If you’re searching for a cheery, utterly irresistible dessert that’s ready in a snap, this Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe is about to become your new baking obsession. Imagine golden, buttery crescent rolls hugging a tangy, sweet lemon cheesecake filling, finished with a fragrant dusting of powdered sugar. Each bite is like sunshine on a plate, perfect for brunch, a sweet snack, or even an easy dessert. Not only is this recipe a total showstopper in flavor, but it also comes together in no time with simple ingredients you probably have on hand!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how wonderfully uncomplicated the ingredient list is. Each component is essential, playing either a starring role in the creamy filling or giving the crescent rolls their flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s what you need—and why it matters:
- Crescent Roll Dough: The hero shortcut for this Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe, making them quick and perfectly flaky without any fuss.
- Cream Cheese: When softened, it creates that signature cheesecake creaminess at the heart of every roll.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens up the filling, balancing the tartness of the lemon beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, tangy kick to make the cheesecake flavor pop.
- Lemon Zest: Gives each bite an extra burst of citrusy aroma and flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the filling, adding a lovely warmth and depth.
- Melted Butter: Brushed on top for irresistible golden color and rich flavor.
- Coarse or Turbinado Sugar (optional): A sparkling crunch for the finish—totally optional but delightful.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting over the finished rolls, giving them that classic bakery look and a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures your crescent rolls bake up golden and crisp on the outside while staying gloriously soft inside. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, which will prevent sticking and make cleanup a total breeze.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is super smooth—this luscious, lemony mixture is what sets this Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe apart from all the rest. The fresher the lemon zest, the brighter the flavor, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: Fill and Roll the Dough
Unroll your crescent dough and separate it into eight triangles. At the wide end of each triangle, place a generous spoonful of your lemon cheesecake filling—don’t be shy! Gently roll each triangle up toward the tip, tucking in the filling as you go. You’ll end up with tidy little bundles just waiting to get golden in the oven.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Arrange your filled crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the tops with melted butter, which encourages gorgeous browning and a delicious sheen. If you want a little sparkle and crunch, sprinkle them with coarse or turbinado sugar before baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. You’re looking for puffed, golden crescents with hints of filling peeking out. Let them cool for just a few minutes before dusting the tops generously with powdered sugar. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible!
How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A pretty dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but consider adding a drizzle of lemon glaze for an extra tangy finish. Fresh lemon zest curls or thin lemon slices also make the platter pop. Even a handful of fresh berries on the side can add color and a sweet-tart contrast.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine alongside a mug of coffee or hot tea. For brunch or dessert spreads, pair with a bowl of mixed berries, a scoop of vanilla yogurt, or a fresh fruit salad to lighten and balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe pyramid-style on a pretty cake stand for brunch, or nestle each roll in a cupcake liner for parties. They also make a charming edible gift—just arrange in a bakery box with a ribbon and a handwritten note.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover crescent rolls in an airtight container. They’ll keep on the counter for up to one day, or refrigerate for up to three days. The cheesecake filling will stay creamy, and the pastry stays tender!
Freezing
Want to batch-bake or save some for later? Once completely cooled, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then pop into a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
To freshen up leftover Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe, simply warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 8 minutes. This revives that crisp, bakery-style exterior and warms the filling without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I double the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles beautifully—just use two cans of crescent roll dough and double all other ingredients. Bake in batches or on separate sheets for perfect results.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can swap in low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option. The texture may be a touch less rich, but the flavor and creaminess will still be terrific.
Can I add fruit to the filling?
Yes! A few small raspberries or blueberries tucked alongside the filling are delicious. Just avoid overfilling to prevent spills during baking.
Do these have to be served warm?
Nope! While freshly baked Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe are magical warm from the oven, they’re also delicious at room temperature and make a great packable treat.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely. Mix the cream cheese filling up to two days ahead and store in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply assemble and bake as directed—it couldn’t be easier!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you make space in your kitchen (and heart!) for this Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and buttery, and honestly, it brings a bit of sunshine to any table. Give it a whirl—you might just find it becomes your new favorite go-to treat for any occasion!
Print
Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are a delightful dessert or sweet treat perfect for any occasion. Flaky crescent roll dough is filled with a creamy lemon cheesecake mixture, baked until golden, and dusted with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Ingredients
Crescent Rolls:
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
Lemon Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon coarse or turbinado sugar (optional)
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fill the crescent rolls: Unroll the crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Place a spoonful of the lemon cheesecake filling at the wide end of each triangle, then roll up tightly toward the tip to enclose the filling.
- Bake: Place the filled rolls on the baking sheet. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired, and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Finish and serve: Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- These rolls are perfect for brunch or as a quick dessert option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crescent roll
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
