If you’re looking for a dessert that’s impossible to resist, easy to make, and always the first to disappear at the potluck, you need to try Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole. This delightfully indulgent treat is layer after layer of creamy, tangy cheesecake snuggled between soft, golden sheets of crescent dough, kissed with buttery cinnamon sugar on top. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering the magic of cheesecake with the comfort of a bakery-fresh cinnamon roll—without any fuss or fancy equipment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole such a star is its short and sweet ingredient list. Each item brings something special to the party—richness, sweetness, luscious texture, or that irresistible golden finish—so be sure to use quality ingredients for the best results!
- Crescent roll dough (2 cans): The secret shortcut to a flaky, pillowy crust that holds all the creamy filling together.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, softened): Delivers that classic tangy-smooth cheesecake flavor; let it soften for easy blending.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup for filling, ¼ cup for topping): Sweetens both the creamy center and the irresistible cinnamon swirl on top.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor of the cream cheese filling.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Oozes into the crescent rolls for rich flavor and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Brings a warm, aromatic kick and creates that cinnamon roll effect everyone loves.
How to Make Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little nonstick spray or butter. This ensures nothing sticks and sets the stage for golden, crispy edges once your Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole bakes up.
Step 2: Lay Down the First Dough Layer
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough. Gently press it into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, pinching the seams closed so you have a solid, even base. This bottom layer bakes into a tender, buttery crust that makes every slice perfectly hand-held.
Step 3: Create the Cheesecake Filling
Grab a medium mixing bowl and add your softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy with no lumps in sight. This luscious filling is what transforms this casserole into a dreamy, cheesecake-inspired dessert.
Step 4: Spread and Layer
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over your crescent roll base, getting right to the edges for maximum creamy goodness in every bite. Then, unroll your second can of crescent dough and lay it gently over the filling. Pinch the seams closed so the cheesecake layer won’t peek out during baking.
Step 5: Butter and Sprinkle
Pour the melted butter evenly over the top dough layer. In a small bowl, stir together the remaining ¼ cup of sugar and the ground cinnamon, then lovingly sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar goodness all over the casserole. The butter soaks in and the cinnamon sugar creates a shattering, caramelized top that’s simply addictive.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your assembled Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The top should be beautifully golden and the center just set. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing—this helps the filling firm up and lets all those incredible flavors settle in.
How to Serve Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole
Garnishes
Go classic with a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving, or add a pop of fresh color with a handful of berries on the side. A drizzle of honey or a splash of chocolate sauce takes things into special-occasion territory if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Side Dishes
Serve slices alongside a hot cup of coffee for breakfast, or pair with a tall glass of icy cold milk for an after-dinner treat. For parties and brunches, a bowl of fresh fruit salad or a tangy citrus compote balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your cooled Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole into generous squares or slim rectangular bars for a professional look. For gatherings, place each piece in a colorful cupcake liner on a platter—easy to serve and extra cute! You can also top each slice with a little whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon for a true bakery vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have some) can be covered tightly with plastic wrap or transferred to an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to four days. The flavor only gets better as the layers mingle!
Freezing
This casserole freezes like a dream. Slice into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then pop them into a freezer bag. You’ll have a homemade treat ready to go for up to two months—just let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
If you’re craving a warm treat, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until soft and delicious. To crisp up the crust, a quick stint in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes gets the job done perfectly.
FAQs
Can I add fruit or chocolate to my Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole?
Absolutely! Sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips over the filling or swirl a few spoonfuls of jam or lemon curd before adding the top layer of dough. It’s a great way to personalize your casserole and play with flavors.
Is there a gluten-free version of this casserole?
You can make a gluten-free version by using store-bought gluten-free crescent dough and ensuring all your other ingredients are gluten-free. The result will still deliver all that creamy, sweet joy!
Can I prepare the Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole (without baking) and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s starting out cold.
How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?
Make sure to seal the seams well on the bottom layer, and always let your casserole cool a bit before slicing. If you like, you can pre-bake the bottom crescent crust for 5 minutes before adding the filling, though it’s not strictly necessary.
Does this Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole travel well?
Definitely! Once cooled and sliced, it’s perfect for packing up to take to potlucks, parties, or school events. Just keep it chilled during transport if the weather is warm.
Final Thoughts
There’s something honestly magical about the first bite of a freshly baked Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself and others, whether it’s holiday brunch, a casual potluck, or just because. Give this easy recipe a try—you may just find it becomes a permanent fixture in your dessert lineup!
Print
Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of this Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole, a sweet and creamy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Layers:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the first crescent roll: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the dish, sealing the seams.
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: Beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the dough.
- Add the top crescent layer: Unroll the second can of dough over the filling.
- Top with butter and cinnamon sugar: Pour melted butter over the top layer. Mix ¼ cup sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the butter.
- Bake and cool: Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled.
Notes
- For a citrus twist, add 1 tsp lemon zest to the filling.
- This casserole stores well in the fridge and can be reheated in the microwave for a quick treat.
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