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This blueberry cheesecake roll recipe turns simple crescent roll dough into a delightful treat filled with creamy cheesecake and fresh blueberries. It combines flaky, buttery pastry with a sweet and tangy filling that brings a burst of fresh flavor in every bite. Perfect for a quick dessert or an impressive sweet snack any time of day.
Ingredients
- Crescent roll dough: provides a flaky and buttery shell that bakes up golden and crisp, choose a brand with high quality butter for best flavor
- Cream cheese: softened for smooth texture and rich tanginess that forms the base of the filling
- Granulated sugar: balances the tang of the cheese and brightens the filling
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth, opt for pure vanilla extract when possible
- Blueberries: fresh or frozen work well, fresh offers a burst of juiciness while frozen helps keep the filling moist
- Lemon zest: lifts the flavors with fresh citrus notes, use organic lemons to avoid any wax or pesticides on the peel
- Powdered sugar: for a light dusting that complements the sweetness and adds a pretty finishing touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a baking sheet. This ensures the rolls won’t stick and bake evenly.
- Prepare the Crescent Dough:
- Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface and gently press the seams together to create one continuous sheet. This gives a uniform base for the filling.
- Mix the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat them together until completely smooth without any lumps.
- Spread the Filling:
- Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border at the edges so the filling stays inside while baking.
- Add Blueberries and Lemon Zest:
- Scatter the blueberries evenly across the cream cheese layer and sprinkle the lemon zest on top. This adds freshness and bursts of flavor with each roll.
- Roll and Slice:
- Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one long edge. Once rolled, slice the log into eight equal portions using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet with some space between them. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Dust:
- Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before lightly dusting them with powdered sugar. This adds a sweet finish and makes them extra inviting.
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Storage Tips
Store the leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge where they will stay fresh for up to a week. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to bring back that flaky texture. If you want to prepare ahead, you can slice the rolls and freeze them raw for up to a month, then bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes in the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap cream cheese with mascarpone for a creamier and milder filling. If you don’t have fresh blueberries, cherries or raspberries make tasty alternatives and provide similar tangy sweetness. Use lemon juice in place of zest if needed but reduce quantity to avoid overwhelming moisture. For those avoiding sugar, honey or maple syrup can sweeten the cream cheese filling naturally but may alter texture slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rolls warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance sweetness with warmth. For a brunch twist, accompany with scrambled eggs or a light green salad to complement the richness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of dough is best for these rolls?
Crescent roll dough is ideal due to its flaky, buttery texture that bakes into golden, tender layers.
- → Can I use frozen blueberries for the filling?
Yes, frozen blueberries work well; just make sure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- → How do I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?
Pressing the dough seams together and evenly spreading the cream cheese mixture helps maintain structure and avoid sogginess during baking.
- → Is lemon zest necessary for the flavor?
Lemon zest adds a bright, fresh note that complements the sweetness of blueberries and richness of cream cheese, enhancing overall taste.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving to preserve texture and flavor.