There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of buttery, flaky pastry and rich, creamy cheesecake. Crescent Cheesecake Bars bring together these two beloved textures into one irresistible dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether it’s a weekend treat, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet craving that needs satisfying, these bars are guaranteed to become a household favorite.
I first discovered Crescent Cheesecake Bars at a family get-together when my aunt brought out a golden, cinnamon-sugar-topped tray of what looked like the perfect balance of pastry and cheesecake. One bite in, and I was hooked—the soft, creamy filling sandwiched between layers of delicate crescent dough with a crispy, sweet topping. That moment turned into a tradition, and now, this recipe has a permanent spot in my collection of go-to desserts.
Why You’ll Love Crescent Cheesecake Bars
- Easy to Make: Uses pre-made crescent dough for a simple, foolproof dessert.
- Creamy and Flaky: A perfect balance of crispy pastry and soft cheesecake filling.
- Versatile: Customizable with different toppings like fruit, chocolate, or nuts.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day!
- Kid-Approved: A dessert the whole family will love.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crescent Cheesecake Bars
First: Gather Your Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 2 (8 oz) cans crescent roll dough (Learn more about pastry dough)
- 2 (8 oz) packages Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
Second: Prepare Your Tools
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Ensures even baking.
- Mixing bowls – For blending ingredients smoothly.
- Hand mixer or whisk – Helps create a fluffy, creamy filling.
- Pastry brush – Ideal for spreading butter evenly over the top crust.
Third: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
Fourth: Assemble the Crescent Cheesecake Bars
- Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Spread cheesecake filling evenly over the dough.
- Place the second crescent dough layer on top, being careful not to press too firmly.
Fifth: Add the Buttery Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
- Melt butter and spread it evenly over the top crust.
- Sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon over the buttered surface.
Sixth: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Tips for Making the Best Crescent Cheesecake Bars
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture.
- Chill before serving for a firm, sliceable consistency.
- Add fruit preserves between the layers for a fruity twist.
- Drizzle with caramel or chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Store in the fridge for up to three days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid About Crescent Cheesecake Bars
- Overbaking – Can dry out the cheesecake layer.
- Skipping the cooling step – Makes slicing difficult.
- Pressing the top dough too hard – Prevents flaky layers.
Variations and Customizations the Crescent Cheesecake Bars
- Berry Cheesecake Bars – Add a layer of fruit preserves before the top crust.
- Chocolate Lover’s Bars – Mix chocolate chips into the filling.
- Nutty Delight – Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Pumpkin Spice Version – Add pumpkin puree and warm spices to the filling.
FAQs About Crescent Cheesecake Bars
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes! They taste even better after chilling overnight.
Q: Can I use homemade crescent dough?
A: Absolutely! If you have time, homemade dough adds an extra touch of flavor.
Q: Can these be frozen?
A: Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What to Serve with Crescent Cheesecake Bars
- A hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Related Recipes You May Love
If you enjoy comforting and delicious baked goods, you might also love:
- Mini Meatloaf Recipe – A savory and satisfying dinner option.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet – A one-pan meal packed with flavor.
- Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe – A cheesy and delicious Italian-inspired dish.
Conclusion
Crescent Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect blend of flaky pastry and creamy filling. Whether served at a party or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, these bars are a deliciously satisfying dessert. Try them today and discover your new favorite sweet treat!
PrintCrescent Cheesecake Bars
Crescent Cheesecake Bars combine flaky crescent roll dough with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling and a crispy cinnamon-sugar topping. This simple yet indulgent dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 2 (8 oz) cans crescent roll dough
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
First: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with softened butter.
Second: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
Third: Assemble the Cheesecake Bars
- Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough.
- Unroll the second can of crescent dough and gently place it over the filling without pressing too firmly.
Fourth: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
- Melt the butter and pour it evenly over the top dough layer.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered surface.
Fifth: Bake and Cool
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Notes
- For a fruity twist, add a layer of fruit preserves between the cheesecake filling and the top crescent dough.
- Drizzle with caramel or chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Best served chilled; store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Sugar: ~18g
- Sodium: ~220mg
- Fat: ~17g
- Saturated Fat: ~9g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~6g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~4g
- Cholesterol: ~40mg
Keywords: Crescent roll cheesecake bars, flaky pastry dessert, easy cheesecake bars, cinnamon sugar cheesecake squares, crescent roll desserts