Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

If you love desserts that are equal parts easy and show-stopping, get ready to fall for Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls. With their flaky golden exterior, lusciously creamy lemon cheesecake filling, and tangy-sweet drizzle, these rolls will have everyone asking for your secret. Whether you need a quick treat, a sunny brunch centerpiece, or a dreamy dessert, Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls pack all the citrusy charm and cheesecake comfort you crave — and come together with a handful of ingredients and hardly any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple but relies on high-impact ingredients for unforgettable flavor and irresistible texture. Each element has a job to do, whether it’s adding creaminess, tang, or golden color. Don’t skip or substitute lightly—every single ingredient elevates your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls.

• Cream Cheese: The heart of the filling, lending velvety richness and that classic cheesecake flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly, balancing the tartness of lemon and tang of cream cheese.
• Grated Lemon Peel: Adds zesty freshness and bold citrus flavor in both the filling and glaze.
• Refrigerated Crescent Rolls: These make the process delightfully quick—no kneading or rising needed!
• Butter: Brushed on top for golden color and that irresistible bakery-style finish.
• Powdered Sugar: Gives the glaze its smooth, sweet character.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: For the glaze, lending bright tartness to contrast the sweet, creamy filling.
• Additional Grated Lemon Peel (optional): For an extra eye-catching, aromatic finish as a garnish.

How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; it’ll prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Set your cream cheese out ahead of time to let it reach room temperature, which ensures a smooth, easily spreadable filling. Zest your lemon now, too—it makes assembling Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls quick and mess-free.

Step 2: Mix the Luscious Lemon Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and grated lemon peel. Use an electric mixer set to medium speed and beat until everything is creamy and unified. The lemon zest infuses the mixture with bright, fresh notes, transforming the classic cheesecake base into something singingly citrusy.

Step 3: Assemble the Crescent Rolls

Pop open that can of refrigerated crescent rolls and, with care, separate the dough into 8 triangles. Lay them flat on a clean surface such as a cutting board. Dollop about 2 tablespoons of the lemon cream cheese mixture onto the wide end of each triangle; divide the filling evenly so every roll is generously stuffed. This step is where Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls get their signature oozy, creamy center.

Step 4: Roll and Seal

Working with one crescent at a time, gently roll it up starting from the wide end topped with filling. Tuck the pointy tip underneath, and pinch any seams closed so the filling stays nestled inside while baking. Arrange the filled rolls evenly on your prepared baking sheet, giving them a little room to expand and brown up beautifully.

Step 5: Butter and Bake

Brush the tops of your crescent rolls with melted butter. This step is pure magic, creating that shiny, golden finish everyone loves. Bake on the middle oven rack for 11 to 14 minutes, watching for the moment they turn gorgeously golden brown—your kitchen will smell like a dream.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Pull the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few moments on the tray before transferring to a cooling rack. Meanwhile, make the quick lemon glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice (start with 2 teaspoons and add a drop more if needed to reach a drizzle-able consistency). Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls, letting it cascade over the swoops and creases. Just before serving, sprinkle with more fresh lemon peel for that Instagram-worthy finish!

How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Garnishes

Finish your Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls with a generous shower of finely grated lemon zest for an extra citrus punch and a pop of cheerful color. If you want to get fancy, add a few curls of lemon peel or even a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. These little touches amplify both the flavor and the presentation.

Side Dishes

While they’re perfect on their own, Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls pair beautifully with fresh berries, a fruit salad, or a side of thick Greek yogurt for a lovely brunch spread. A hot cup of tea or coffee enhances the rolls’ citrus and creaminess, turning a simple snack into a well-rounded treat or morning indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform a platter of Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls into a showstopper by stacking them into a pyramid or lining them up in a swirl for easy sharing. For parties, try slicing each roll in half and skewering with cocktail picks for sweet bite-sized treats. If making for a celebration, nestle edible flowers or mint leaves in between for a fresh, summery vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The chilled rolls make a delicious midweek treat, and the lemony filling stays creamy and vibrant.

Freezing

You can freeze Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls for longer storage. Once cooled completely, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving.

Reheating

For that just-baked taste, pop the rolls into a 300 degree F oven for about 5 minutes, or heat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. If reheated in the oven, you’ll recapture some of that delightful flakiness on the outside while keeping the filling smooth and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls?

Absolutely, though full-fat cream cheese gives the richest, creamiest result. Low-fat versions will work but might yield a filling that’s a bit less velvety and tangy.

Can I make these ahead for brunch guests?

Yes! You can prepare and fill the rolls, cover them tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking. Glaze them fresh after baking for the best flavor and texture.

Is it possible to use crescent dough sheets instead of pre-cut rolls?

Crescent dough sheets work perfectly. Just cut the sheet into eight triangles before filling, rolling, and baking as directed—you’ll get the same fantastic results.

How do I zest a lemon for the filling?

Use a microplane or fine grater to scrape off just the yellow zest from a well-washed lemon, avoiding the white pith underneath, which can taste bitter. Fresh zest gives the most vibrant flavor.

Can I add fruit or other flavorings to the filling?

Definitely! Try folding in a few mashed raspberries, blueberries, or even a touch of vanilla extract to the cheesecake mixture for a fun twist. Just be sure not to overfill, as too much moisture can seep out during baking.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are truly one of those treats you’ll crave again and again. They’re simple to make, packed with bright flavor, and guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone who tries them. I hope you find as much joy in baking (and sharing!) these as I do—give them a go, and let your kitchen fill up with that incredible lemony aroma.

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