Name: Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated crescent roll dough; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional for brushing); Powdered sugar for dusting

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If you’re craving a dessert that’s bright, creamy, and just plain fun to make, Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are about to become your new go-to treat. Imagine golden, flaky crescent rolls wrapped around a luscious lemon cheesecake filling—each bite delivers a burst of citrus and the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for a brunch spread, making Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls a versatile favorite for any occasion.

Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of pantry and fridge staples, you can whip up these Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in no time. Every ingredient has its own special role to play, ensuring the end result is as irresistible as it sounds—so don’t skip a thing!

Crescent roll dough: The secret shortcut to flaky, golden perfection without any fuss.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling its rich, creamy cheesecake texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tang of lemon.
Lemon zest: Adds intense citrus aroma and flecks of color to each bite.
Fresh lemon juice: Brings a punchy, fresh lemon flavor to the cheesecake filling.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds a bakery-style warmth.
Melted butter (optional): Brushing the tops gives a glossy, golden finish and a touch of richness.
Powdered sugar: A delicate dusting for a pretty finish and extra sweetness.

How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only ensures the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls won’t stick, but also makes cleanup a breeze—one less thing to worry about when you’re ready to dig in!

Step 2: Make the Lemon Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens: the blend of tangy lemon and silky cream cheese sets these crescent rolls apart from any ordinary dessert.

Step 3: Fill and Roll

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Spoon about one tablespoon of the luscious lemon cheesecake filling onto the wide end of each triangle. Starting at that end, roll up each triangle snugly toward the point, encasing the filling inside a flaky pastry cocoon.

Step 4: Prep for Baking

Arrange your filled rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they have room to puff up. If you want an extra touch of indulgence, brush the tops with a little melted butter—this step is optional, but it gives the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls an extra golden glow and a hint of richness.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are beautifully golden and slightly crisp on top. The aroma of sweet lemon and buttery pastry will fill your kitchen—try not to swoon!

Step 6: Dust and Serve

Let the rolls cool for a couple of minutes. Then, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish. The contrast of warm, tangy filling and sweet, snowy sugar is pure dessert bliss.

How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle a bit more fresh lemon zest over your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls just before serving. You can also drizzle them with a quick lemon glaze (just whisk powdered sugar with a splash of lemon juice) for even more citrusy flair.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a simple fruit salad—something light and bright to complement their creamy richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can turn them into a showstopping dessert plate!

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a pretty platter and dust with powdered sugar for a brunch centerpiece. For a special touch, add edible flowers or thin lemon slices. If you’re serving at a party, cut each roll in half and skewer with decorative picks for easy, bite-sized treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls left (which is a big “if”), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The filling stays creamy and delicious, and the pastry remains tender.

Freezing

To freeze, place the completely cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to one month—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste, warm the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, but the oven method keeps the pastry crispier.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the brightest, most authentic flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work. Just be aware that the flavor may not be quite as vibrant.

Can I make these ahead for a brunch or party?

Absolutely! Prepare the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours. When you’re ready, bake them fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Can I add fruit to the filling?

Yes! A few blueberries or raspberries tucked inside each roll are delicious and add a burst of color. Just don’t overfill, or the rolls may not seal properly.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can substitute your favorite dairy-free cream cheese and use a plant-based crescent dough. The flavor will be a little different, but you’ll still have a tasty treat.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater, taking only the yellow skin and avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. It’s the best way to get pure, fragrant zest for the Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are a burst of sunshine in every bite. They’re simple, satisfying, and sure to delight. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert!

Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

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4.9 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 8 crescent rolls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightfully tangy and creamy, these Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls combine the flaky texture of crescent dough with a luscious lemon-flavored cream cheese filling. Perfect as an easy dessert or a sweet brunch treat, they bake to golden perfection and are dusted with powdered sugar for a stunning finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Crescent Rolls

1 (8 oz) can refrigerated crescent roll dough

Filling

4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Finishing

1 tablespoon melted butter (optional for brushing)
Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a tangy cheesecake filling.
Roll Dough: Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles, laying them flat on a clean surface.
Fill Rolls: Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the lemon cheesecake filling onto the wide end of each dough triangle, spreading slightly but keeping a margin to avoid overflow during baking.
Shape Rolls: Starting from the wide end, gently roll each triangle toward the pointed end, enclosing the filling inside to form crescent-shaped rolls.
Prepare for Baking: Place the filled rolls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Brush the tops with melted butter if desired for a richer flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown on top.
Cool and Serve: Allow the crescent rolls to cool slightly on a wire rack. Before serving, dust them generously with powdered sugar for an appealing, sweet finish.

Notes

For an extra burst of lemon flavor, drizzle the cooled rolls with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
These rolls are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature without losing their delightful flavor.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best bright citrus taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American