We’ve always loved the irresistible sweetness of King’s Hawaiian bread and how it transforms everyday baking. In this recipe we’re sharing our take on a classic cheese Danish using those fluffy rolls for a delightful twist that blends tropical vibes with creamy indulgence.
It’s the perfect fusion for breakfast or brunch and promises to impress your family and friends. Let’s explore how we can create this simple yet mouthwatering treat right in our kitchens.
Ingredients
In our King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend the tropical sweetness of King’s Hawaiian bread with creamy, indulgent cheese filling. This selection ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making your homemade treat as irresistible as it is simple to prepare.
Base Ingredients
- 1 package (12 count) King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced horizontally for easy layering (we recommend using a serrated knife for clean cuts).
Cheese Filling Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature (this helps achieve a smooth, lump-free mixture when blending).
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, measured precisely for the right level of sweetness.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature to enhance binding and fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, for a rich, aromatic depth that complements the King’s Hawaiian flavor.
Topping and Finishing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted to brush over the rolls for a golden, crispy finish.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted for dusting at the end to add a light, elegant touch.
These ingredients, used in sequence during preparation, create a harmonious dish that highlights the signature tropical notes of King’s Hawaiian while delivering a creamy, satisfying cheese Danish experience.
Equipment Needed
To bring our King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish recipe to life, we rely on a few key pieces of equipment that ensure precise preparation and perfect results every time. Let’s equip our kitchen with the essentials to handle the ingredients like King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls and cream cheese filling seamlessly.
Essential Tools
For mixing and assembling our delightful King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish, we need these essential tools to maintain efficiency and accuracy:
- Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl for combining the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; we suggest one that’s microwave-safe or heat-resistant for any quick melting tasks.
- Electric mixer or whisk: This tool is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy filling—we prefer an electric mixer for its speed and consistency in blending ingredients without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s balance; use a set of dry and liquid measuring cups to portion out granulated sugar and vanilla extract precisely.
- Spatula: A flexible silicone spatula helps us fold ingredients gently and scrape bowls clean, ensuring no waste from our cheese mixture.
- Knife and cutting board: For slicing the King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls, we recommend a sharp knife to create even bases without crushing the bread’s soft texture.
Baking Supplies
- Baking sheet or dish: A 9×13-inch rimmed baking sheet works best for arranging the rolls and allowing the butter to spread evenly; we opt for a non-stick version to prevent sticking.
- Parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with this to ensure easy removal and a clean bake—it’s our go-to for avoiding messy cleanups.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee the oven reaches the exact temperature needed (around 350°F), we use this for consistent results, as slight variations can affect the bread’s tropical sweetness.
- Cooling rack: After baking, place the Danish on this to cool evenly and maintain its creamy texture without sogginess.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, let’s guide you through crafting our irresistible King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish step by step. We’ll ensure every detail leads to a perfectly balanced treat with its sweet, tropical notes and creamy filling.
Prepare the Filling
First, we soften 8 ounces of cream cheese in a mixing bowl by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes—this makes it easier to achieve a smooth, velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Next, add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, one large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and free of lumps, releasing an aromatic vanilla scent that hints at the indulgent flavor ahead. Once blended, set the filling aside; its rich, creamy consistency will perfectly complement the sweetness of the King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls.
Assemble the Danish
To assemble, we slice 12 King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls horizontally using a sharp knife on a cutting board, creating a pocket in each without separating them completely—this allows for even filling distribution. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the prepared cheese filling into each roll’s pocket, ensuring it’s evenly spread for a burst of creamy goodness in every bite. Brush the tops generously with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, which adds a golden, crisp finish and enhances the rolls’ signature tropical flavor. Arrange the filled rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart to promote even baking and a delightful contrast of soft centers and lightly toasted exteriors.
Bake the Danish
Preheat your oven to 350°F for optimal results, using an oven thermometer to confirm accuracy. Place the assembled Danish on the middle rack and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown and the filling sets with a slight puff—watch for the irresistible aroma of warm, buttery sweetness filling your kitchen. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the Danish cool on a rack for 10 minutes to firm up, then dust lightly with powdered sugar for a final touch of sweetness that elevates the dish’s visual appeal and flavor.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify your preparation for the King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish, we recommend making certain components ahead of time. This approach allows you to enjoy fresh-baked treats with minimal effort on the day of serving, ensuring a seamless breakfast or brunch experience.
Preparing the Cheese Filling in Advance
We often prepare the cheese filling up to 2 days ahead to save time. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Softening the cream cheese: Start by letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it in short bursts until soft and pliable.
- Mixing the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, large egg, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes 2-3 minutes.
- Storing properly: Transfer the filling to an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents bacterial growth.
Assembling the Danish Ahead of Time
For even greater convenience, you can assemble the entire King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish the night before baking. Here’s how we do it:
- Slicing the rolls: Use a knife to carefully slice the King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls, creating a pocket for the filling without separating them completely.
- Filling the rolls: Spoon the prepared cheese mixture into each roll pocket, ensuring even distribution for a balanced bite.
- Brushing and covering: Brush the tops with melted butter for that golden finish, then cover the assembled Danish with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This step allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the tropical sweetness of the King’s Hawaiian bread.
Baking from Make-Ahead Prep
- Thawing and preheating: If assembling ahead, remove the Danish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Baking time adjustments: Bake as per the main instructions, but add 2-5 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Use an oven thermometer to maintain accuracy and ensure the Danish turns golden brown.
| Make-Ahead Step | Recommended Time Frame | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare filling only | Up to 2 days ahead | Maintains freshness and reduces morning prep |
| Full assembly | Up to 24 hours ahead | Allows flavors to develop and saves time |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish recipe with you, blending tropical sweetness and creamy indulgence for unforgettable moments. It’s a simple way to elevate your mornings or gatherings, leaving everyone craving more.
Try it out and make it your go-to treat—it’s bound to impress and bring a touch of homemade magic to your table. We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?
King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish is a delicious recipe that fuses the sweet, tropical flavors of King’s Hawaiian bread with a creamy cheese filling, inspired by classic Danish pastries. It’s a simple homemade treat perfect for breakfast or brunch, blending soft rolls with a mix of cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla for a delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess.
What ingredients are needed for King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?
The key ingredients include King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls as the base, cream cheese for the filling, granulated sugar, a large egg, and vanilla extract. For topping, you’ll need melted butter and powdered sugar. These fresh, high-quality items ensure a harmonious blend of tropical sweetness and creamy texture, making the recipe easy and flavorful.
What equipment is required to make this recipe?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula, knife, cutting board, baking sheet or dish, parchment paper, oven thermometer, and cooling rack. These essentials help with efficient mixing, assembling, and baking for precise, professional results.
How do I prepare King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish?
Start by softening cream cheese and mixing it with sugar, egg, and vanilla until fluffy. Slice the sweet rolls, fill with the cheese mixture, and brush with melted butter. Bake at 350°F until golden brown, then cool and dust with powdered sugar. The process is straightforward and yields a sweet, creamy treat in about 30-40 minutes of baking.
Can I make King’s Hawaiian Cheese Danish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cheese filling up to two days in advance by mixing and storing it in the fridge. You can also assemble the Danish the night before and refrigerate it, allowing flavors to meld. When baking from cold, add a few extra minutes to the time. This makes it ideal for stress-free breakfasts or brunches.
What are some tips for the best results with this recipe?
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling, and don’t overmix to keep it light. Preheat your oven accurately with a thermometer for even baking. Let the Danish cool before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent melting. For extra flavor, experiment with add-ins like fruit, but keep portions balanced to highlight the tropical notes of King’s Hawaiian bread.