best results. This temperature helps bake evenly and keeps the cream cheese filling from getting too hot. Use parchment paper on a baking sheet for even browning and easy cleanup.
Timing and Doneness Indicators
Bake your lemon cheesecake crescent rolls for about 15 minutes. Start checking them at the 12-minute mark because oven temperatures can differ. Look for golden-brown tops and edges. The filling should be set but a bit jiggly in the middle.
Cooling Process
Let your rolls cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set more. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures your lemon zest glaze sticks well to the rolls.
| Baking Step | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 325°F (163°C) |
| Baking Time | 15 minutes |
| Initial Cooling | 5 minutes on baking sheet |
| Final Cooling | On wire rack until completely cool |
By sticking to these tips, you’ll make perfectly baked lemon cheesecake crescent rolls every time. They’ll have a crispy outside and a creamy inside, delighting everyone who tries them.
Lemon Glaze Preparation and Application
The lemon glaze is the crowning touch that makes your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls irresistible. It adds a burst of tangy sweetness. This step takes your crescent roll hacks to the next level.
Creating the Perfect Consistency
To get the perfect glaze, start by sifting 1 cup (120g) of confectioners’ sugar. This removes lumps. Then, mix in 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) of fresh lemon juice slowly, until smooth.
The glaze should coat the back of a spoon and drip off slowly. If it’s too thick, add more juice a few drops at a time. If it’s too thin, sprinkle in more sugar.
Glazing Techniques
Wait until your rolls have cooled for about 5 minutes before glazing. They should be warm but not hot. You can glaze your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in several ways:
- Drizzle with a spoon for a rustic look
- Use a piping bag for precise lines
- Dip the tops directly into the glaze for full coverage
Apply the glaze while the rolls are slightly warm. This allows it to set perfectly as they cool. This final touch completes your delightful crescent roll creation, ready to be enjoyed!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Lemon cheesecake crescent rolls are perfect for easy baking. They can be enjoyed fresh or saved for later. Their flavor and texture stay great.
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your lemon cheesecake crescent rolls fresh, follow these tips:
- Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation
- Place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months for extended shelf life
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your lemon cheesecake crescent rolls to enjoy them again:
- Oven: Heat at 300°F for 5 minutes
- Toaster oven: Warm briefly until desired temperature
- Avoid microwaving to maintain texture
Serving Temperature Recommendations
Serve your lemon cheesecake crescent rolls slightly warm. This brings out the lemon and cream cheese flavors. Add fresh berries and whipped cream for a special touch.
| Serving Occasion | Temperature | Pairing Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Warm | Fresh fruit |
| Brunch | Room temperature | Coffee or tea |
| Dessert | Slightly warm | Whipped cream |
These sweet pastries are great for any time of day. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet dessert. Lemon cheesecake crescent rolls are a hit in easy baking recipes.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making my own lemon filling?
How can I make these Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls ahead of time?
Can I freeze Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls?
What’s the best way to reheat these rolls?
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling?
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
Can I make these rolls without lemon for a plain cheesecake version?
What’s the best way to zest a lemon for this recipe?
Can I add other fruits to these crescent rolls?
How do I know when the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are done baking?
Conclusion
You’ve learned how to make lemon cheesecake crescent rolls. This easy recipe is a hit. It combines tangy lemon and creamy cheesecake in flaky dough.
Remember, baking is fun and creative. Feel free to try new things with these rolls. Add your own twist for a special touch. They’re perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast.
Now, you’re ready to bake these rolls and fill your kitchen with their amazing smell. This recipe is great for any time. So, preheat your oven and enjoy these delicious pastries. Your taste buds will love you for it!