There’s something incredibly refreshing about the tangy, zesty flavor of lemon cheesecake, all wrapped up in a flaky crescent roll. These Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls combine the rich, creamy cheesecake filling with the buttery, golden crescent dough, resulting in a delightful bite-sized dessert. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or anytime you crave something sweet and tangy, these rolls are sure to impress. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Here’s why it’s a favorite
Creamy and Tangy: The lemon cheesecake filling is rich and creamy, with a perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet cheesecake.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy days when you still want something delicious.
Flaky and Golden: The crescent dough adds a buttery, flaky texture that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Perfect for Parties: These rolls are the perfect size for sharing at gatherings, brunches, or potlucks.
Indulgent Yet Simple: The combination of lemon cheesecake and crescent dough is a delightful twist on a classic dessert
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Dough: Ready-made crescent roll dough saves time and effort. Look for refrigerated dough for the best results.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese forms the base of the cheesecake filling.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the filling.
Lemon Zest & Juice: Infuses the filling with bright, zesty lemon flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the filling.
Powdered Sugar (Optional): For dusting the finished rolls with a touch of sweetness.
Chopped Nuts or Lemon Slices (Optional): For an extra garnish, sprinkle with chopped nuts or add a slice of lemon on top.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create these delightful rolls
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Assemble the Rolls: Unroll the crescent dough and press the perforations together to seal. Spread the lemon cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll and Pinch: Starting from the longest edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices. Place each slice, cut-side up, on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with chopped nuts or lemon slices if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 250
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
These rolls pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your experience
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
Whipped Cream: Top each roll with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, these rolls are decadent enough to enjoy on their own. Simply savor each bite and let the flavors dance on your palate
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe
Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon zest and juice provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice for a more authentic taste.
Double the Batch: This recipe scales easily, so feel free to double it for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Freeze for Later: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Add Toppings: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed cookies on top.
Experiment with Fillings: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon curd for a unique twist
FAQ Section
1. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough? Yes! Puff pastry can be substituted for a more flaky texture. Adjust the baking time as needed.
2. What type of lemons should I use? Any fresh lemon will work, but Meyer lemons offer a milder, sweeter flavor.
3. Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them. Simply bake when ready.
4. How do I store leftover rolls? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Freeze for longer storage.
5. Can I freeze the rolls? Absolutely! Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
6. Can I double the recipe? Definitely. Doubling the recipe is simple and ensures you have plenty for sharing or snacking later.
7. Is this recipe suitable for a low-sugar diet? Not as written, but you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a sugar-free whipped cream.
8. Can I skip the lemon? You can, though the lemon adds a refreshing twist. Substitute with another citrus zest or omit entirely for a classic cheesecake filling.
9. Do I need to chill the rolls before baking? Chilling isn’t necessary, but it can help prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
10. Can I add toppings to the rolls? Absolutely! Sprinkle with chopped nuts, drizzle with caramel sauce, or add a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair
Conclusion
There you have it a delicious and refreshing Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Roll recipe that’s sure to become a go-to dessert in your kitchen. With their creamy, tangy lemon cheesecake filling and buttery crescent dough, these rolls are a treat that satisfies both your cravings and creativity. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s bake something amazing together! Your taste buds will thank you
Print
Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Flaky, buttery crescent rolls filled with a creamy, zesty lemon cheesecake filling these delightful pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert! The combination of tangy lemon and rich cheesecake wrapped in golden crescent dough makes them an irresistible treat. Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style indulgence!
Ingredients
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Crescent Rolls:
Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
Spread 1-2 teaspoons of the lemon cheesecake filling onto the wide end of each crescent.
Gently roll up each crescent, starting from the wide end and tucking the filling inside.
- Bake:
Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool & Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly.
Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Enjoy your warm, flaky, and creamy Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls!
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice).
- Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated dessert.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: ~180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg