If you’re searching for a bright, flavorful treat that’s as simple as it is delicious, this Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture soft, flaky crescent dough hugging a rich, tangy lemon cream cheese filling, all topped off with a zesty lemon glaze that makes every bite sing with freshness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these rolls bring sunshine to your plate with minimal fuss and maximum joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully for a perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and buttery flavors. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the delightful texture and taste you’ll love.
- Crescent roll dough: The buttery, flaky foundation that bakes up golden and tender every time.
- Cream cheese (softened): Provides a smooth, rich filling that contrasts perfectly with the citrus notes.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the lemon’s tartness.
- Lemon zest: Infuses the dish with bright, fresh lemon oils for a punch of citrus aroma.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brings tangy brightness that lifts all the flavors.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the filling with a subtle warmth and depth.
- Powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweetens and thickens the lemon glaze for that perfect finishing touch.
- Additional lemon juice and zest (for glaze): Keeps the glaze vibrant and flavorful, echoing the filling’s essence.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your crescent rolls will bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is the heart of the Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe, delivering that dreamy balance of tang and sweetness in every bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Unroll the crescent dough and carefully separate it into 8 triangles. Spoon about one tablespoon of the lemon cream cheese mixture into the center of each triangle. Take your time here, so each roll has the right amount of filling without any spills.
Step 4: Roll and Place on the Baking Sheet
Starting at the wide edge, gently roll up each triangle into a crescent shape, sealing in the filling as you go. Place the rolls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to allow for puffing and browning.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls have a beautiful golden hue and have puffed up delightfully. That golden crust is your cue that the rolls are perfectly baked and ready for the next step.
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until silky and smooth. This glaze will add an irresistible sweet and tangy finish to your Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once the rolls come out of the oven, let them cool slightly for about five minutes. Then generously drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls so it melts into every nook, enhancing the flavor with a glossy shine. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or finely chopped fresh mint leaves over the glazed rolls to elevate their appearance and add a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also give a lovely, delicate touch.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, freshly brewed tea, or a chilled glass of orange juice. For a fuller brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salads or a savory quiche to balance the lemony sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange the rolls on a decorative serving platter lined with edible flowers or lemon slices. Alternatively, serve them in a warm bread basket with a small bowl of extra glaze on the side for dipping. These little details can make the appetizer table shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but this keeps them soft without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked assembled rolls (before baking). Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rolls in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough tough and chewy rather than flaky and tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen crescent dough for this Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe?
Yes! Frozen crescent roll dough works perfectly. Just thaw it according to package instructions before assembling the rolls to ensure easy handling and even baking.
Is it possible to make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the lemon cream cheese filling a day in advance and keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spreading for easier handling.
What can I substitute for fresh lemon juice if I don’t have any?
If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always preferred for the brightest flavor. You can also experiment with lime juice for a different citrus twist.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking while baking?
Make sure not to overfill the crescent dough triangles and seal the edges well when rolling. If the dough tears, pinch it together gently to avoid spills during baking.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese and a vegan crescent dough alternative. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but the vibrant lemon flavor will still shine through beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe, I promise it will become a beloved part of your recipe collection. Its perfect blend of flaky, creamy, and zesty elements makes it an irresistible treat for any time of day. Don’t hesitate to whip these up for your next gathering or casual breakfast — they’re sure to bring smiles all around!
Print
Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls are a delightful treat combining flaky, buttery crescent roll dough with a tangy and creamy lemon-infused filling. Topped with a zesty lemon glaze, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus brightness—ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a light dessert.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
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
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 prepare for baking the rolls.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Shape Rolls: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the lemon cream cheese mixture onto the center of each triangle.
- Roll Dough: Carefully roll up each dough triangle starting from the wide edge toward the point, forming crescent shapes. Place each roll on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for expansion.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the crescent rolls in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and puff up nicely.
- Prepare Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth to create a bright lemon glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: After removing the rolls from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately to enjoy their fresh citrus flavor and creamy texture.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth filling.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor in both the filling and glaze.
- If desired, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top after glazing for extra sweetness and presentation.
- Serve these rolls warm for the best taste and texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
