Cream Cheese Bars with Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Cream Cheese Bars with Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful treat combines a flaky, buttery crescent roll crust speckled with cinnamon and sugar, topped with a luscious, creamy cream cheese layer that melts into sweetness. It’s simple to whip up yet offers rich flavors and a comforting texture that will quickly become a favorite for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a chilled snack, these bars are a spectacular treat that balances creaminess and spice beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Cream Cheese Bars with Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, from the buttery crescent rolls creating a flaky base to the cream cheese filling adding a smooth richness, while cinnamon and sugar bring warmth and sweetness that make every bite irresistible.

• Granulated sugar (1 1/4 cups, divided): Adds essential sweetness and helps create a lightly caramelized topping with the cinnamon.
• Cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons): Infuses the crust with a warm, aromatic spice that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
• Refrigerated crescent roll dough sheets (16 ounces): The secret to the flaky, buttery crust that’s both easy and impressive.
• Cream cheese (16 ounces, room temperature): Provides the velvety, tangy richness that forms the indulgent center layer.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Elevates the flavor of the cream cheese filling with sweet, fragrant notes.
• Butter (5 tablespoons): Adds moisture and richness to the crust, making it golden and tender.

How to Make Cream Cheese Bars with Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust

Begin by preheating your oven and greasing a suitable baking pan. Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough sheets and press them into one even layer forming the base of your bars. Melt the butter, then mix half of the granulated sugar and all the cinnamon together. Brush this cinnamon sugar butter over the dough evenly, so each bite bursts with that iconic sweet spice. This layer will bake into a flaky, flavorful crust that’s downright addictive.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the remaining granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This velvety filling is the heart of your bars, delivering a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the cinnamon crust. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for an easy, lump-free mixture.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon crescent roll crust, ensuring an even layer to keep every bite perfect. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake until the crust is golden and the filling sets slightly—usually about 25 to 30 minutes. Once out of the oven, let it cool completely; this resting time helps the bars firm up so they slice cleanly and hold their shape.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Bars with Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey over the top to add extra sweetness and an inviting appearance. For a bit of crunch and color, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be scattered on the finished bars. Fresh fruit like raspberries or sliced strawberries also creates a vibrant contrast while adding a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes

These cream cheese bars pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea, making them ideal for breakfast or afternoon tea. If you serve them as dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side turns this simple treat into an elegant indulgence. Freshly whipped cream is another classic accompaniment that enhances the creamy texture background of the bars.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into smaller bite-sized squares for a party platter or dessert table. Serve them layered with fresh fruit and yogurt parfaits for an elegant brunch offering. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine also makes for charming gifts or portable snacks for picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Cream Cheese Bars with Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust Recipe in an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, maintaining their soft, creamy texture and flaky crust. To prevent condensation, bring them to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to save these bars for longer, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for a fresh-baked taste.

Reheating

For a fresh-from-the-oven experience, warm the bars in a microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F for 5-7 minutes. This will revive the buttery crust and soften the cream cheese filling, bringing back their gooey, heavenly texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade crescent roll dough instead of refrigerated dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your liking. Just ensure it’s rolled out thin enough to create that signature flaky crust for the bars to bake evenly and crisp up beautifully.

Is it necessary to use room temperature cream cheese?

Yes, using cream cheese at room temperature is key for a smooth, lump-free filling. Cold cream cheese can lead to clumps and a denser texture that doesn’t spread evenly over the crust.

Can I add mix-ins to the cream cheese filling?

Definitely! You can fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even fresh fruit like blueberries to customize the bars. Just make sure any additions are evenly distributed and don’t overwhelm the cream cheese layer.

How thick should the crescent dough layer be?

Press the crescent dough sheets so they form one even layer about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness ensures the crust stays crisp yet tender without overpowering the delicate cream cheese topping.

What is the best way to cut these bars?

Use a sharp knife and cut the bars once they have cooled completely for clean slices. Wiping the knife blade between cuts helps prevent the cream cheese filling from sticking and keeps your bars looking neat.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cream Cheese Bars with Cinnamon Crescent Roll Crust Recipe inspires you to create a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s the perfect treat to share with friends and family, effortlessly blending easy preparation with unforgettable flavor. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for these bars over and over again.

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