Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate sweet-tart treat: Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls. These wonderful rolls bring together the indulgent creaminess of cheesecake and the bright zing of lemon, all wrapped up in buttery, flaky crescent dough. Each bite is pure sunshine and comfort, perfect for a weekend brunch or an after-dinner delight. If you’re a fan of refreshing lemon desserts and crave something quick yet stunning, you’re going to adore this recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a few everyday ingredients are all it takes to create Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls, but every single one plays a special part. From the velvety cream cheese to the tangy lemon curd and that essential burst of fresh zest, these simple staples combine to make a treat that’s bright, creamy, and lightly sweet.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (1 can, 8-count): This classic shortcut gives you beautiful, golden layers without the fuss of homemade pastry.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Softening makes for easy mixing and irresistibly creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Just enough to sweeten the cream cheese and enhance all the lemony notes.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright, refreshing tang that really makes the cheesecake filling pop.
- Lemon zest (1/2 teaspoon): The zest brings a burst of essential oils, giving deep, aromatic lemon flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): A little vanilla rounds out the tartness and ties everything together.
- Lemon curd (1/3 cup): This delivers a hit of rich, silky, tart lemon goodness in each bite.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon, for brushing): A quick buttery brush makes every roll crisp and golden as it bakes.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): For that irresistible, bakery-style finish – a snowy dusting makes it special.
How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls bake up evenly and lift off the pan with no sticking. Prepping your ingredients and workspace before you begin helps everything flow smoothly (and makes the process way more fun!).
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, blend together your softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is totally smooth. This dreamy, lemon-spiked cheesecake base is the heart of each roll, so don’t rush this step. A spatula or hand mixer works great to get everything light and lump-free.
Step 3: Unroll and Fill the Crescents
Pop open your can of crescent roll dough and gently separate it into 8 triangles. On the widest end of each triangle, spread about 1 teaspoon of your cream cheese mixture and then swirl 1 teaspoon of lemon curd right on top. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy – the flavors will blend deliciously as they bake.
Step 4: Roll and Arrange
Working with each triangle, gently roll up the dough starting from the wide end, tucking in the sweet lemony filling as you go. Once rolled, place each on your prepared baking sheet, seam-side down to help keep all that luscious filling inside as the rolls puff and brown in the oven.
Step 5: Butter and Bake
Brush the tops of your rolls with melted butter for that signature golden sheen and crackly top. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the crescent rolls are puffed and gloriously golden.
Step 6: Dust and Serve
Let the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls cool for just a few minutes – they’re absolutely heavenly when a bit warm! Right before serving, give them a generous dusting of powdered sugar for that classic, bakery-fresh finish.
How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar is always a must, but you can also add a bit of extra lemon zest over the top for color and zing. For a fancier touch at brunch, try a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a few fresh raspberries alongside the rolls. This not only adds a pop of color but also layers more bright flavors with every bite.
Side Dishes
If you’re serving Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls as part of a brunch spread, they pair beautifully with fresh fruit salad, a scoop of Greek yogurt, or even a crisp side of bacon for a sweet-and-savory contrast. For dessert, simply plate the rolls with a few sliced strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing finish.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these rolls into a delightful dessert centerpiece by stacking them on a cake stand and scattering lemon slices or edible flowers around the base. For a brunch buffet, arrange the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in a spiral on a platter and serve with little bowls of extra lemon curd or berry jam for dipping. Mini cupcake liners can also make individual rolls feel extra special for parties or showers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls left over (and that’s a big if!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, and the creamy filling stays deliciously rich and moist.
Freezing
For longer storage, these rolls freeze surprisingly well. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll be at their best if enjoyed within one month. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in a 325°F oven for a few minutes until just heated through. The dough will crisp up again, and the filling will be perfectly melty. You can also use an air fryer for a quick and easy option that delivers a lovely, bakery-style texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade lemon curd recipe, feel free to swap it in. The fresh, zesty flavor of homemade curd will take your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls to an extra-special place.
Can I make the cream cheese filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake filling up to two days ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the rolls. This can save you time if you’re planning for a busy morning or hosting brunch.
Do these need to be served warm?
While Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are simply magical when served warm and fresh from the oven, they’re also delightful at room temperature. If you’ve made them ahead, a quick reheat will bring back all their fluffiness and gooey appeal.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
You sure can! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches, or use a larger baking sheet if you have one that fits your oven. These are perfect for parties and brunches, and they always disappear fast.
What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
A microplane or fine grater works best to quickly zest your lemon while avoiding the bitter white pith. Fresh zest is key to making the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls truly shine, so zest the lemon right before you use it for the brightest flavor.
Final Thoughts
You’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying warm, sweet-tart Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls that taste like sunshine on a plate. Whether you bake them for breakfast, dessert, or a special gathering, I promise these are the kind of treats that bring smiles and requests for the recipe. Give them a try – your friends and family will be glad you did!
Print
Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are a delightful combination of flaky crescent dough filled with a creamy, tangy lemon cheesecake mixture. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are easy to make and bursting with citrus flavor.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Dough:
- 1 can (8-count) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup lemon curd
Additional:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
- 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 the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fill the Dough: Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Spread cream cheese mixture and lemon curd on each triangle. Roll up the crescents and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush the rolls with melted butter and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Best served warm, can be reheated
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more zest or lemon curd
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
