Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

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Indulge in the irresistible blend of tangy lemon cheesecake filling wrapped in flaky crescent dough with our Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls recipe. These delightful treats are baked to golden perfection, then crowned with a zesty lemon glaze for a burst of refreshing citrus flavor. Whether enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat, a brunch addition, or a delectable dessert, these rolls are guaranteed to brighten any occasion.

Ingredients:

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with these simple ingredients:

  • 1 block package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons grated lemon peel from 1 large lemon
  • 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls or crescent dough sheets
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

For Lemon Glaze Topping:

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh grated lemon peel for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and grated lemon peel. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth and creamy.
  3. Assemble Crescent Rolls: Open the package of crescent rolls and separate the dough into 8 individual triangles. Place them on a flat surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese lemon mixture onto the widest end of each crescent triangle, dividing it evenly among the rolls.
  4. Roll and Seal: Roll up the crescents, starting from the wide end and tucking the pointy end underneath. Pinch the seams closed to seal the filling inside. Repeat with remaining crescent rolls.
  5. Brush with Butter: Place the filled crescents evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter to enhance browning.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Bake on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 11–14 minutes, or until the crescents are golden brown and flaky.
  7. Prepare Lemon Glaze: While the crescents are cooling, make the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice, mixing until smooth. Adjust the consistency with additional lemon juice as needed.
  8. Glaze and Garnish: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm crescent rolls. For an extra touch of zest, garnish with fresh grated lemon peel if desired.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls warm and revel in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake filling and tangy lemon glaze.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serve Warm:
    • Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are best enjoyed when served warm, straight from the oven. The delightful aroma and comforting warmth enhance the eating experience, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
  2. Accompaniments:
    • Consider serving these rolls alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or as a sweet addition to a brunch spread. They also pair well with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
  3. Presentation:
    • When serving, arrange the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls on a decorative platter or serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or additional grated lemon peel for an elegant touch.
  4. Reheating Instructions:
    • If reheating leftovers, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the rolls on a baking sheet. Warm them for 5-10 minutes until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it may result in soggy or unevenly heated rolls.
  5. Storage:
    • Store any leftover Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
  6. Freezing Option:
    • If you wish to extend the shelf life of the rolls, you can freeze them for future enjoyment. Place the cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  7. Thawing and Reheating:
    • When ready to enjoy frozen rolls, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat as directed above, or for a quicker option, thaw at room temperature for a few hours before reheating.
  8. Make-Ahead:
    • These rolls can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving for ultimate freshness. Simply assemble the rolls as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
  9. Portion Control:
    • For convenient portioning, consider slicing the rolls before storing. This allows for easy access to individual servings and reduces the need to reheat the entire batch at once.
  10. Enjoy Responsibly:
    • Remember to enjoy these Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While they make for a delicious treat, consuming them in excess may lead to unwanted health effects.

Variations:

  1. Blueberry Bliss: Add a spoonful of blueberry preserves or fresh blueberries to the cream cheese filling before rolling up the crescent dough. The burst of juicy blueberries adds a delightful fruity twist to the classic lemon flavor.
  2. Raspberry Delight: Swirl raspberry jam or fresh raspberries into the cream cheese mixture for a tangy and sweet combination. The vibrant color and intense flavor of raspberries complement the lemony zestiness beautifully.
  3. Almond Joy: Sprinkle slivered almonds and mini chocolate chips over the cream cheese filling before rolling up the crescent dough. The crunchy almonds and chocolatey goodness pair harmoniously with the creamy cheesecake and citrusy lemon.
  4. Lemon Raspberry Fusion: Combine lemon zest and raspberry jam in the cream cheese filling for a refreshing and fruity fusion. The tartness of the raspberries complements the bright citrus flavor, creating a burst of summer in every bite.
  5. Coconut Dream: Mix shredded coconut into the cream cheese filling for a tropical twist. The subtle sweetness and chewy texture of coconut add depth to the creamy cheesecake, reminiscent of a sunny island getaway.
  6. Chocolate Indulgence: Sprinkle chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cream cheese filling before rolling up the crescent dough. The decadent addition of chocolate provides a rich and indulgent contrast to the tangy lemon flavor.
  7. Peachy Keen: Add diced peaches or peach preserves to the cream cheese filling for a sweet and juicy variation. The delicate flavor of peaches complements the lemony cheesecake filling, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
  8. Strawberry Sunshine: Incorporate sliced strawberries or strawberry jam into the cream cheese mixture for a burst of summer sweetness. The vibrant color and juicy texture of strawberries brighten up the lemony rolls, making them perfect for any occasion.
  9. Nutty Banana: Spread a layer of creamy peanut butter and sliced bananas over the cream cheese filling before rolling up the crescent dough. The combination of nutty peanut butter, sweet bananas, and tangy lemon creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
  10. Apple Cinnamon Crunch: Top the cream cheese filling with cinnamon sugar-coated apple slices before rolling up the crescent dough. The warm spices and crunchy texture of apples add a comforting twist to the lemony rolls, perfect for autumn gatherings.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of refrigerated crescent rolls?
    • Yes, you can use homemade crescent dough if preferred. Simply roll out the dough into triangles and proceed with the recipe as directed.
  2. Can I make these crescent rolls ahead of time and bake them later?
    • Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time, cover them tightly, and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
  3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling?
    • Yes, you can use low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese as a lighter alternative. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
  4. Can I omit the lemon zest from the filling?
    • Yes, you can omit the lemon zest if desired. However, it adds a vibrant citrus flavor that complements the cream cheese filling beautifully.
  5. Can I freeze the baked crescent rolls?
    • Yes, you can freeze the baked crescent rolls for up to 1 month. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw and reheat as desired before serving.
  6. What’s the best way to store leftover lemon glaze?
    • Store any leftover lemon glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir well before using, and add a splash of lemon juice if needed to adjust the consistency.

With just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls that are bound to impress. Whether you’re treating yourself to a sweet breakfast, hosting a brunch gathering, or satisfying your dessert cravings, these rolls are the perfect choice. Experience the zesty delight of lemon-infused goodness with every heavenly bite!