Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe

I can’t wait to share this Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe with you because it’s one of those desserts that feels fancy but comes together so effortlessly. Imagine creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling wrapped in buttery, flaky crescent roll dough—it’s like a match made in dessert heaven. Whether you’re making a last-minute treat for company or just want something sweet and comforting for yourself, this recipe hits the spot every single time.

What I love most about this Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe is how versatile and forgiving it is. The cinnamon-butter topping caramelizes just right, giving it this incredible golden touch that makes every bite melt in your mouth. I’ve brought this to potlucks and know it’ll be devoured within minutes—seriously, give it a try and prepare to impress!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients—they’re simple and pantry-friendly, which makes this cheesecake a breeze to put together. Each item plays its part to balance richness, sweetness, and that irresistible cinnamon butter glaze that sets this recipe apart.

• Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for smooth mixing and a luscious texture.
• Sugar: Divided to sweeten both the filling and the butter topping just right—no overpowering sweetness here.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warm depth and aroma to the cheesecake filling.
• Refrigerated crescent rolls: The star of the crust—using canned crescents means you’re saving time without sacrificing flakiness.
• Butter: Melted and mixed with cinnamon and sugar for that dreamy, golden glaze on top.
• Cinnamon: Just enough spice to add warmth and a touch of fall vibes.

Variations

I like to switch things up depending on the season or what I have on hand. This Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe is so adaptable—you can make it your own with just a few tweaks.

• Berry Swirl: I’ve sometimes stirred in fresh or frozen berries into the cream cheese filling for an extra pop of color and tang. It brightens things up beautifully!
• Chocolate Lovers: Adding a handful of mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate syrup over the top before baking transforms it into a chocolate dream.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free crescent dough (available at specialty stores) works well too, so don’t let dietary needs stop you.
• Less Sweet: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, try cutting back the sugar slightly—this cheesecake is rich enough that you won’t miss it.

How to Make Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Cream Cheese Filling

The first step is to soften your cream cheese—take it out of the fridge about an hour before you start baking. Then, beat it together with 1 cup of sugar and vanilla extract until it’s silky smooth and no lumps remain. This step is crucial because a smooth filling is what makes every bite melt in your mouth. I like to use a hand mixer here, but a sturdy whisk also does the job if you’re patient.

Step 2: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll one can of the crescent rolls and press the dough into a greased 9×13 inch pan, pinching the seams together so it forms a solid base. This creates a buttery, flaky crust that holds all that creamy goodness. Pro tip: Don’t stretch the dough too thin—you want it sturdy enough to hold the filling without soaking up too much moisture.

Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese Layer

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent dough crust. Take your time here to smooth it out with a spatula, ensuring an even layer for baking. This helps in getting a consistent texture throughout the cheesecake—no one likes surprises of extra thick or thin spots!

Step 4: Top with Second Crescent Roll Layer

Now, unroll the second can of crescent rolls and layer it gently over the cream cheese filling, again pinching seams and edges together as needed. This sandwich-like structure seals in the creamy center and creates that beautiful golden top. Just be gentle so you don’t tear the dough and let the filling ooze out.

Step 5: Cinnamon Butter Glaze

Melt your butter on the stove or in the microwave, then stir together the remaining sugar and cinnamon. Pour this decadently sweet cinnamon butter mixture over the top of the assembled crescent rolls. This is where the magic happens—the butter soaks in and caramelizes during baking, creating a crispy, flavorful crust that’s pure joy.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end—oven times can vary, and you want that crisp cinnamon top without burning. Let it cool slightly before digging in, so those layers set perfectly.

How to Serve Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

I love to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top right after baking or add a dusting of powdered sugar for that elegant touch. Sometimes, a few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream make it feel extra special. These garnishes add a fresh or airy counterpoint to the dense, rich cheesecake.

Side Dishes

This Crescent Roll Cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving brunch, it’s also wonderful alongside fresh fruit salad or even a light spinach salad for a salty contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I slice this cheesecake into bite-sized squares and place them on a decorative platter with toothpicks—great for parties! Another fun twist is layering with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce just before serving for an indulgent finish that wows your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover leftover cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for about 4-5 days, and the flavors even improve a bit as the cinnamon butter melds with the filling. Just make sure to let it come to room temp before serving again to enjoy the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. From my experience, it freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, I gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This softens the cream cheese and revives the buttery crescent layers nicely. Avoid overheating or it might get too soft or soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crescent Roll Cheesecake Recipe holds a special place in my recipe box because it blends simplicity with indulgence in ways few desserts do. It’s my go-to when I want to impress without stress and honestly, it’s such a crowd-pleaser. I’m confident you’ll love making it as much as eating it—so grab those crescent rolls and cream cheese, and let your kitchen fill with buttery, cinnamon-sweet goodness!

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