Name: Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 package of King Hawaiian sweet rolls; 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 can 8 oz crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup strawberries sliced; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 –2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

This Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish is everything I crave in a sweet brunch dish—soft, creamy, tropical, and beautiful enough to impress guests.

It’s a shortcut pastry made with King’s Hawaiian rolls, cheesecake filling, and a fruity glaze that will make everyone think you worked much harder than you did.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the flavors of cheesecake and Danish in one easy bake

Uses soft, buttery King Hawaiian rolls as a shortcut base

Layers of sweetened cream cheese, pineapple, and strawberries

Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or holiday mornings

Ready in under an hour!

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

King Hawaiian sweet rolls – the soft, slightly sweet base

Cream cheese – for that rich cheesecake filling

Sugar & vanilla – to sweeten the filling

Egg – helps the filling set like cheesecake

Crushed pineapple – for tropical freshness

Strawberries – juicy topping contrast

Powdered sugar glaze – drizzled on top while warm

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth blending

Drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid soggy rolls

Line your baking dish with parchment or grease well

Glaze the rolls while still warm so it soaks in slightly

How to Make Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Bake

Step 1: Prep the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Slice the sweet rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom layer in a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Make Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom layer of rolls.

Step 3: Add Pineapple and Top Layer

Sprinkle drained crushed pineapple over the cream cheese.

Add the top layer of rolls and gently press down.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.

Let cool slightly in the pan.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.

Adjust milk to reach drizzle consistency.

Drizzle glaze over the warm Danish.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh strawberry slices and extra pineapple if desired.

Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve It With

Hot coffee or a vanilla latte

Scrambled eggs or sausage for contrast

A mimosa for brunch perfection

Variations / Substitutions

Swap strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or mango

Add shredded coconut for more tropical flair

Try it with cinnamon rolls for a spiced version

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store covered for up to 3 days

Freezer: Freeze baked and cooled Danish in slices for up to 1 month

Reheat: Warm in oven at 300°F or microwave for 20 seconds

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the night before and bake in the morning.

Can I use homemade sweet rolls?

Absolutely! Just make sure they’re baked and cooled first.

Does this taste like cheesecake?

Yes! The filling is lightly sweet, creamy, and sets like a baked cheesecake.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?

Yes, because of the cream cheese filling.

Can I double the recipe?

Totally. Use a larger pan and add 5–10 minutes to baking time.

What if I don’t like pineapple?

Substitute with apple compote, cherry pie filling, or just more berries.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish Bake is the kind of recipe that disappears fast.

It’s soft, creamy, fruity, and full of sunshine in every bite.

Great for brunch or anytime you want to wow your family with something easy and gorgeous.