Introduction:
Lemon Custard Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake, all wrapped up in flaky crescent roll dough. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. They’re easy to make and deliver a burst of citrusy goodness with every bite, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Overview of the Recipe:
This recipe features a smooth and tangy cheesecake filling made with cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a touch of vanilla, which is then spread on crescent roll dough. A layer of lemon curd adds an extra zing, while a sprinkle of sugar on top gives the rolls a sweet and crispy finish. The result is a warm, golden-brown pastry that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 1 can crescent roll dough: This provides the flaky, buttery base for the rolls.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The main ingredient for the cheesecake filling, adding richness and creaminess.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture without making it grainy.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for the best flavor; adds brightness to the filling.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Balances the tartness of the lemon with a hint of warmth.
- 1/4 cup lemon curd: Provides a concentrated lemon flavor and creamy texture.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Helps achieve a golden-brown, glossy finish on the rolls.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a sweet, slightly crunchy topping to the rolls.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Assemble the Crescent Rolls:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the rolls.
- Unroll the Dough: Open the can of crescent roll dough and gently unroll it on a clean surface. Separate the dough along the perforated lines to create individual triangles.
- Spread the Lemon Curd: On each triangle of dough, spread a thin layer of lemon curd, ensuring you leave a small border around the edges to prevent overflow when rolling.
- Add the Cream Cheese Mixture: Spoon a dollop (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the prepared cream cheese mixture onto the wider end of each triangle. Spread it evenly over the lemon curd.
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up each triangle towards the narrow tip, encasing the filling inside. Place each roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
3. Bake:
- Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat 1 egg. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Sprinkle with Sugar: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar evenly over the tops of the rolls to add a touch of sweetness and extra crunch.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown. The tops should be slightly crisp, and the filling should be set.
4. Serve:
- Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. They will be very hot, especially the filling.
- Optional Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top. To make the glaze, mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency, then drizzle over the warm rolls.
- Serve Warm: These crescent rolls are best enjoyed warm when the filling is soft and the dough is tender.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions:
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these Lemon Custard Cheesecake Crescent Rolls fresh out of the oven, either as a breakfast treat with coffee or tea or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They can also be served at brunch alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced meal.
- Pairing: Pair these rolls with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. For a refreshing contrast, serve them with a glass of cold milk or iced tea.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Berry Lemon Crescent Rolls: Add a few fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, to the cream cheese mixture before rolling up the dough. This adds a fruity twist and extra flavor.
- Orange Custard Crescent Rolls: Replace the lemon juice and zest with orange juice and zest for a citrus variation. You can also use orange curd instead of lemon curd.
- Glazed Crescent Rolls: After baking, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the rolls for an extra sweet finish.
- Nutty Lemon Rolls: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the cream cheese mixture for a crunchy texture.
Health Benefits Notes:
While these Lemon Custard Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are an indulgent treat, they do contain some ingredients that offer nutritional benefits. Lemon juice and zest are rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health. Cream cheese provides calcium, which is essential for bone health. However, due to the sugar and butter content in the crescent roll dough, these rolls should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs:
- Can I make the filling in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using it in the recipe.
- Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
- Absolutely! Store-bought lemon curd works perfectly fine in this recipe. If you prefer, you can make your own homemade lemon curd for a more personalized touch.
- What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
- You can substitute granulated sugar, but powdered sugar dissolves better and provides a smoother texture in the filling.
- Can these rolls be frozen?
- Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Assemble them as instructed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply add a few minutes to the baking time.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to regain their crispness.
Conclusion:
Lemon Custard Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make pastry that combines the bright flavor of lemon with the rich creaminess of cheesecake. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress with their beautiful presentation and irresistible taste. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or as a make-ahead treat, they’re a delightful addition to any occasion.