Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole is the ultimate dessert for when you want something rich, creamy, and irresistibly easy to make. This recipe layers buttery crescent roll dough with a smooth cheesecake filling, then bakes to golden perfection. The result is a dessert that’s flaky on the outside, creamy on the inside, and delightfully indulgent in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual weeknight treats, this casserole combines the comforting flavors of cheesecake with the simplicity of crescent rolls. It requires minimal prep time, making it a go-to option when you want a homemade dessert without hours of work. With its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal, Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
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Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole: A Sweet and Simple Crowd-Pleaser
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and creamy cheesecake filling wrapped in buttery crescent rolls, baked into a golden casserole and finished with a cinnamon-sugar topping.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press into the bottom of the prepared dish to form an even layer.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll base.
- Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place on top of the cream cheese layer, pressing seams to seal.
- Pour melted butter evenly over the top crust.
- Mix remaining 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle over the buttered top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing into squares or bars.
Notes
- Best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
- For added flavor, drizzle with honey or caramel sauce before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can add fruit preserves between the cream cheese and top dough layer for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crescent Roll Dough – Provides a buttery, flaky crust that simplifies the cheesecake-making process.
Cream Cheese – The star of the filling, giving the dessert its signature creamy richness.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the filling, adding a warm and aromatic touch.
Egg (optional) – Helps stabilize the filling for a firmer texture, though it can be omitted for a softer result.
Butter – Melted and brushed on top to give the crescent rolls a golden, slightly crisp finish.
Cinnamon Sugar (optional topping) – A sweet sprinkle that adds warmth, crunch, and an appealing finish.
Powdered Sugar (for garnish) – A light dusting over the top adds visual appeal and extra sweetness.
Directions
Preheat your oven and lightly grease a baking dish. Unroll one package of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the base.
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add an egg if desired for more structure. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crescent roll base.
Unroll the second package of crescent roll dough and place it carefully over the filling to create the top layer. Brush the surface with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if using.
Bake until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the filling is set. Allow the casserole to cool before slicing into squares or rectangles. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Servings and timing
This casserole serves 12 slices. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, baking requires 25–30 minutes, and cooling time is an additional 15 minutes before serving.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve cold for a firm texture or reheat individual portions in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.
Variations and Customizations
Fruit Swirl – Add raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry preserves between the cream cheese layer for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Lovers’ Version – Drizzle melted chocolate or add chocolate chips to the filling.
Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for added texture.
Pumpkin Spice – Add pumpkin puree and cinnamon to the cream cheese filling for a seasonal variation.
Caramel Drizzle – Top with caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.
Honey Version – Replace granulated sugar with honey for a subtly different sweetness.
Savory Twist – Skip sugar and make a savory version with herbs and garlic.
Peanut Butter Swirl – Incorporate peanut butter into the filling for a rich, nutty flavor.
Coconut Flakes – Sprinkle toasted coconut on top for tropical flair.
Mini Casseroles – Prepare in muffin tins for individual servings.
FAQs
Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the richest flavor and texture.
Can I use homemade crescent dough?
Absolutely, though store-bought dough makes the recipe much quicker.
Do I need to refrigerate the casserole?
Yes, because of the cream cheese filling, refrigeration is necessary.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole is a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the ease of crescent rolls. With its golden, flaky crust and rich filling, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion—from family gatherings to casual dinners. The recipe is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to add fruit, chocolate, or other creative twists. Quick to prepare and sure to impress, this casserole is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to create a delicious dessert. Once you try it, it will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.