Name: Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-482358H57M7S
Total time: 39 min
Cuisine: American
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; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2 to 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice; Fresh grated lemon peel for garnish (optional)

Indulge in a burst of citrusy delight with our recipe for Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls. These heavenly treats marry the creamy richness of cheesecake with the zesty freshness of lemon, all wrapped up in a flaky crescent dough. Whether you’re craving a sweet breakfast, a brunch centerpiece, or a delectable dessert, these rolls are guaranteed to add a ray of sunshine to any occasion.

Ingredients:

For Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls:

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:

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, blend softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and grated lemon peel until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.

Roll Out Dough: Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Place them on a flat surface.

Fill and Roll: Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese lemon mixture onto the widest end of each crescent triangle, then roll them up, starting from the wide end and tucking the pointy end underneath. Pinch the seams to seal the filling inside.

Bake: Arrange the filled crescents on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with melted butter. Bake on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 11–14 minutes or until golden brown.

Prepare Glaze: While the crescents are baking, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with additional lemon juice if needed.

Glaze and Garnish: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm crescent rolls and, if desired, garnish with fresh grated lemon peel.

Serve and Enjoy: Allow the rolls to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. These Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are best enjoyed warm and can be stored in the refrigerator for any leftovers.

Serving Tips:

Warm and Fresh: These Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are best enjoyed warm from the oven when the filling is creamy and the dough is still flaky. Serve them immediately after baking for maximum flavor and texture.

Brunch Delight: Impress your brunch guests by serving these rolls alongside fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of citrusy sweetness and creamy richness will be a hit at any gathering.

Afternoon Treat: Pair these rolls with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. The refreshing lemon flavor provides a welcome pick-me-up during the day.

Dessert Indulgence: Transform these rolls into a decadent dessert by serving them with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of lemon sorbet. The contrast of warm rolls and cold toppings creates a delightful sensory experience.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow them to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, simply reheat the refrigerated rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 20-30 seconds per roll for a quick and convenient option.

Freezing: While these rolls are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for longer storage. Place cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 1-2 months. To reheat frozen rolls, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.

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FAQs:

Can I use homemade crescent dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the convenience of using refrigerated crescent dough is undeniable, homemade crescent dough can elevate the flavor and texture of these rolls even further. Simply substitute your favorite homemade crescent dough recipe in place of the refrigerated dough for a personalized touch.

Can I adjust the lemon flavor in the filling and glaze to suit my preferences?

Yes, you can easily customize the lemon flavor to your liking. If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, you can add extra grated lemon peel to the filling or increase the amount of lemon juice in the glaze. Conversely, if you prefer a milder lemon taste, you can reduce the amount of lemon peel and juice accordingly.

Can I prepare the rolls in advance and bake them later?

Absolutely! These Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to step 5 (filling and rolling the crescents), then cover the assembled rolls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the rolls to come to room temperature while preheating the oven, then proceed with the remaining steps as directed.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out of the rolls during baking?

To prevent the filling from leaking out of the rolls while baking, make sure to seal the edges of the crescent dough securely after rolling them up. Press the seams together firmly to ensure a tight seal, and place the rolls seam side down on the baking sheet. Additionally, avoid overfilling the rolls with the cream cheese lemon mixture, as this can cause leakage during baking. With proper sealing and filling, you can enjoy perfectly intact and delicious Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls every time.

Conclusion:

With a prep time of just 25 minutes, these Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are a quick and easy way to elevate any meal or snack time. Whether you savor them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, their irresistible combination of creamy cheesecake and tangy lemon will leave your taste buds singing. Try this recipe today and bring a burst of citrusy sunshine to your table!

📖 Recipe: