Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

Fluffy Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe to Brighten Your Day

Whipping up a delectable lemon cheesecake crescent rolls treat promises pure culinary magic.

Sweet aromas will soon dance through your kitchen.

Creamy filling nestled inside buttery pastry creates an irresistible combination.

Soft, flaky layers melt effortlessly with tangy citrus notes.

Simple ingredients transform ordinary moments into delightful celebrations.

One bite guarantees smiles and satisfied taste buds.

Savor each delicious morsel and let this recipe become your new favorite dessert adventure.

Why Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Are A Dreamy Treat

  • Conquer Quick Prep: No complex techniques or advanced skills needed, making this recipe perfect for bakers of all levels.
  • Burst with Citrus Delight: Zesty lemon filling creates a refreshing twist that transforms ordinary crescent rolls into a spectacular treat.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Soft, buttery pastry combined with tangy cream cheese delivers a universally loved dessert that satisfies everyone from kids to adults.
  • Versatile Serving Option: Ideal for breakfast gatherings, brunch parties, afternoon snacks, or as a sweet ending to any meal without requiring extensive planning.

What’s Inside Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

For the Pastry Base:
  • Crescent Roll Dough: A versatile, pre-made pastry that provides a flaky and light foundation for the lemon cream cheese filling.
For the Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: A rich and creamy ingredient that creates a smooth, tangy base for the dessert.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor and helps balance the richness of the cream cheese.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps enhance the overall taste of the filling.
  • Lemon Zest: Delivers an intense, aromatic citrus flavor and adds small bursts of lemon essence.
For the Topping and Finishing:
  • Melted Butter: Helps create a golden, crisp exterior and adds richness to the pastry.
  • Powdered Sugar: Forms the base of the glaze, providing sweetness and a smooth texture.
  • Lemon Juice: Thins the glaze and adds a tangy flavor to the topping.
  • Lemon Zest: Gives an extra pop of citrus flavor to the glaze.

How To Make Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and smooth baking.

Step 2: Prepare The Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently separate each triangle, creating a clean workspace for filling.

Step 3: Create Creamy Filling

In a mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until it becomes super smooth and free of any lumpy bits.

Step 4: Add Zesty Flavors

Mix in these ingredients to create a delicious filling:
  • Lemon juice
  • Sugar
  • Lemon zest

Stir until the mixture is fully blended and wonderfully fragrant.

Step 5: Spread The Goodness

Distribute the zesty cream cheese mixture evenly across each crescent dough triangle, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 6: Roll With Style

Starting from the wide end, carefully roll each triangle toward the point, making sure the filling stays tucked inside the pastry.

Step 7: Butter It Up

Brush the rolled crescents with melted butter to help create a gorgeous golden exterior.

Step 8: Arrange For Baking

Place the filled crescents on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a bit of breathing room for even baking.

Step 9: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 11-13 minutes. Watch for a rich golden brown color and a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 10: Cool Down Briefly

Remove from the oven and let the crescents rest for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.

Step 11: Whip Up The Glaze

Create a silky glaze by whisking together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest

Stir until smooth and perfectly drizzle-able.

Step 12: Drizzle With Delight

Pour the lemon glaze over the warm crescent rolls, letting it cascade beautifully down the sides.

Step 13: Serve And Enjoy

Dive in immediately while the crescents are still warm for the most incredible taste and texture experience.

Smart Tips For Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

  • Soften Cream Cheese Perfectly: Leave cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes before whipping to achieve a smoother, lump-free mixture.
  • Prevent Dough Sticking: Lightly dust your work surface with flour to make handling crescent roll dough easier and prevent tearing.
  • Seal Filling Securely: Pinch the edges of each crescent triangle when rolling to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
  • Control Glaze Consistency: Add powdered sugar or lemon juice gradually to achieve the ideal drizzling thickness for your lemon glaze.
  • Enhance Flavor Variation: Experiment with orange or lime zest instead of lemon for a different citrusy twist on the classic recipe.

Flavor Swaps For Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

  • Berry Bliss Crescents: Swap lemon for mixed berry compote in the filling, using raspberry or strawberry preserves for a fruity burst.
  • Tropical Paradise Rolls: Replace lemon zest with orange zest and fold in shredded coconut for a vacation-inspired pastry.
  • Cheesecake Chocolate Crescents: Mix melted chocolate into cream cheese filling and sprinkle mini chocolate chips before rolling.
  • Savory Herb Variation: Omit sugar, add herbs like chives and thyme to cream cheese, and top with grated parmesan for a savory alternative.

Perfect Pairings For Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

  • Pair with Citrus-Infused Refreshments
  • Serve alongside chilled lemonade or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the lemon's bright, tangy notes and enhance the pastry's creamy sweetness.
  • Recommend Complementary Breakfast Companions
  • Match these lemon cream cheese crescents with fresh mixed berries or a light yogurt parfait to balance the rich, buttery pastry and add a refreshing morning contrast.
  • Create Perfect Morning Texture Harmony
  • Accompany with a light, airy cappuccino or Earl Grey tea to cut through the pastry's richness and provide a subtle, sophisticated flavor counterpoint.

How To Keep Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Fresh

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual crescent rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for later enjoyment.
  • Warm refrigerated rolls at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to maintain pastry's flaky texture.
  • If glaze has hardened, gently warm rolls in oven, then drizzle fresh glaze just before serving to revive their delectable appearance.

Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Questions Answered

  • What type of dough works best for this recipe?

Crescent roll dough is perfect because it’s pre-made, easy to handle, and creates a flaky, tender pastry that complements the creamy lemon filling.

  • How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Leave a small border around the edges when spreading the cream cheese mixture and roll the dough carefully, ensuring a tight seal to keep the filling inside the crescents.

  • Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the filled crescents and refrigerate them before baking. Just add 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Lemon cheesecake crescent rolls blend zesty citrus with creamy comfort in a delightful pastry fusion. Buttery crescents wrap around tangy filling, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tart that delights taste buds and satisfies dessert cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Pastry:

  • 1 package crescent roll dough
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) butter, melted

Filling:

  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Topping:

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick baking.
  2. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into individual triangles, creating a smooth surface for filling.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese until smooth and creamy, eliminating any lumps for a silky texture.
  4. Incorporate lemon juice, sugar, and lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture, stirring until fully blended and fragrant.
  5. Spread an even layer of the zesty cream cheese filling onto each crescent dough triangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
  6. Carefully roll each triangle from the wide end to the point, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed within the pastry.
  7. Brush the rolled crescents with melted butter, which will help create a golden, crisp exterior during baking.
  8. Arrange the filled crescents on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even heat circulation.
  9. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the pastries turn a rich, golden brown and emit a tantalizing aroma.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
  11. Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and drizzling consistency.
  12. Generously drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm crescent rolls, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
  13. Serve immediately while warm for the most delightful texture and flavor experience.

Notes

  • Softly whip cream cheese at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Zest lemons before juicing to maximize flavor extraction and ensure bright, vibrant citrus notes.
  • Choose full-fat cream cheese for richer, more indulgent filling that holds its shape during baking.
  • Seal crescent roll edges carefully to prevent filling from leaking during the baking process.
  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese and use reduced-fat crescent rolls.
  • Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top of the glaze for an intense, fresh citrus punch.
  • Allow rolls to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the sugar from becoming too runny.
  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to maintain crispy texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 290 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star