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Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

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Golden, flaky, and filled with sweet creamy goodness, Cheesecake Crescent Rolls are the ultimate cheat-day treat. This recipe takes a shortcut through refrigerated crescent dough, layers in a luscious cream cheese filling, and finishes with a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar. The result is a warm, pillowy bite with a dreamy cheesecake center that melts in your mouth.

Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy midnight snack, these rolls are as easy to make as they are to devour. They bring all the comfort of a homemade pastry without the fuss of complicated steps or fancy equipment. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making these on repeat.


What Kind of Crescent Rolls Should I Use?

Refrigerated crescent roll dough from the grocery store makes this recipe super simple. You can use the classic Pillsbury version or a store-brand alternative—just make sure it’s the kind that unrolls into individual triangles. Avoid crescent sheets if you want that signature layered effect.


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Ingredients for the Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

Cream Cheese – The heart of the filling. Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest, richest texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the cream cheese mixture and also forms the irresistible cinnamon sugar topping.

Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the cheesecake flavor beautifully.

Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough – Forms the golden, flaky exterior. You’ll need two cans for a full 9×13 pan.

Butter – Melted and brushed on top to help the cinnamon sugar stick and create a golden finish.

Cinnamon – Warm spice that takes these over the top. Mixed with sugar for the topping.


How To Make the Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Roll Out the Base Layer

Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the dish. Pinch the seams together to form a smooth, even layer. This will be the base of your cheesecake rolls.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is silky and smooth.

Step 4: Layer the Filling

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the crescent dough base. Use a spatula to smooth it out all the way to the edges.

Step 5: Add the Top Layer

Unroll the second can of crescent dough and carefully lay it over the cream cheese layer. Again, pinch the seams together to cover the filling completely.

Step 6: Butter and Sugar Topping

Brush the melted butter evenly over the top layer. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered dough.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Cut into squares or bars and serve warm, room temperature, or chilled—every way is delicious!


How to Serve and Store Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

These cheesecake crescent rolls are dreamy when served warm right out of the oven, but they’re just as irresistible once cooled. Try them with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for dessert, or pair with fresh berries at brunch. You can even dust a little powdered sugar on top for an extra-sweet finish.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to bring back that soft, gooey texture. They can also be enjoyed cold if you’re into that cheesecake-chilled vibe.


Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cream cheese works best?

Full-fat, block-style cream cheese is the best option. Avoid whipped or low-fat versions as they can affect the texture and richness of the filling.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them the night before and bake fresh the next morning. Just cover the pan with foil and store in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I freeze cheesecake crescent rolls?

Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave.

What else can I add to the filling?

Lemon zest, almond extract, or even a swirl of fruit preserves (like raspberry or strawberry) can take these to a whole new level.

Why is the top dough sometimes soggy?

This usually happens if the rolls weren’t baked long enough. Make sure the top is golden and slightly crisp before removing from the oven.

Can I double the recipe?

You can, but it’s best to bake in two separate pans to ensure even cooking. A crowded pan might leave you with undercooked centers.


Want More Cheesecake Ideas with a Twist?

If these cheesecake crescent rolls hit the sweet spot for you, you’ll definitely want to try these other creative cheesecake treats from Life with Jam:


Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or add your own flavor twist? A little lemon? Some strawberry preserves?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Looking for more easy desserts like this? Follow my Pinterest for daily sweet inspiration: Life with Jam on Pinterest


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Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe

Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Recipe


  • Author: Jam Scott
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars

Description

Golden, flaky crescent dough wrapped around a rich, vanilla-kissed cream cheese filling—this Cheesecake Crescent Rolls recipe is a sweet and simple indulgence that’s perfect for dessert, brunch, or a cozy treat any time of day.


Ingredients

2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.

2. Roll out one can of crescent dough into the dish. Pinch seams to form a smooth layer.

3. In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom layer of dough.

5. Unroll the second can of dough and lay it over the cream cheese. Pinch seams closed.

6. Brush melted butter evenly over the top dough layer.

7. Mix 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle generously on top.

8. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.

9. Cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

10. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

Notes

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.

Don’t skip sealing the crescent seams—it keeps the layers distinct and holds the filling in place.

For extra flair, add a swirl of fruit jam or lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 270mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: cheesecake crescent rolls, crescent roll dessert, cream cheese dessert

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