Crescent Rolls Cheesecake

There’s something magical about recipes that come together effortlessly yet deliver an unforgettable result—this Crescent Rolls Cheesecake is one of those rare treasures. The very first time I made it, I was looking for a quick dessert that wouldn’t require complex steps or baking expertise. I had a can of crescent rolls in the fridge, some cream cheese on hand, and a craving for something sweet and creamy. From that moment on, this dessert became one of my go-to treats whenever I wanted to impress guests or satisfy a cheesecake craving without the fuss of a traditional recipe.

You’re going to love this recipe for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. No springform pans, water baths, or hours of chilling required. It’s also delightfully creamy on the inside, with a lightly crisp, golden crescent roll crust that wraps everything together like a buttery hug. Whether you serve it warm out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, it’s guaranteed to deliver comfort and joy in every bite.

One of the things I appreciate most about this Crescent Rolls Cheesecake is its versatility. You can keep it classic with just vanilla, or dress it up with a drizzle of honey, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top. Feeling adventurous? Add a layer of fruit preserves or chopped nuts between the two crescent layers for extra texture and flavor. It’s a dessert that adapts to every season and occasion.

Another great advantage is how budget-friendly it is. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easily available at any supermarket, making this a perfect last-minute option for gatherings, potlucks, or weekday indulgences. There’s no need for expensive or rare items—just simple ingredients that come together to make something truly delicious.

Ingredients for Crescent Rolls Cheesecake:

  • 2 cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough

  • 2 packages (226 g each) of cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Prepare Crescent Rolls Cheesecake

This Crescent Rolls Cheesecake is incredibly simple to prepare and delivers impressive results with minimal effort. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe approachable and satisfying from the first step to the last. The final product combines a buttery, flaky crust with a rich, creamy cheesecake center—an irresistible dessert everyone will love.


Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

1. Preheat the oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). It’s important that the oven reaches the correct temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

2. Prepare the baking dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or a neutral oil. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal after baking.

3. Layer the first crescent roll dough:
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough. Gently press it into the bottom of your prepared dish. If the dough is perforated, pinch the seams together carefully to form one even layer. Ensure the dough reaches the edges and covers the base evenly.

4. Make the cheesecake filling:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix again until fully incorporated. The filling should be silky with no lumps.

5. Spread the cheesecake layer:
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the bottom crescent roll layer. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly, making sure it reaches all corners of the dish.

6. Add the top crescent roll layer:
Open the second can of crescent roll dough. As before, unroll it and carefully lay it over the cream cheese layer. Pinch any seams together and adjust to cover the entire surface. It’s fine if it’s not perfect—as it bakes, it will puff slightly and even out.

7. Pour melted butter over the top:
Evenly drizzle the melted butter over the top layer of crescent dough. This will help create a golden, slightly crisp surface.

8. Cinnamon-sugar topping:
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered crescent dough. This adds a sweet and flavorful finish that perfectly complements the creamy center.

9. Bake:
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The cheesecake filling should not jiggle too much when gently shaken.

10. Cool before serving:
Allow the cheesecake to cool in the dish for at least 20 minutes. For best results, refrigerate for an hour before cutting—it helps the filling firm up and makes slicing easier. However, it can also be served slightly warm, depending on your preference.


Quick and Easy

This recipe shines because of its speed and simplicity. From opening the crescent roll cans to pulling a golden, aromatic dessert from the oven, the whole process takes under an hour. It’s ideal when you need something fast but still homemade. The ready-made dough eliminates the need for crust-making, and the filling comes together in minutes. There’s no water bath, no cracking risk, and no long baking process. Just straightforward steps that lead to amazing results.


Customizable to Your Taste

While this recipe is delightful as-is, there are countless ways to make it your own. Here are some suggestions to vary the flavor:

  • Fruit layer: Spread a thin layer of fruit preserves (like raspberry or apricot) over the cream cheese filling before adding the top dough.

  • Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the filling for a citrus twist.

  • Nutty finish: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top with the cinnamon sugar for added texture.

  • Chocolate chips: Mix a handful into the cream cheese filling for a chocolatey upgrade.

  • Savory spin: Skip the cinnamon sugar, reduce the sugar in the filling, and add herbs for a sweet-savory appetizer version.


Popular with Everyone

This dessert never fails to impress. It’s a huge hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and celebrations of all kinds. Because the flavors are simple and comforting, it appeals to both kids and adults. The cheesecake layer is smooth and rich, while the crescent dough adds a lightly crisp contrast that’s utterly satisfying.

Whether you serve it with coffee after dinner or bring it to a brunch, Crescent Rolls Cheesecake will become one of your most requested and beloved desserts.

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Crescent Rolls Cheesecake

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This Crescent Rolls Cheesecake is a quick and easy dessert featuring a rich, creamy filling layered between buttery sheets of crescent roll dough. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
  • 2 packages (226 g each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  3. Open one can of crescent dough and unroll it into the bottom of the dish. Press seams together to form an even layer.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
  5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent dough layer.
  6. Unroll the second can of crescent dough and place it gently over the filling, pressing seams to seal.
  7. Pour the melted butter over the top layer, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Mix 1/2 cup sugar with the cinnamon and sprinkle the mixture generously over the top.
  9. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and the center is set.
  10. Let cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. For best results, chill for 1 hour before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a thin layer of fruit preserves between the filling and top crust.

You can also sprinkle chopped nuts on top for a crunchy texture.

This dessert can be served warm or chilled.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 35

FAQs

Can I make Crescent Rolls Cheesecake in advance?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Once baked, let it cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavor and texture actually improve after a few hours in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings or busy days.

Do I have to use crescent roll dough from a can?
For convenience, refrigerated crescent roll dough is ideal. However, if you prefer homemade dough, you can substitute it, provided it’s rolled thin and stays soft during baking. The key is to ensure it creates a flaky, tender crust around the filling.

Can I freeze Crescent Rolls Cheesecake?
Absolutely. After baking and cooling, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can warm slices slightly before serving if preferred.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in the filling slightly (try using 3/4 cup instead of 1 cup), especially if you’re adding sweet toppings like fruit preserves or syrups.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works, but the texture may be slightly less creamy. Avoid fat-free versions for best results.

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