Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole Recipe

This Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the buttery flakiness of crescent rolls with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Layers of crescent dough are filled with a sweet cream cheese mixture, baked until golden, and topped with a cinnamon-sugar crust for the perfect finishing touch. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the ultimate comfort dessert—crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. It comes together in minutes and is baked to perfection in under an hour. The layers of buttery crescent dough pair perfectly with the smooth, tangy cheesecake filling, while the cinnamon-sugar topping adds a sweet, crunchy bite. This dish is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you just want an easy dessert with a big payoff. Plus, it’s super customizable with fruit fillings or drizzles for an extra twist.

Ingredients

this Recipe

• 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Roll out one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pinch the seams together to form an even layer.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll layer in the baking dish.
5. Roll out the second can of crescent dough and lay it on top of the cream cheese layer. Pinch the seams together again.
6. Pour the melted butter evenly over the top layer of crescent dough.
7. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup sugar with ground cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the melted butter.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
9. Let the casserole cool to room temperature before slicing. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best texture.
10. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

• Fruit-filled: Add a layer of fruit jam (such as raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry) on top of the cream cheese filling before adding the second layer of dough.
• Chocolate lover’s version: Mix chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.
• Nutty version: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added crunch.
• Lemon twist: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and zest to the cream cheese mixture for a citrusy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: This casserole is typically served chilled, but if you prefer it warm, heat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy than the full-fat version.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole can be made a day ahead. Just cover it and refrigerate overnight, then serve chilled or warm as desired.

3. Can I freeze Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

4. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Puff pastry can be used as an alternative to crescent dough, but the texture will be flakier and less doughy. Make sure to adjust the baking time as needed.

5. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the top layer is golden brown and the edges are set. A slight jiggle in the center is fine as it will firm up while cooling.

6. Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, flavored cream cheese such as strawberry or honey can be used for a fun twist on the classic flavor.

7. How do I prevent the dough from becoming soggy?

Be sure to let the casserole cool completely before slicing, and avoid adding too much liquid-based fruit filling without adjusting the baking time.

8. Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes, a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla can be drizzled on top after baking for extra sweetness.

9. Can I serve this casserole warm?

Yes, although it’s traditionally served chilled, serving it warm results in a gooier texture. Let it cool slightly after baking before cutting and serving.

10. Can I substitute the sugar for a healthier option?

Yes, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia, though this may slightly alter the texture and taste.

Conclusion

This Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole is a must-try dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its buttery crescent layers, rich cream cheese filling, and crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or a simple dessert craving, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve it chilled or warm and watch it disappear from the plate in no time!

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