Introduction
These Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the creamy goodness of cream cheese, all wrapped up in buttery crescent roll dough. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat any time of the day.
Ingredients:
Refrigerated crescent roll dough: 225 grams
Cream cheese, softened: 113 grams
Sugar: 25 grams
Lemon zest: 5 grams
Lemon juice: 15 ml
Vanilla extract: 2.5 ml
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
8 rolls
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles.
4. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each triangle, covering up to the edges.
5. Starting from the wide end, roll up each triangle toward the point. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring that the point is tucked underneath.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). This step is crucial as it ensures that your Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls will bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula or whisk to mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The blend of flavors will awaken your senses with a delightful aroma.
3. Unroll the Crescent Roll Dough
Carefully unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough. Gently separate the dough into individual triangles, being careful not to tear them. The dough should feel soft and pliable, ready to be transformed into delicious treats.
4. Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Take a small amount of the cream cheese mixture and spread it onto each triangle of dough, covering it generously but ensuring not to go over the edges. This will create a luscious filling that oozes flavor with every bite.
5. Roll the Dough
Starting from the wide end of each triangle, roll the dough up towards the point. Roll them snugly but not too tight, allowing them to expand while baking. After rolling, place each crescent roll on the prepared baking sheet with the point tucked underneath to prevent them from unraveling in the oven.
6. Bake the Rolls
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to turn a lovely golden brown. The sound of baking will fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent.
7. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. They will be warm and inviting, ready to be enjoyed as a delightful treat.
Notes
Storage
These Crescent Rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their warmth.
Ingredient Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the lemon zest and juice to your taste preference for more or less tanginess. For an added twist, consider mixing in a pinch of powdered sugar into the cream cheese filling.
Serving Ideas
These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast. They can also be served as a sweet snack at any time of day. Consider drizzling a light glaze over them for an extra touch of sweetness.
Cook Techniques
Prepping the Dough
Ensure that the crescent roll dough is kept chilled until you are ready to use it. This helps maintain the flaky texture during baking.
Mixing the Filling
When mixing the cream cheese filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy blending. Use a hand mixer or whisk to achieve a smooth consistency.
Spreading the Filling
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on each triangle, but be careful not to overfill to avoid spillage while rolling.
Rolling Technique
Start at the wide end of the triangle and roll gently towards the point, making sure to keep the filling inside. Tuck the point of the roll underneath for a neat presentation.
Baking Precision
Monitor the rolls closely during the last few minutes of baking. They should be golden brown; adjust your oven time if needed for even browning.
Cooling
Let the rolls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and enhances their texture.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls ahead of time. Just refrigerate them before baking and add a few extra minutes to the bake time if you’re baking them straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with a ricotta cheese or mascarpone for a different flavor, but the texture will be slightly different.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshness.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adjusting the baking time as necessary.
What flavors can I add to the filling?
Feel free to experiment! You can add cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a swirl of fruit preserves for additional flavor variations.
Conclusion
The Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a scrumptious way to enjoy the bright and zesty flavor of lemon paired with the rich creaminess of cream cheese, all enveloped in flaky crescent roll dough. These delightful rolls are not only easy to make but also perfect for brightening up your breakfast or serving as a sweet snack throughout the day.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Berry Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Try replacing the lemon with a mixture of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist on this recipe.
Chocolate Hazelnut Crescent Rolls
Spread chocolate hazelnut spread over the crescent rolls before rolling them up for a rich and indulgent treat.
Cinnamon Sugar Crescent Rolls
Combine cream cheese with cinnamon and sugar for a warm, sweet filling that’s perfect for a cozy morning.
Maple Pecan Crescent Rolls
Add chopped pecans and a touch of maple syrup to your cream cheese mixture for a delicious fall-inspired flavor.
Apple Cinnamon Crescent Rolls
Incorporate diced apples and cinnamon into your cream cheese filling for a delightful dessert reminiscent of apple pie.
Nutella and Banana Crescent Rolls
Spread Nutella and add banana slices for a decadent and banana-chocolate flavor profile.