Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the sweet-scented King Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish from the oven, the warm, fluffy rolls beckoned me to take a bite. This irresistible dessert marries the playful texture of soft, buttery bread with a creamy cheesecake filling that’s simply a joy to make. Adding a colorful medley of fresh fruits on top transforms it into an eye-catching centerpiece, perfect for gatherings or indulgent Sunday brunches. What’s even better? It’s an easy dessert that looks deceptively impressive, making it ideal for both seasoned bakers and those just beginning their kitchen adventures. Are you ready to dive into this delightful concoction that will quickly become a family favorite? Why is this Danish so delightful? Simplicity, with just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Fluffy Rolls provide a sweet, airy base that pairs beautifully with the rich cheesecake filling. Versatile Toppings allow you to get creative—use your favorite fruits for a personalized touch! Impressive Presentation makes it a showstopper for gatherings—your guests will be raving about this treat. Effortless Prep means more time to enjoy with friends and family, whether it’s a brunch or a special occasion. For another delightful dessert idea, check out the scrumptious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump! Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Ingredients For the Danish Base King Hawaiian Rolls – Provides the sweet, fluffy texture needed for this indulgent treat; feel free to substitute with similar sweet bread rolls if you’re in a pinch. Cream Cheese – Essential for the rich cheesecake filling that makes this dessert so creamy; for an even lighter touch, consider using mascarpone cheese. Sugar – Sweetens the filling and balances the flavors; if you’re looking for a low-calorie option, a sugar alternative works beautifully here. Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure; for a vegan version, replace with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; almond extract is a delightful alternative if you’re feeling adventurous. For the Topping Fresh or Canned Fruits – Adds a vibrant splash of color and flavor contrast; fresh fruits yield the best results, but canned is a convenient option when fresh isn’t available. For the Optional Glaze Powdered Sugar – Sweet topping that adds a glossy finish; mix with milk to achieve the desired consistency—feel free to skip for a healthier version! You’re now equipped to whip up a Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish that not only tastes divine but is sure to be the star of the show! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Step 1: Prepare Rolls Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you arrange the King Hawaiian rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly. These sweet, fluffy rolls need to warm up and be ready for the creamy filling. Gently press them together, creating a cozy base for the Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish. Step 2: Make Filling In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. The filling should be thick and luscious, perfect for that rich cheesecake flavor that will complement the fluffy rolls perfectly. This velvety concoction is the heart of your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish. Step 3: Assemble Danish Carefully cut the King Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a pocket for the cheesecake filling. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly into each roll, ensuring generous amounts so every bite is delightful. Once all rolls are filled, close them and place the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Step 4: Cool & Glaze Once your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is beautifully golden, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. If you choose to glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth, then drizzle it over the warm rolls. The glaze will add a sweet shimmer, enhancing the dessert’s appealing presentation. Step 5: Top with Fruit Finish your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish by decorating the tops with an array of fresh or canned fruits, such as berries, peaches, or whatever tropical toppings inspire you. This bright addition not only brings color but also adds fresh flavor to each slice, transforming your dessert into an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering. How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish fresh and ready for a quick dessert fix. Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat later. Reheating: To reheat, let frozen portions thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that fluffy texture. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish a day in advance; simply bake before serving to enjoy fresh, warm flavors. Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Variations Feel free to get creative and customize your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish for delightful new flavors and textures! Flavored Cream Cheese: Swap plain cream cheese for strawberry or lemon-infused cream cheese for a fruity twist. The fresh flavors will elevate your dessert to a new level! Nutty Delight: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cream cheese filling for delightful crunch. This variation not only adds texture but also complements the cheesecake beautifully. Mix & Match Fruits: Use a colorful medley of fruits like mixed berries, peaches, or pineapple for a tropical burst. Get playful with the presentation for a stunning visual appeal! Choco-Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling for a rich dessert experience. The combination of cheesecake and chocolate creates an irresistible indulgence! Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese with a plant-based alternative such as cashew cream or tofu-based cream cheese. With a hint of lemon juice, the filling remains creamy and delicious! Sugar-Free Swap: For a lower-calorie treat, utilize a sugar alternative in your filling and topping, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert worry-free. Spiced Twist: Experiment by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor that complements the tropical fruit topping. Unexpected Glaze: Instead of a classic powdered sugar glaze, try a citrus glaze made with orange or lemon juice for a zesty finishing touch. This will brighten the whole dessert! Don’t forget to explore the goodness of desserts like Pistachio Cheesecake Brownies for more delightful treats that await you! Make Ahead Options These Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this indulgent treat on busy days! You can prepare the rolls and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the danishes by cutting the rolls and filling them with the cream cheese mixture, then cover and refrigerate. To maintain their quality, ensure they are tightly sealed to prevent drying out. When ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the assembled danishes until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Top with fresh fruits after baking for a vibrant finish that keeps them just as delicious! Expert Tips for Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will create a smoother, lump-free filling that enhances the overall texture of your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish. Watch the Baking Time: To avoid dryness, keep an eye on your Danish while it bakes. The perfect golden brown top indicates it’s done—overbaking can lead to a less enjoyable texture. Prevent Sogginess: When filling the rolls, don’t over-soak them with the cream cheese mixture. This helps prevent sogginess, ensuring your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish retains that delightful fluffy texture. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract or add a fruit-flavored cream cheese for a unique twist that keeps your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish exciting. Fresh is Best: Use fresh fruits whenever possible for topping. They not only enhance flavor but also make your dessert more visually appealing, making it irresistible for gatherings. What to Serve with Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish The Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is a heavenly treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and drinks, enhancing your dessert experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing balance to the sweet Danish, allowing each bite to shine. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold scoop melts perfectly against the warm, fluffy Danish, creating a luscious contrast that’s hard to resist. Honey-Drizzled Greek Yogurt: This option delivers creaminess with a subtle tang, complementing the richness of the cheesecake without overwhelming the sweetness. Coffee or Espresso: The deep, rich flavors of coffee provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and fluffy Danish, amplifying enjoyment during brunch or dessert time. Mint Infused Iced Tea: Refreshing and light, this drink’s herbal notes help cut through the creaminess, making each bite of Danish even more delightful. Enjoy it on a warm afternoon—perfect for a lovely gathering! Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Add an indulgent touch by serving chocolate-covered strawberries alongside, offering a sweet and decadent bite with every mouthful. Your Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish will shine even brighter with these delightful pairings, making every occasion special! Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right King Hawaiian rolls for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for soft, fluffy rolls with a slight golden hue and a sweet aroma—these indicate freshness. Avoid rolls with dark spots or hard texture; they won’t provide the best base for your cheesecake filling. If you can’t find King Hawaiian rolls, any similar sweet bread roll can work beautifully as a substitute. How should I store leftovers of the Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish? Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the rolls moist and delicious for your sweet cravings. Just remember to seal them well to prevent any drying out or absorbing other fridge odors! Can I freeze my Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish? Of course! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. These can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore that fluffy, fresh-baked texture. What if my cheesecake filling is too thick or lumpy? No worries, this can happen! If your filling is too thick, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this allows for easier blending. If you find it lumpy, continue to beat the mixture until smooth. You can also add a teaspoon of milk or cream to loosen it up slightly for the perfect creamy filling you desire. Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free? Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water equals 1 egg) and use a coconut cream or vegan cream cheese. For gluten-free, opt for gluten-free sweet bread rolls while ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of? Indeed! Since this recipe contains cream cheese, eggs, and potentially gluten (in the rolls), it’s important to be cautious if serving guests with allergies. Always double-check with your guests regarding any food allergies, and consider alternatives like nut cream cheese or allergen-free bread if needed. Decadent Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish You'll Love to Share This Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish combines fluffy rolls with creamy filling and vibrant toppings, making it a delicious and impressive dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Danish Base1 package King Hawaiian Rolls or similar sweet bread rolls16 oz Cream Cheese softened, can substitute with mascarpone1/2 cup Sugar or sugar alternative for low-calorie2 large Eggs or 2 flax eggs for vegan option1 tbsp Vanilla Extract or almond extractFor the Topping2 cups Fresh or Canned Fruits such as berries, peachesFor the Optional Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar mix with milk to desired consistency Equipment 9x13-inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you arrange the King Hawaiian rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth, about 3 minutes.Carefully cut the King Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, spoon the cream cheese mixture into each roll, and close them.Place the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.Once golden, cool for about 10 minutes. If glazing, mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and drizzle over rolls.Top with an array of fresh or canned fruits. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesUse fresh fruits whenever possible for the topping for enhanced flavor and presentation. Room temperature cream cheese helps achieve a smoother filling. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!