Name: Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 can (8-count) refrigerated crescent rolls; 4 oz cream cheese (fully softened); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/2 tsp lemon extract; 1 full lemon (zest of); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/2 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp milk or cream ((for thickness))

Introduction to Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Looking for a delightful homemade treat that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious? Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls might just be your new favorite recipe! They boast a flaky, golden exterior, and the combination of rich cream cheese with bright, zesty lemon filling is a match made in culinary heaven. With only a handful of ingredients, these crescent rolls allow you to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Not only are these rolls frosted with a luscious lemon glaze that adds a sweet finish, but they also come together in under 30 minutes. Ideal for brunches, snacks, or even a quick dessert, these crescent rolls will brighten up any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual coffee morning or looking to satisfy a sweet tooth after dinner, they offer that “wow” factor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Plus, lemon is known for its fresh, uplifting scent – perfect for that instant burst of summer in any season! Ready to embrace the joy of baking? Dive into this easy recipe and enjoy the scrumptious flavors of Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls!

Ingredients for Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Creating delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls is a delightful way to elevate your dessert game. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this irresistible treat!

Essential Ingredients

1 can (8-count) refrigerated crescent rolls: This forms the flaky outer layer.
4 oz cream cheese, fully softened: Opt for full-fat for a richer texture!
¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key to balancing the tangy lemon.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Fresh is best; it brightens the whole filling.
½ teaspoon lemon extract: This adds depth to your lemon flavor.
Zest of 1 full lemon: Don’t skip the zest; it enhances fragrance.
1 cup powdered sugar: Perfect for creating a luscious glaze.
2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: For that zesty glaze that melts in your mouth.
½ teaspoon lemon zest: A little more zest for the glaze!
1 tablespoon milk or cream: Adjust for thickness in your glaze.

With these simple yet vibrant ingredients, you'll be on your way to impressing friends and family. Consider adding a refreshing side, like a cup of herbal tea, to complement the flavors wonderfully. Want more tips on using fresh ingredients? Check out this comprehensive article on maximizing flavor with fresh produce!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Making Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls is a delightful way to brighten your day! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you whip up these delicious treats with ease.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into the fun of cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need. To create these delightful rolls, gather:

1 can (8-count) refrigerated crescent rolls
4 oz cream cheese, fully softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon lemon extract
Zest of 1 full lemon
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
½ teaspoon lemon zest (for glaze)
1 tablespoon milk or cream (for thickness)

Having your ingredients ready will streamline the process, making it a lot more enjoyable.

Preheat the Oven

Now, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is a crucial step that ensures your rolls bake evenly and come out easily—trust me, you don't want to be wrestling with stuck pastry!

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy—about five minutes should do the trick. Then, add in the fresh lemon juice, lemon extract, and lemon zest. This combination of flavors creates an irresistible filling. Blend until the mixture is thick and glossy, giving it a taste test to ensure it’s just right!

Unroll and Fill the Crescent Dough

Unroll your crescent dough carefully onto a clean surface. You’ll notice it’s shaped into triangles, which is perfect for our rolls! On the wide end of each triangle, place about one heaping tablespoon of your luscious lemon cream cheese filling. Be generous—after all, it's the star of the show!

Roll, Tuck, and Place on the Baking Sheet

Starting from the wide end, gently roll each triangle of dough, tucking in the sides as you go to keep that delightful filling secure. This may feel a bit tricky, but it’s all part of the fun! Once rolled, place the crescent rolls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet.

Bake Until Golden

Pop your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until the crescents are deeply golden and flaky. The aroma that fills your kitchen is nothing short of heavenly!

Make the Sweet Lemon Glaze

While your rolls are baking, it's the perfect time to whip up a sweet lemon glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk until you achieve a thick but pourable consistency. This glaze will give your rolls a beautiful finishing touch—plus, who doesn’t love a little extra sweetness?

Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle that luscious glaze over the warm crescents. The way it melts and drips is simply irresistible—just wait until you see (and taste) the final product!

