If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dessert that combines the tartness of lemon with the creaminess of cheesecake, Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are the perfect treat. These flaky, buttery crescent rolls filled with a tangy, sweet lemon cheesecake mixture are ideal for brunch, snack time, or as a light dessert.
This article explains how to make these rolls and suggests a few variations to elevate your recipe. Plus, we’ll explore other recipes where crescent rolls and lemon flavors shine so you can keep your creative kitchen momentum going.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
These crescent rolls are a delightful mix of textures and flavors that hit all the right notes:
- The flaky crescent dough provides a light buttery base.
- The cream cheese filling is smooth, rich, and sweet.
- The addition of lemon zest and lemon extract offers a burst of tangy freshness.
For more lemon-infused desserts that are easy to whip up, you might enjoy this Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie, a no-bake option perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Crescent roll dough: 1 package (8-count) refrigerated.
- Cream cheese: 4 oz, cold.
- Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons.
- Lemon extract: ¼ teaspoon.
- Lemon zest: Zest of half a lemon.
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup.
- Lemon juice: 1 ½ tablespoons for the glaze.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
1. Prepare the Filling
Combine cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon extract, and lemon zest in a medium bowl. Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.
2. Fill and Roll the Crescent Dough
- Unroll the crescent roll dough into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of cheesecake filling onto the wider end of each triangle.
- Roll the dough up tightly, starting from the wider end. Tuck the edges to ensure the filling stays inside.
3. Bake
Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake at 375°F for 12-14 minutes, until golden brown.
4. Cool and Glaze
Allow the rolls to cool on a wire rack. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth for the glaze, then drizzle the glaze over the cooled rolls.
Variations to Try
These rolls are easy to customize based on your preferences:
- Fruit Filling: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Double Glaze: For extra sweetness, double the amount of glaze.
- Lemon Curd: Swap the lemon extract with lemon curd for a richer, tangier filling.
- Homemade Crescent Dough: If you prefer homemade over store-bought, try using your dough recipe for a fresher taste.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Serve these Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect brunch pairing. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider adding them to a spread that includes savory dishes like Chicken and Sausage Gumbo to offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory options.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat them again, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat them in a toaster oven.
You can also freeze the crescent rolls before or after baking. To freeze unbaked rolls, assemble them on a baking sheet and transfer them to a freezer bag. When baking from frozen, add a few minutes to the baking time. Reheat them in the oven to retain the crispy texture for already-baked rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, but the texture might be slightly thinner. Full-fat cream cheese yields a creamier and richer filling.
2. How Can I Prevent the Filling from Leaking Out?
I am sealing the edges of the crescent rolls well and avoiding overfilling. Cold cream cheese will also help keep the filling from becoming too runny.
3. Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to a day before baking. This makes it a convenient recipe for hosting brunch or preparing in advance for parties.
Conclusion
Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are ideal when you need something quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you enjoy them at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these rolls offer the perfect balance of tart lemon flavor and sweet cream cheese filling.
Want more lemon-flavored delights? Check out this Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe for another rich and delicious dessert option.
Enjoy baking and happy eating!