Indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with this King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish recipe. Combining the sweetness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with a creamy cheesecake filling and a luscious pineapple glaze, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. The optional toasted coconut flakes add a tropical touch, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Ingredients
For the Danish:
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian Rolls (12 count), sliced in half horizontally
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
For the Pineapple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional:
- Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Assemble the Danish
- Prepare the Rolls:
- Carefully slice the King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottom halves attached to each other.
- Add the Filling:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Place the top halves of the rolls back on top, gently pressing down.
Step 3: Bake the Danish
- Bake:
- Place the assembled rolls on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Pineapple Glaze
- Mix the Glaze:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Finish the Danish
- Drizzle the Glaze:
- Once the Danish has cooled slightly, drizzle the pineapple glaze over the top.
- Optional Garnish:
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra tropical touch.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice and Serve:
- Cut the Danish into individual servings and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Cream Cheese Softening:
- To soften cream cheese quickly, cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
- Pineapple Juice:
- Fresh pineapple juice works best for the glaze, but canned pineapple juice can be used as well.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes:
- To toast coconut flakes, spread them in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of rolls? A: Yes, you can use any sweet rolls or brioche buns if you prefer. King’s Hawaiian Rolls add a unique sweetness that complements the cheesecake filling.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Danish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I add fruit to the filling? A: Absolutely! You can fold in some fresh or canned fruit, such as pineapple chunks or berries, into the cream cheese filling for added flavor and texture.
Q: Is there a substitute for pineapple juice in the glaze? A: If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use lemon juice or orange juice as a substitute for a different but still delicious flavor.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the Danish and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
This King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavors of cheesecake with the sweet, soft texture of King’s Hawaiian Rolls. The pineapple glaze adds a tropical twist, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, a holiday gathering, or just as a special treat, this Danish is sure to impress. Enjoy!