If you have a sweet tooth and a love for comforting, melt-in-your-mouth desserts, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole – Easy, Creamy & Buttery Dessert Recipe. Imagine the perfect marriage of soft, flaky crescent rolls layered with a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling that’s kissed with vanilla and cinnamon. Every bite delivers buttery richness and just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re sharing it at a family brunch or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this casserole brings delight with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simplicity and quality—the ingredients are few but carefully chosen to create a dreamy texture and irresistible taste. Each element plays a key role, from the flaky crescent roll dough providing the tender base and top layer, to the rich, smooth cream cheese filling that adds that classic cheesecake feel, finished off with cinnamon and sugar for a warm, glazed touch.
- Crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): The foundation of the casserole, these rolls bake up golden and flaky for the perfect crust and crust top.
- Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): Creates the creamy, luscious filling that makes this casserole taste like cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup, divided): Sweetens the cream cheese filling and adds a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the richness and depth of the cream cheese filling with a subtle floral note.
- Melted butter (½ cup): Brushed on top to add buttery flavor and help create a golden, shiny crust.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Mixed with sugar for a warm, fragrant topping that complements the cream cheese perfectly.
How to Make Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole – Easy, Creamy & Buttery Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures that the crescent rolls don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Preparing the dish ahead also gives you a moment to organize your ingredients and get excited about the baking adventure ahead.
Step 2: Layer the First Crescent Roll Dough
Open one can of crescent roll dough and press it gently but firmly into the bottom of your baking dish. Be sure to seal any perforations well so that the filling stays put and doesn’t leak through. This layer acts as a tender yet sturdy base for the luscious cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with half the granulated sugar and the vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth. Taking the time to beat it thoroughly ensures a creamy, lump-free filling that will set beautifully when baked.
Step 4: Spread the Filling Over the Dough
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread your cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll dough in the dish. This layer is the heart of the dessert, so be generous and smooth it out nicely for an even bake and every bite to have that rich, creamy texture.
Step 5: Top with the Second Crescent Roll Layer
Unroll the second can of crescent dough and gently stretch it to cover the cream cheese filling. It might need a little coaxing to fit the shape of your dish, but be gentle so it doesn’t tear. This top layer bakes to a golden crust that balances the soft filling.
Step 6: Add Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Brush the entire surface with melted butter to help it crisp up beautifully in the oven. Then, sprinkle the remaining half cup of sugar mixed with cinnamon evenly on top. These finishing touches create a sweet, aromatic crust that adds texture and visual appeal.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a gorgeous golden brown, and the filling is set but still creamy. Let it cool in the dish for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to meld and the filling to thicken slightly.
How to Serve Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole – Easy, Creamy & Buttery Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this casserole with a sprinkling of powdered sugar or a drizzle of fresh fruit preserves adds a lovely visual pop and contrast of flavor. Fresh berries offer bursts of brightness that complement the creamy richness beautifully, making each slice feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This dessert casserole pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light, fruity tea. If you want to round out a brunch spread, consider adding fresh fruit salads or yogurt parfaits for a balanced and refreshing combo that won’t overwhelm your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming twist that’s perfect for gatherings or brunch parties. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for that cozy, inviting touch. This also makes it easy to customize garnishes for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy delicious slices without any rush.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing uncooked, assemble as instructed and wrap the dish tightly with plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge. Leftover baked casserole can be frozen in individual portions wrapped carefully in foil or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual servings on medium power for 30-40 seconds. This keeps the rolls flaky and the filling creamy without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese to lighten the dish, though it may alter the creamy texture slightly. Full-fat cream cheese typically provides the richest, smoothest results.
What if I don’t have crescent roll dough—can I use puff pastry instead?
Puff pastry can work as an alternative, offering a flakier texture, but the baking time and handling differ slightly. Keep an eye on the oven as it may bake faster, and you might need to adjust layers carefully.
Is this casserole suitable for breakfast or just dessert?
While it’s definitely indulgent enough for dessert, its sweet, creamy nature and flaky crust make it a delightful breakfast or brunch treat, especially when paired with coffee or fruit.
Can I add fruit inside the filling?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen berries or sliced peaches can be gently folded into the cream cheese mixture before spreading for a fruity surprise that pairs wonderfully with the buttery crust.
How do I prevent the edges from burning?
To avoid overly browned edges, you can loosely cover the corners of the dish with foil halfway through baking. This allows the center to cook thoroughly while protecting delicate edges.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole – Easy, Creamy & Buttery Dessert Recipe. It’s a recipe that transforms humble ingredients into a show-stopping treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to for your next gathering or cozy night in. Give it a whirl — I promise it’ll bring a smile with every creamy, buttery mouthful.
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Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole – Easy, Creamy & Buttery Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole is a simple, creamy, and buttery dessert that combines soft crescent roll dough with a sweet cream cheese filling, topped with a cinnamon-sugar butter glaze. Perfect for a delightful breakfast treat or a sweet snack, this casserole is easy to prepare and bakes up golden and delicious in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Shape the base layer. Unroll and press one can of crescent roll dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, carefully sealing any perforations to create a solid base.
- Make the cream cheese filling. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the filling. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the layer of crescent dough in the baking dish.
- Add the top dough layer. Layer the second can of crescent roll dough over the cream cheese filling, gently stretching it to fit the dish evenly.
- Brush with butter and sugar-cinnamon topping. Brush the melted butter evenly over the top dough layer, then sprinkle a mixture of the remaining ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon on top for a sweet, golden finish.
- Bake until golden brown. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and serve. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream cheese with a lower-fat version if desired.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a handful of fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top after baking.
- Make sure to properly seal the crescent roll dough perforations to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Allowing the casserole to cool fully enhances the texture and flavor.
- This casserole can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
