Imagine biting into a warm, flaky crescent roll, the buttery layers melting in your mouth, revealing a luscious cream cheese filling infused with zesty lemon. The sweet-tart aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in this delightful treat. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy and citrusy goodness, with a hint of vanilla that dances on your taste buds. These Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are not just a dessert; they’re a hug in pastry form, perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. You won’t be able to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love the zesty lemon flavor!
- This one’s a game-changer for brunch or dessert.
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- Perfectly creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
- Impress your friends and family with minimal effort!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients
Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough – a flaky base that wraps around the creamy filling.
Cream Cheese – adds a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Granulated Sugar – sweetens the filling and balances the tartness of lemon.
Lemon Zest – infuses a bright, citrusy flavor that elevates the rolls.
Lemon Juice – enhances the lemon flavor and adds a refreshing tang.
Vanilla Extract – adds depth and warmth to the filling.
Powdered Sugar – perfect for a sweet glaze on top.
Butter – brushed on before baking for a golden, crispy finish.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to create some delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect all your ingredients: crescent roll dough, cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your rolls are ready to bake.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Open the crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it on a clean surface. Separate the triangles.
Step 5: Add the Filling
Place a generous spoonful of the lemon cream cheese mixture on the wide end of each triangle.
Step 6: Roll Them Up
Starting from the wide end, roll the dough towards the pointed end. Pinch the edges to seal the filling inside.
Step 7: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Place the rolled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and deliciously puffed up.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
Let the rolls cool slightly. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of lemon juice to create a glaze, then drizzle it over the warm rolls.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Serve your Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
- Experiment with fresh lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
- Brush the rolls with melted butter before baking for a golden finish.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture experience.
- Pair with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
How to Serve
- Drizzle with a light lemon glaze for extra sweetness.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Pair with fresh berries for a colorful plate.
- Enjoy alongside a cup of herbal tea for a cozy treat.
- Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Serve as a delightful brunch item with fruit salad.
- Offer with a side of yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Include in a dessert platter with assorted pastries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls fresh:
- Allow them to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods.
Freezing
For longer storage, follow these steps:
- Cool the rolls completely.
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your rolls again:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place rolls on a baking sheet.
- Cover with foil to prevent browning.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
FAQs
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Both alternatives provide a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. Bake them fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast treat!
How do I store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.
Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls?
Yes, these rolls freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
There you have it Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls that are as delightful as they are easy to make! Picture yourself enjoying these warm, zesty treats with loved ones, sharing smiles and sweet moments. It’s a simple recipe that brings a burst of sunshine to any day. So, roll up your sleeves, whip up this deliciousness, and savor every bite. Happy baking, friend!
Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl For preparing the filling.
- 1 Baking Sheet For baking the rolls.
- 1 Parchment Paper To line the baking sheet.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 package Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough A flaky base that wraps around the creamy filling.
Filling
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Adds a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the filling and balances the tartness of lemon.
- 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Infuses a bright, citrusy flavor that elevates the rolls.
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Enhances the lemon flavor and adds a refreshing tang.
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Adds depth and warmth to the filling.
- 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar Perfect for a sweet glaze on top.
- 2 tbsp Butter Brushed on before baking for a golden, crispy finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Get ready to create some delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect all your ingredients: crescent roll dough, cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your rolls are ready to bake.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
- Open the crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it on a clean surface. Separate the triangles.
Step 5: Add the Filling
- Place a generous spoonful of the lemon cream cheese mixture on the wide end of each triangle.
Step 6: Roll Them Up
- Starting from the wide end, roll the dough towards the pointed end. Pinch the edges to seal the filling inside.
Step 7: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
- Place the rolled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and deliciously puffed up.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
- Let the rolls cool slightly. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of lemon juice to create a glaze, then drizzle it over the warm rolls.
Step 10: Enjoy!
- Serve your Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!