King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

Ingredients

1 package (12 count) sweet Hawaiian dinner rolls
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and divided
2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ tub (about 6 ounces) prepared no-bake cheesecake filling
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Part 1: Prepare the Rolls

Preheat and Butter the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take about 2 tablespoons of the melted butter and brush it evenly over the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish.

Prepare the Rolls: Open the package of Hawaiian rolls and place them as a single layer in the prepared baking dish, keeping them connected.

Create the Center Well: Using a small, sharp knife, carefully cut a circular well or a shallow « x » into the top center of each roll, being careful not to cut all the way through to the bottom. This creates a pocket for the filling. Gently remove and discard (or snack on) the small piece of bread from the center.

Part 2: Add the Topping and Bake

Make the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the remaining melted butter, the brown sugar, and the ground cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Brush the Rolls: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter and sugar mixture over the tops and into the cut centers of all the rolls, ensuring they are well coated.

Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. The sugar will caramelize, and the tops of the rolls will become golden and slightly crisp. Remove the dish from the oven and allow the rolls to cool in the pan for a few minutes.

Part 3: Prepare the Glaze and Cheesecake Filling

Make the Glaze: While the rolls are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and reaches a drizzle-able consistency. Set aside.

Prepare the Filling: If your no-bake cheesecake filling is in a tub, give it a good stir to ensure it’s smooth and creamy.

Part 4: Assemble and Serve

Fill the Centers: Once the rolls have cooled enough to handle (but are still warm), spoon about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the no-bake cheesecake filling into the well of each roll. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread it slightly if needed.

Glaze and Enjoy: Using a spoon or a small piping bag, generously drizzle the prepared glaze over the top of each filled roll. The glaze will cascade down the sides. Serve the danishes immediately while they are warm and the filling is creamy.