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If you are looking for a bright, fresh twist on a classic treat, this Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining flaky, buttery crescent roll dough with a luscious, tangy lemon cream cheese filling, these rolls are bursting with flavor and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dessert. The delightful balance between the zesty lemon and creamy filling creates an irresistible bite that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is both straightforward and rewarding to make, promising a delicious experience every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are beautifully simple but essential to crafting the perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe. Each component plays a key role in delivering the flaky texture, creamy filling, and bright citrus notes that make this dish so memorable.
- Crescent roll dough (1 package, 8 oz): The buttery, flaky base that wraps around the luscious filling and bakes beautifully golden and light.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds rich creaminess and a smooth texture that contrasts perfectly with the citrus zing.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the filling without overpowering the fresh lemon flavor.
- Lemon zest (1 tbsp for filling, 1/2 tsp for glaze): Delivers that vibrant, aromatic punch that awakens the palate.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp for filling, 1 tbsp for glaze): Gives the rolls their bright citrus tang and balances the creaminess beautifully.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle warmth and depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup for glaze): Creates the delicate sweet glaze that finishes off these rolls with a lovely shimmer and extra sweetness.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the rolls don’t stick and to make cleanup a breeze—this simple prep step is key to achieving perfectly golden rolls.
Step 2: Mix the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is silky smooth and completely blended. This creamy filling will be the star of your Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe with its fresh, tangy flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently separate it into 8 distinct triangles. On each triangle, spread about 1 tablespoon of the luscious lemon cream cheese mixture right in the center. This step ensures even distribution and perfect pockets of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Roll Up the Crescent Rolls
Starting from the wide edge of each triangle, carefully roll the dough towards the point to form those classic crescent shapes. Place each roll on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little room between each because they’ll puff up beautifully while baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Pop your tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls have that irresistible golden-brown hue and a light, puffy appearance. The smell alone will have you eagerly anticipating a warm, fresh treat.
Step 6: Make the Lemon Glaze
While your rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth and glossy. This glaze adds the perfect finishing touch to your Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe by balancing sweetness and tartness beautifully.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Once the rolls come out of the oven, give them about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Then drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top. Serve them warm for that melt-in-your-mouth experience that makes this Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe so unforgettable.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh lemon zest or a few edible flowers add a charming burst of color and freshness that makes these rolls look as delightful as they taste. A light dusting of powdered sugar is also a lovely touch for a subtle snowy finish.
Side Dishes
Pair your lemon rolls with fresh fruit like berries or a simple green salad to balance out the richness with some crispness. For brunch, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea will complement the citrusy notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the rolls on a rustic wooden board or a brightly colored platter to highlight their golden glow. You could also arrange them in a circular pattern for a stunning centerpiece that invites sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any rolls left (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh enough for a quick snack or a sweet breakfast treat.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked crescent rolls filled with the lemon cream cheese mixture. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time, for fresh-baked goodness anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftover rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain that fresh-baked warmth and crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough chewy instead of flaky.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of softened?
Yes, just make sure to soften the cream cheese first by letting it sit at room temperature or microwaving it for a few seconds. This ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
While fresh lemons give the best zest and juice flavor, you can substitute with bottled lemon juice and dried lemon zest in smaller amounts, but fresh always elevates the rolls beautifully.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
You can experiment with vegan crescent rolls and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives. Just check ingredient labels carefully, and the taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
Why do the rolls need to cool before glazing?
Cooling slightly prevents the glaze from melting into the rolls completely, allowing it to set nicely on top and add that pretty, glossy finish.
Are these rolls suitable for serving at parties?
Absolutely! Their appealing look and fresh flavor make them perfect finger foods or sweet bites for showers, brunches, or casual get-togethers.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe is a delightful mix of simple ingredients transformed into a show-stopping treat. Easy to make yet incredibly satisfying, these rolls perfectly balance tangy lemon, creamy filling, and flaky dough to brighten up any day. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll love how effortlessly it impresses family and friends alike with its fresh and cozy charm.
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Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent rolls 1x
Description
These Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a delightful blend of tangy lemon and smooth cream cheese wrapped in flaky, buttery crescent dough. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dessert, these rolls bake up golden and are topped with a luscious lemon glaze for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Ingredients
Crescent Rolls
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
Lemon Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Lemon Glaze
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a tangy and sweet filling.
- Prepare Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into eight individual triangles, ready for filling and rolling.
- Fill and Roll: Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the lemon cream cheese mixture onto the center of each dough triangle. Carefully roll each triangle starting from the wide edge towards the point to form crescent rolls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet ensuring space between each roll for expansion.
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and puffed up, indicating they are fully cooked and flaky.
- Make Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Drizzle the lemon glaze over each roll before serving to add a bright and sweet finishing touch. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Adjust the lemon zest and juice amounts to your taste for a more or less tangy flavor.
- The rolls are best served warm but can be reheated gently before serving.
- You can substitute store-bought crescent roll dough with homemade dough for a more artisanal result.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
