Name: King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish: Your Go-To Sweet Breakfast Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 rolls King’s Hawaiian Rolls (Unbaked, 12-count package); 1/4 cup Butter (Melted); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Light brown recommended); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Optional); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Full-fat and softened); 1 large Egg (Room temperature); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (For sweetening filling); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure is preferred); 1 can Cherry Pie Filling (Can substitute with raspberry or apple); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For icing); 2 tablespoons Milk (Adjust for desired icing consistency)

As the aroma of fresh-baked goods wafts through the kitchen, a little part of me feels like a pastry chef in a charming bakery. Today, I’m excited to share my version of the King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish—an easy breakfast recipe that transforms store-bought rolls into gourmet delights. This semi-homemade treat not only saves you precious time but also guarantees a crowd-pleasing result, making it perfect for everything from busy mornings to festive brunches. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy roll filled with creamy sweetness, embellished with a drizzle of icing and perhaps a pop of fruity flavor from cherry pie filling. Are you ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful indulgence? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Try King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?

Deliciously Unique: This recipe combines the irresistible sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls with a creamy cheese filling, making it a standout breakfast choice.

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up these danishes in no time—perfect for busy mornings or surprise guests.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings, such as cherry or apple pie filling, or even add chocolate chips for a decadent twist!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a brunch gathering or a simple family breakfast, this danish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet cravings.

No Hassle Baking: Using store-bought rolls cuts down on kitchen time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones while still delivering a homemade touch.

Tantalize your taste buds, and for more delightful recipes, check out my Hawaiian Roll French Toast for another easy crowd-pleaser!

King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish Ingredients

• For the Danish

King’s Hawaiian Rolls – Use an unbaked, 12-count package for the perfect soft base.
Butter – Melted, it adds richness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor.
Brown Sugar – Light brown is recommended for a hint of molasses flavor.
Cinnamon – Optional spice that enhances flavor; skip if you’re not a fan of spice.
Cream Cheese – Full-fat and softened for a creamy filling that’s easy to blend.
Egg – Important for binding; make sure it’s at room temperature for better incorporation.
Granulated Sugar – White sugar works best for sweetening the cream cheese filling.
Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla is preferred, adding aromatic sweetness to the filling.

• For the Topping

Cherry Pie Filling – Adds a fruity touch; feel free to substitute with raspberry or apple pie filling.
Powdered Sugar – Essential for the sweet icing glaze; mix with milk for your desired consistency.
Milk – Necessary for the icing; adjust quantity based on how thick you want it.

Let your taste buds dance with the delightful blend of flavors in this King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly baked King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Take your unbaked King’s Hawaiian rolls and carefully cut a square from the top of each roll, creating a little cavity for the filling. Make sure not to cut too deep; you want to keep the integrity of the roll while providing enough space for that creamy goodness.

Step 3: Make the Butter Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and optional cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This sweet, buttery mixture will not only add flavor to the rolls but will also create a delightful glaze once baked.

Step 4: Brush the Rolls
Generously brush the tops and insides of the cut rolls with the butter mixture. Make sure to coat them all over for maximum flavor. As you do this, the rolls will start to look glossy and inviting, making your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish irresistible.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes fluffy and smooth. Then, add the room-temperature egg, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until your filling is creamy and well blended. This luscious filling is key to your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish.

Step 6: Fill the Rolls
Spoon your cream cheese mixture into each roll’s cavity, filling them generously but not overflowing. For an extra burst of flavor, top each filled roll with a spoonful of cherry pie filling. The fruity touch elevates the sweetness and adds a delightful visual appeal.

Step 7: Bake the Danishes
Place the filled rolls on your prepared baking sheet and bake for approximately 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the rolls turn golden brown and the filling is set. The warm aroma filling your kitchen is the perfect sign of deliciousness ahead.

Step 8: Cool and Prepare Icing
Once baked, allow your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danishes to cool for a few minutes on the rack. Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla in a bowl until smooth. This icing will add a delightful sweetness to your cooled danishes.

Step 9: Drizzle the Icing
Once the danishes have cooled slightly, drizzle the icing generously over each one. The sweet glaze will complement the creamy filling and create a stunning finish to your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish, adding an inviting shine that’s simply irresistible.

