If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the flaky, buttery goodness of crescent rolls and the creamy, dreamy delight of cheesecake, this Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an enchanting treat that’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers layers of flavor and texture that are perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. The combination of soft cream cheese filling nestled between golden crescent roll layers, topped with a cinnamon-sugar butter glaze, makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe is effortless thanks to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a key role, whether it’s creating a tender crust, a luscious filling, or a sweet, spiced topping that ties everything together beautifully.
- 1 pound cream cheese, softened: Provides the rich, smooth cheesecake filling that’s the star of the show.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer perfectly without overpowering the flavor.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the filling’s flavor profile.
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent rolls: Form the golden, flaky layers that cradle the filling.
- Flour (for dusting work surface): Keeps the dough from sticking and makes rolling out the crescent rolls easier.
- 1/2 cup butter: Combines with sugar and cinnamon to create a luscious, buttery topping.
- 3/4 cup sugar (for topping): Sweetens the cinnamon butter topping for that addictive glaze.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings a warm, spicy note that perfectly complements the creamy filling and buttery crust.
How to Make Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C). This steady, moderate heat ensures your crescent roll crust will bake to a perfect golden brown while the cheesecake filling sets nicely—no overcooked edges or underdone centers here.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is luxuriously smooth and fluffy. Be sure to scrape the sides occasionally to avoid any lumps, then stir in the vanilla extract. This filling should feel silky and inviting—promise, it tastes even better than it looks!
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Roll Base
Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking. Open one can of crescent rolls and unroll the dough completely. Use a rolling pin to gently shape the dough into a 9-by-13-inch rectangle to fit your baking dish perfectly. Transfer the dough carefully to the greased dish, pressing it down evenly to form a consistent base layer.
Step 4: Add Cheesecake Layer
Spread the fluffy cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll base. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out into a neat, uniform layer. This step ensures each bite has that perfect balance of flaky crust and rich filling.
Step 5: Top with Second Crescent Roll Layer
Now, open the second can of crescent rolls and roll it out the same way, into a rectangle that matches your pan. Carefully place this dough layer over the cream cheese filling, covering it fully and sealing in all that creamy goodness beneath.
Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix the softened or melted butter with 3/4 cup sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Dot or gently spread this cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the top crescent roll layer. This step adds that irresistibly sweet, spiced finish that transforms this cheesecake into something truly special.
Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is gloriously golden brown and the filling feels set to the touch. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly, a sure sign the Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe is nearing perfection.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the cheesecake cool in the pan so the filling firms up nicely. This resting time makes slicing a breeze and ensures clean, beautiful squares ready for sharing or savoring solo.
How to Serve Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and a pleasantly tart contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm honey also adds a lovely finishing touch that’s visually appealing and delicious.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add a cool, creamy element alongside the warm cinnamon topping. If you’re looking to keep things classic, a hot cup of rich coffee or spiced chai tea complements the dessert’s sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, cut the cheesecake into bite-sized bars and serve them on decorative skewers with fresh fruit on the side. You can also plate individual servings with drizzles of caramel or chocolate sauce, turning your Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or transferred to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks.
Freezing
If you want to extend its life, you can freeze this dessert by wrapping it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It holds up beautifully for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy the cheesecake warm, reheat slices briefly in the microwave—about 15 to 20 seconds per piece—or pop the whole dish in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Reheating revives that fresh-from-the-oven appeal and melts the buttery topping slightly for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use regular pie dough instead of crescent rolls for this recipe?
You can, but crescent rolls give the cheesecake a wonderfully flaky, buttery texture and a slight sweetness that pie dough won’t replicate. If you prefer a sturdier crust, pie dough works, but expect a different mouthfeel.
Is it necessary to use softened cream cheese?
Yes, softened cream cheese blends more easily and results in a smooth, lump-free filling. Cold cream cheese makes it harder to mix and can create an uneven texture.
Can this Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe be made gluten-free?
Traditional crescent rolls contain gluten, so for a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free crescent roll alternative or a gluten-free pastry dough that you like.
How can I prevent the crescent roll layers from becoming soggy?
Spreading the cream cheese filling evenly and not too thickly helps. Also, make sure to bake at the right temperature to fully set the filling and cook the crust until golden, which keeps it flaky instead of soggy.
Can I add fruit inside the filling?
Absolutely! Adding fresh or canned fruit like cherries or sliced strawberries into the cream cheese layer can add a delightful fruity touch, just be mindful not to add too much moisture to avoid sogginess.
Final Thoughts
This Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe truly is a joy to make and even greater to enjoy. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dessert that anyone can master and impress with. Whether it’s a casual family dessert or a festive crowd-pleaser, make sure you give this comforting, delightful treat a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe combines flaky crescent roll dough with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling, topped with a buttery cinnamon sugar crust. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an easy and delicious dessert perfect for gatherings and special occasions, serving 12 slices in under an hour.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling
- 1 pound cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dough
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
- Flour (for dusting work surface, as needed)
Topping
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat The Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure the cream cheese is fully incorporated and smooth, with no lumps. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Prepare the Crescent Roll Base: Dust a flat surface lightly with flour. Open one can of crescent rolls and unroll the dough. Use a rolling pin to shape it into a 9×13-inch rectangle, matching your baking dish. Lay the dough in the bottom of the prepared dish, gently pressing it to cover the base evenly.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll dough in the baking dish, using a small offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it into a uniform layer.
- Top with Second Crescent Roll Layer: Open the second can of crescent rolls. Roll out into a 9×13-inch rectangle as before. Carefully place this sheet over the cream cheese filling, covering it completely.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the butter (softened or melted as preferred), remaining 3/4 cup sugar, and cinnamon until well blended. Dot or spread this mixture evenly over the top layer of crescent roll dough, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan before slicing into squares and serving. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Dusting the work surface with flour helps prevent the crescent roll dough from sticking when rolling it out.
- You can adjust the amount of cinnamon in the topping to taste.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing ensures neater slices.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
