These Lemon Custard Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are a sweet, flaky treat that looks impressive but takes just minutes to make. With a creamy lemon-cheesecake filling wrapped in buttery puff pastry and finished with a zesty glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a quick dessert.
Light, golden, and bursting with bright citrus flavor—these rolls are a crowd favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥐 Flaky Perfection: The crescent roll dough bakes up light and crisp around the edges.
- 🧀 Cheesecake Meets Lemon: A smooth, tangy lemon custard and cream cheese blend gives rich, satisfying flavor.
- ⏱️ Ready in Minutes: No mixing bowl? No problem—just a spoon and a bowl and you’re set.
- 🍋 Bright & Refreshing: Zesty lemon adds a burst of freshness to every bite.
- 🎉 Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, brunch gatherings, or morning coffee treats.
Ingredients (Makes 8 rolls):
For the Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese , softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1–2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dough:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust to taste and consistency)
Optional Garnish:
- Extra lemon zest
- Fresh mint leaves
- Edible flowers for an elegant touch
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat .
Step 2: Make the Lemon Custard Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add:
- Sugar
- Egg yolk
- Lemon zest
- Lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
Beat or stir until fully combined and smooth.
Set aside while you prepare the dough.
Step 3: Unroll and Prep the Crescent Roll Dough
Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Separate the dough along the perforations into individual triangles (you should get about 8).
Step 4: Fill and Roll
Place a small spoonful of the lemon cheesecake mixture at the wide end of each triangle.
Roll up gently from the wide end toward the point, keeping the filling tucked inside. Pinch the tip to seal if needed.
Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 12–15 minutes , or until golden brown and puffed.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before glazing.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the rolls are cooling, whisk together:
- Powdered sugar
- Lemon juice , 1–2 tablespoons at a time, until you reach a drizzle-able consistency.
Adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more powdered sugar or juice to taste.
Step 7: Glaze and Garnish
Once the rolls are cool enough to handle (but still warm), drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top.
If using, garnish with extra lemon zest or a few fresh mint leaves for a beautiful finish.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Serve warm or at room temperature—these are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum flakiness.
Perfect with a cup of tea, coffee, or alongside fruit salad for a brunch centerpiece.
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
- 🔪 Seal Well: Press the seams firmly to keep the filling inside during baking.
- 🥣 Make Ahead Option: Assemble unbaked rolls, freeze flat, then bake straight from frozen (add 2–3 minutes to baking time).
- 🧁 Glaze Timing: Wait until the rolls have cooled slightly before applying the glaze to prevent melting it too fast.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with black tea, herbal infusions, or a latte.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a second layer of sweetness.
- Serve with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for extra indulgence.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~10g
These Lemon Custard Cheesecake Crescent Rolls bring restaurant-style pastries into your home kitchen—with minimal effort and maximum flavor. They’re buttery, creamy, and zesty—everything you want in a handheld treat.
Try them once and they’ll become a regular part of your baking routine!