Enjoy these Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls as a delightful breakfast, brunch treat, or even a quick snack. They’re sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have one. Happy baking!

Variations on Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Lemon cream cheese roll-ups
For a fun twist, try making lemon cream cheese roll-ups. Simply spread the creamy lemon filling onto the unrolled crescent dough, roll it tightly, and slice into bite-sized pieces. Bake until golden and serve as delightful, easy-to-eat snacks at your next gathering. These roll-ups are perfect for brunch or a relaxing evening with friends!

Lemon blueberry crescent rolls
Elevate your lemon cream cheese crescent rolls by adding fresh blueberries to the filling. The burst of blueberry flavor complements the zesty lemon perfectly! Just fold a few berries into the cream cheese mixture before spreading it on the dough. Not only do you get a vibrant color contrast, but you also create a deliciously unique flavor profile that your guests will adore.

For more delicious ideas, check out these 11 blueberry recipes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

When preparing Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls, consider using full-fat cream cheese for a smoother, richer filling that will elevate each bite. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature—this ensures a creamy texture that blends easily with the sugar and zest. If you love lemon, don't be shy about adding a bit more zest or lemon juice; it's an effortless way to brighten the flavor!

For added flair, try drizzling a little extra glaze on top after cooling. You can also experiment with the filling by adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and enjoy them within a couple of days for the best taste. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Finding the perfect pairing for Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls can elevate your treat from delightful to divine! Here are a few serving suggestions to complement their zesty flavor:

Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or blueberries. Their natural sweetness balances the tangy lemon filling beautifully.
Coffee or Tea: These rolls make an excellent accompaniment to morning coffee or a calming herbal tea. Consider a refreshing iced lemon tea for an invigorating contrast.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for an indulgent touch. A sprinkling of lemon zest on top ties everything together.
Brunch Delight: These crescent rolls are perfect for brunch. Pair with Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a hearty meal that still feels light.

Enjoy experimenting with these suggestions, and let your creativity shine!

Time Breakdown for Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Preparation Time

Getting started on these Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls only takes about 18 minutes. This includes preheating the oven, mixing your luscious filling, and assembling the rolls. It’s quick enough to fit into a busy day!

Baking Time

After you’ve prepped the rolls, pop them into the oven and let them bake for 11-13 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they look golden brown and absolutely irresistible.

Total Time

In all, you’re looking at about 28 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a last-minute dessert or a fun weekend brunch treat. For more delightful ideas, check out this article on how to enhance your baking game!

Nutritional Facts for Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

When indulging in these delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls, it’s helpful to know what you’re treating your taste buds to. Here’s a quick breakdown of key nutritional facts:

Calories: Each roll contains approximately 180 calories, making it a satisfying treat without overwhelming your daily intake.
Sugar: With 10g of sugar, these rolls strike a nice balance without being overly sweet, thanks to the creamy lemon filling.
Sodium: At 150mg of sodium, they’re perfect for a light snack or dessert without exceeding your sodium limits for the day.

For more insights on your favorite ingredients, check out this nutritional guide to help make informed choices in the kitchen!

Whether you're hosting a brunch or treating yourself during a cozy evening in, these rolls are a delicious way to enjoy something sweet and citrusy.

FAQs about Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese for Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls, but keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess of the filling. Full-fat cream cheese typically offers a richer texture and flavor, enhancing your pastry experience. If you’re looking for a healthier option, low-fat will still work but might not be as luxurious.

How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers of these delicious rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. The glaze may soften a bit, but they’ll still taste fabulous!

Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls?

Absolutely! You can freeze the Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls before or after baking. If freezing unbaked rolls, assemble them and place them on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. For baked rolls, let them cool completely before freezing to ensure they maintain quality. Enjoy your delightful treat anytime!

Conclusion on Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

In summary, Lemon Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls combine zest and creaminess for a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their ease of preparation makes them a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Embrace the joy of baking and enjoy these delectable rolls — they're sure to impress!