If you’ve been on the hunt for a dessert that’s delightfully creamy, buttery, and just the right balance of sweet and cinnamony, then you’re going to adore this Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Squares Recipe. It’s that perfect treat that feels fancy yet comes together with pantry staples in a snap. Imagine luscious cream cheese layered between flaky, golden crescent roll dough, all topped with a cinnamon sugar glaze that’s crisp and irresistible. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or an impromptu get-together, these squares always vanish fast, leaving everyone asking for the recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple, and each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor combination. From creamy and smooth to sweet and slightly crunchy, these few essentials blend into an absolute crowd-pleaser.
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: The flaky, buttery base that creates those perfectly crisp layers.
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese: Adds a rich, velvety texture and tang to balance the sweetness.
- 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right without overpowering it.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic flavor notes.
- 1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted: Brushed over the top layer for golden color and luscious richness.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Combined with cinnamon to create that irresistible crunchy topping.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, spicy kick that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
How to Make Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Dough Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch pan to ensure those golden squares don’t stick. Then, unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan to form a beautiful dough base that will turn delightfully flaky as it bakes.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, blend the cream cheese with 1 cup of white sugar and the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and ready to spread. This filling is the heart of the squares—rich but not too sweet, perfectly balanced for every bite.
Step 3: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Evenly spread the creamy mixture over the pressed crescent dough layer. Take your time here to ensure smooth coverage—this layer will stay lovely and moist and give your dessert such a luscious texture contrast.
Step 4: Add the Second Dough Layer
Carefully unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and lay it over the cream cheese filling. Gently press it down so it adheres, creating a sealed package that will bake into a golden, flaky top crust.
Step 5: Apply the Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Pour the melted butter (or margarine) evenly over the top crust. Then mix the cinnamon with the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar in a small bowl and sprinkle it generously over the buttery surface. This topping will caramelize beautifully, adding crisp sweetness and a fragrant warmth.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is delightfully golden brown and crispy. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible by now!
Step 7: Cool and Slice
After baking, let the squares cool on a wire rack until they reach room temperature. This step is important so the cream cheese layer sets slightly, making slicing easier and neater. Then, cut into squares and get ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Squares Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, dust your squares lightly with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of honey or a simple glaze on top. Fresh berries or a few mint leaves on the side can brighten up the presentation and add a fresh note to each bite.
Side Dishes
These cream cheese crescent roll squares shine on their own as a sweet treat but also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, a bowl of fresh fruit, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these squares into bite-sized appetizers by cutting them into smaller pieces and serving on a pretty platter with toothpicks. You can also assemble individual servings in small ramekins layered with a berry compote or whipped cream for a fun twist that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover squares should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them fresh and soft. If you want the crisp top to stay intact, avoid stacking the squares directly on top of each other.
Freezing
This Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Squares Recipe actually freezes really well. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to two months and make a quick go-to dessert whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat the squares gently in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that flaky golden crust and warm, creamy center. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of margarine?
Absolutely! Butter adds a richer flavor and a wonderful crispness to the topping. Just melt it the same way and follow the recipe as usual for excellent results.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy butter alternative, you can enjoy these squares without dairy. Just be sure to check that your crescent roll dough doesn’t contain milk products.
Can I add fruit to the filling?
While the classic recipe is delicious as is, you can fold in fresh or frozen berries into the cream cheese filling for a fruity twist. Just be careful not to add too much moisture, or the crust might get soggy.
What’s the best way to slice the squares neatly?
Use a sharp knife and slice while the dessert is fully cooled to room temperature. Wiping the knife clean between cuts helps keep the edges clean and prevents sticking.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
You can easily double the ingredients, but it’s best to bake in two separate pans rather than one very large pan to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Squares Recipe is a brilliant blend of comforting flavors and wonderfully easy prep that’s perfect for any occasion. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a go-to favorite in your recipe box. Gather your ingredients, roll out the dough, and get ready to create a dessert that’s every bit as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Trust me, your friends and family will thank you!
Print
Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Squares Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Delicious Cream Cheese Squares featuring a buttery, flaky crescent roll crust layered with a smooth, sweet cream cheese filling and a cinnamon sugar topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, this recipe offers a simple yet indulgent treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Dough Layer
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cream Cheese Filling
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Bottom Crust: Roll out one can of the refrigerated crescent roll dough evenly and press it firmly into the bottom of the greased baking pan to form the base layer.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of white sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent roll dough layer in the pan, making sure it covers the entire surface.
- Add Top Crust: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it carefully over the cream cheese mixture, gently pressing it down so it adheres to the filling.
- Apply Butter and Topping: Pour the melted margarine or butter evenly across the top layer of dough. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and 1/4 cup white sugar then sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the melted butter.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cream cheese squares to cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature.
- Serve: Once cooled, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious, creamy, cinnamon-topped squares!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing for a smooth filling.
- You can substitute margarine with butter for richer flavor.
- For easier slicing, refrigerate the squares for 30-60 minutes after baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- These squares can be warmed slightly before serving for a freshly baked taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
