Name: Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 block (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened at room temperature; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons grated lemon peel (from 1 large lemon); 1 can (8 ounce) refrigerated crescent rolls or crescent dough sheets; 1 Tablespoon butter, melted; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2 to 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice; Fresh grated lemon peel for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

These rolls are incredibly easy to make and use simple, store-bought crescent dough for convenience. The lemon zest adds a burst of brightness that perfectly complements the smooth cream cheese filling. Whether you’re serving them for guests or enjoying them solo with a cup of coffee, they’re a fuss-free indulgence that looks and tastes bakery-worthy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 block (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
¼ cup granulated sugar
4 teaspoons grated lemon peel (from 1 large lemon)
1 can (8 ounce) refrigerated crescent rolls or crescent dough sheets
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Lemon Glaze Topping:

½ cup powdered sugar
2 to 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Fresh grated lemon peel for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and grated lemon peel using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Open the crescent rolls package, separate the dough into 8 individual triangles, and place them on a flat surface.
Add about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture to the widest end of each triangle, dividing evenly among all rolls.
Roll up each crescent starting from the wide end, tucking the pointy end underneath and pinching the seams closed. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush with melted butter and bake on the middle rack for 11–14 minutes, until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before transferring to a cooling rack.
While cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the crescent rolls.
Garnish with fresh lemon peel if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 rolls
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 39 minutes

Variations

Berry Twist: Add a few fresh blueberries or raspberries on top of the cream cheese filling before rolling.
Coconut Lemon: Sprinkle shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical touch.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough for a gluten-free version.
Extra Tang: Add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the filling for even more lemon flavor.
Mini Rolls: Cut the dough in half to make bite-sized crescent rolls for parties or kids’ snacks.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds until warmed through. Avoid overheating to preserve the flaky texture.

FAQs

How can I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Pinch the seams of the crescent dough tightly and tuck the ends underneath to help contain the filling.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate them unbaked, and bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest in the filling?

Lemon zest provides a more intense lemon flavor, but you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice if needed.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

You can use bottled lemon juice for the glaze and dried lemon zest or lemon extract for the filling.

Are these best served warm or cold?

They are best served warm for maximum flakiness and creamy texture, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but the filling may be slightly less rich and creamy than with full-fat cream cheese.

How do I keep the glaze from soaking into the rolls?

Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze to help it stay on top rather than absorbing.

Can I freeze these crescent rolls?

Yes, freeze baked and cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to one month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

What can I serve with these for brunch?

Serve with fresh fruit, coffee, or tea to complete a light and refreshing brunch spread.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and use two baking sheets if needed to ensure even baking.

Conclusion

Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are the ideal treat when you want something quick, sweet, and citrusy. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious pastry that tastes like it came from a bakery. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack, these rolls are sure to brighten your day.