What to Serve with King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish

Imagine a comforting breakfast or brunch table laid with delightful accompaniments to elevate your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the sweet danish, balancing the richness with vibrant flavors.
Scrambled Eggs: Soft and fluffy, they provide a savory counterpart that complements the sweetness of the danish beautifully.
Bacon or Sausage Links: The savory, salty elements from crispy bacon or sausage create a perfect balance of flavors, making each bite satisfying.
Yoga or Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt serves as a light, tangy addition, enhancing the meal’s texture and providing a healthful option.
Hot Coffee or Tea: Warm beverages like coffee or tea not only offer comforting warmth but also enhance the sweet notes of the danish.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an added layer of sweetness, drizzle some maple syrup over your danish, creating a decadent brunch treat.

Pair these options with your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish to create a memorable breakfast that delights the senses!

How to Store and Freeze King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish

Room Temperature: Store leftover danishes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for snacking or breakfast.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly firmer.
Freezer: Freeze the King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap each danish tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm. Enjoy the delectable taste of fresh-baked danish again!

Make Ahead Options

These King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danishes are perfect for making ahead to save precious time during busy mornings! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and assemble the danishes in advance, storing them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to keep the rolls sealed to maintain their moisture. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them into the oven for about 20 minutes—this way, they’ll be just as scrumptious and fluffy as if made fresh! With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy a delightful breakfast with minimal effort.

Expert Tips for King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish

Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth filling.
Perfect Butter Coating: Don’t skip on brushing the butter mixture thoroughly over both tops and insides of the rolls. This step maximizes flavor and creates a delightful glaze while baking.
Egg Temperature Matters: Always use a room-temperature egg for your filling. It blends more easily and helps achieve a creamy texture in your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish.
Watch Your Baking Time: Keep a close eye on baking time, especially if you’re using larger rolls or different toppings. Adjust accordingly to avoid underbaking or overbaking.
Add Fresh Fruit: Consider adding fresh fruit as an additional topping before baking. It introduces a wonderful burst of flavor and freshness to each bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the filling a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just fill the rolls and bake them fresh in the morning for an effortless breakfast!

King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish Variations

Feel free to add your unique touch to the King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish for a delightful spin on this classic treat!

Fruit-Filled: Substitute the cherry pie filling with raspberry or apple for a fresh flavor twist. It’s like having a mini pie in each roll!
Chocolate Delight: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a decadent dessert that’ll satisfy all your sweet cravings. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the fluffy rolls.
Nuts Optional: Stir in ¼ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to give the filling an exciting crunch. This texture twist elevates your danish to gourmet status.
Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and non-dairy butter for an equally delicious dairy-free version. You’ll still get that creamy goodness without any dairy.
Cinnamon Swirl: Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the cream cheese filling for a warm and inviting spice. It adds an aromatic depth that transforms the classic recipe.
Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor. It’s a refreshing addition, perfect for springtime brunches!
Pumpkin Spice: In the fall, try incorporating canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the filling for a cozy, seasonal twist. Imagine the autumn aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Glaze Upgrade: Drizzle with a passion fruit or caramel glaze instead of the regular icing for an exciting flavor adventure that surprises every bite. Such a fun way to dress up your danishes!

These variations not only allow for creativity in the kitchen but also make sure you can enjoy the wonderful flavor of the King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish, whatever your mood or occasion! For more delightful breakfast inspirations, don’t miss out on my recipe for Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito or the delightful Broccoli Cheese Rounds. Happy baking!

King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best King’s Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! Look for unbaked rolls that are soft and free from any visible damage. The rolls should have a slightly sweet aroma and no dark spots all over. Fresh rolls will yield the best texture and flavor in your King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish.

How should I store leftover King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?
For leftovers, it’s best to place them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 3-5 days. Just be aware that refrigeration may alter their softness.

Can I freeze my King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?
Absolutely! To freeze, first wrap each danish tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What should I do if my cream cheese filling is too lumpy?
No worries! If your filling is too lumpy, it’s likely because the cream cheese wasn’t softened enough. For the smoothest filling, make sure to let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. If you encounter lumps while mixing, try beating it with a hand mixer to achieve that creamy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?
Yes, there are a few! If you’re serving these danishes to someone with gluten allergies, be sure to choose gluten-free rolls. For dairy allergies, consider substituting the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Always check the ingredients of your pie fillings and sugar for any hidden allergens!

Can I add fresh fruit to my King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?
Very! Adding fresh fruit is a delightful twist. You can sprinkle sliced strawberries or blueberries on top before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add a significant amount of fruit to ensure everything cooks evenly.