Looking for a breakfast treat that feels fancy but takes barely any effort? These Hawaiian Roll Cream Danishes transform simple ingredients into something that tastes bakery-worthy in just 35 minutes. The pillowy softness of King's Hawaiian Sweet Rolls creates the perfect vessel for creamy, vanilla-scented cheese filling, while a touch of cinnamon sugar and butter creates that classic danish flavor without any of the traditional dough-making hassle.
I stumbled upon this clever shortcut when hosting an impromptu brunch after forgetting I'd invited friends over. With no time to run to the bakery, I raided my refrigerator and discovered this magical combination. My guests were convinced I'd been up since dawn preparing these little treasures, and my husband now requests them nearly every weekend as a special treat with our coffee.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 package (12 count) King's Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – These rolls have the perfect tender texture and subtle sweetness that mimics traditional danish dough; store brands can work but may lack the distinctive honey notes
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Full-fat provides the richest flavor and creamiest texture; bring to room temperature for at least an hour for smooth blending
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese without overwhelming sweetness; raw sugar can add a slight caramel note if you prefer
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Pure extract delivers the best flavor; vanilla bean paste creates beautiful flecks throughout the filling for a gourmet touch
- 1 egg yolk – Creates a custardy richness and helps set the filling; reserve the white for brushing rolls if desired for extra shine
- ¼ cup butter, melted – Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness; European-style butter adds extra richness
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar – The perfect warming spice complement to the sweet rolls and tangy filling; freshly ground cinnamon makes a noticeable difference
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1:
- Prepare Your Workspace – Begin by preheating your oven to exactly 350°F, ensuring it reaches full temperature before baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Gather all your ingredients and measuring tools before starting so everything flows smoothly. Set the cream cheese out early, as properly softened cream cheese is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling that will pipe easily into the rolls.
- Step 2:
- Create Perfect Pockets – Take each Hawaiian sweet roll and carefully slice through the top, creating a deep pocket while ensuring you don't cut all the way through the bottom. A serrated knife works best for this task. Hold each roll gently but firmly to maintain its shape while cutting. The ideal pocket should be deep enough to hold a generous amount of filling but structured enough that the roll maintains its integrity during baking. Keep the rolls connected in their original formation for easier handling.
- Step 3:
- Craft The Luscious Filling – In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for exactly two minutes, periodically scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything incorporates evenly. The mixture should become lighter in both color and texture, resembling a smooth custard. Test the consistency by lifting your beater—the filling should slowly drip off in a continuous ribbon when it's perfectly whipped.
- Step 4:
- Fill With Precision – Transfer your cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a medium round tip, or create a makeshift piping bag by snipping the corner off a sturdy zip-top plastic bag. This method offers much more control than spooning. Gently separate each roll slightly to access the pocket more easily. Pipe approximately 1½ tablespoons of filling into each pocket, adjusting the amount based on the size of your pocket. The filling should be generous but not overflowing, as it will expand slightly during baking.
- Step 5:
- Arrange For Even Baking – Place your filled rolls on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them with about an inch of space between each to allow for even heat circulation and slight expansion. If your rolls came connected, you can now fully separate them for baking. For the most attractive presentation, position the filled pocket side facing upward so the cream cheese filling is visible and develops a beautiful golden color during baking.
- Step 6:
- Apply The Aromatic Topping – In a small bowl, combine 1½ tablespoons of sugar with ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, mixing thoroughly to distribute the cinnamon evenly throughout the sugar. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of each filled roll with melted butter, ensuring the entire surface is covered but not soaked. Immediately sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered tops, being careful to cover each roll completely for that classic danish flavor and appealing sparkle.
- Step 7:
- Bake To Golden Perfection – Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Begin checking at the 15-minute mark for signs of doneness: the rolls should be golden brown around the edges and the filling should be set but still slightly soft in the center. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla will fill your kitchen, signaling they're nearly ready. If needed, rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Step 8:
- Finish With Elegance – Remove the danishes from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for precisely 5 minutes. This short resting period allows the filling to set further while ensuring the danishes remain warm for serving. Just before presenting, dust generously with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve held several inches above the danishes for the most even, professional-looking finish. The warmth of the rolls will slightly melt the first layer of sugar, creating an almost glaze-like effect.
I've served these at countless family brunches, and my sister-in-law, who typically avoids sweets, always makes an exception for these danishes. After tasting them at our annual holiday breakfast, she immediately asked for the recipe, convinced they required special pastry skills. When I revealed the Hawaiian roll shortcut, she couldn't believe something so delicious could be so simple to prepare.
Creative Variations
The versatility of this base recipe opens up endless possibilities for customization. For a citrus twist, add the zest of one lemon or orange to the cream cheese filling and a tablespoon of corresponding juice for brightness. During autumn months, incorporating a quarter cup of pumpkin puree with a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice creates a seasonal variation that pairs perfectly with morning coffee. For chocolate lovers, tucking a few semi-sweet chocolate chips into each cream cheese pocket before baking results in a decadent surprise that delights both children and adults.
Make-Ahead Magic
While these danishes shine when freshly baked, busy hosts will appreciate that the components can be prepared in advance. The cream cheese filling can be mixed up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator – just bring it to room temperature before piping for easier handling. The rolls can be sliced and filled the night before baking, then covered and refrigerated. In the morning, simply apply the butter and cinnamon sugar topping before baking, adding perhaps 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled filling.
Perfect Pairings
These sweet treats partner beautifully with beverages that balance their richness. A strong, darkly roasted coffee provides wonderful contrast to the sweet, creamy filling, while a citrus-forward tea like Earl Grey complements the vanilla notes. For special occasions, serve alongside a mimosa bar featuring both traditional orange juice and more unexpected options like pomegranate or grapefruit juice, allowing guests to create their own perfect pairing.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your brunch presentation by arranging these danishes on a tiered serving plate interspersed with fresh berries and mint leaves for pops of color. For a more substantial morning spread, complement these sweet danishes with savory options like a simple egg bake or breakfast potatoes seasoned with herbs. The danishes also make an impressive addition to a breakfast board alongside fresh fruits, yogurt, and granola, creating an interactive dining experience that guests will remember.
My family's Sunday mornings have been transformed by these little bites of joy. What started as a desperate solution to an overlooked brunch invitation has become our treasured weekend tradition. My children now help with the filling and dusting, learning that sometimes the simplest recipes create the most magical memories. There's something special about watching sleepy faces light up when the aroma of these danishes fills our home—proof that sometimes, the best culinary creations come from creative shortcuts rather than complicated techniques. Whether you're hosting a special occasion or simply want to make an ordinary morning extraordinary, these Hawaiian Roll Cream Danishes deliver both charm and satisfaction with remarkable ease.
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.
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