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Creamy Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole

cheesecake crescent rolls casserole - featured image

This easy dessert casserole features layers of buttery crescent rolls and a creamy cheesecake filling, topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust. It’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion and comes together in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
  • 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Unroll one can of crescent dough and gently press it into the bottom of the prepared dish, pinching seams together to make one even layer.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar. Beat with a mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides.
  4. Add the egg, vanilla, and lemon zest (if using). Beat again until creamy and fully blended.
  5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crescent dough base and spread evenly to the edges.
  6. Unroll the second can of crescent dough and carefully lay it over the filling, pinching seams and edges together.
  7. Mix 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush melted butter over the top crescent layer, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is set but still slightly wobbly.
  9. Let the casserole cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to help the filling firm up.
  10. Slice into 12 squares and serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey before serving.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and real vanilla extract. Let cream cheese and egg come to room temperature for a smooth filling. Patch crescent dough as needed—appearance won’t affect taste. Add fresh berries to the filling for a fruity twist, or swap in gluten-free or dairy-free ingredients for dietary needs. The casserole slices best when cooled. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake casserole, crescent rolls, easy dessert, cinnamon sugar, potluck, brunch, creamy cheesecake, comfort food