If you love desserts that strike the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and effortless preparation, Cream Cheese Squares will quickly become your new favorite. These irresistible little bars start with buttery layers of crescent roll dough, sandwiching a sweet and lusciously smooth cream cheese filling. Finished with a crisp cinnamon-sugar topping, every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether you’re baking for a potluck or a cozy family treat, this recipe delivers all the flavor of cheesecake with far less fuss, earning Cream Cheese Squares a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cream Cheese Squares is how incredibly simple the ingredient list is. Each component plays a crucial role, bringing either rich creaminess, sweet comfort, or the perfect bit of spice to this beloved dessert.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): This clever shortcut becomes a tender, flaky base and top layer, holding all the goodness within.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 oz each, softened): The heart of the filling, offering a velvety, tangy contrast to the sweet flavors.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup for filling, 1/4 cup for topping): Sweetens both the creamy interior and the crunchy cinnamon topping.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese and adds a subtle aromatic note.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Brushed over the top, the butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick and browns beautifully in the oven.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Mixed with sugar for that classic, cozy finish that makes each square so irresistible.
How to Make Cream Cheese Squares
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when you need it. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and gently press it into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Take the time to seal any seams—this forms your solid, sturdy foundation for the filling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and the vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and perfectly blended. This step is where all the luscious richness starts to come together!
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the crescent dough base in your pan, making sure every inch is covered. Next, unroll the second can of crescent dough and lay it gently on top of the creamy layer. Press the seams together carefully so the top is uniform and will bake up golden and crisp.
Step 4: Add the Buttery Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
Brush the melted butter evenly across the entire surface of the top layer of dough. In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the buttered dough for that signature sweet-crunchy finish.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden and crisp. Once done, let the pan cool completely — this gives the filling time to set, making it easier to cut clean, beautiful squares. For even neater slices, you can refrigerate the Cream Cheese Squares before serving.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Squares
Garnishes
While Cream Cheese Squares are fantastic on their own, a little flourish can make them even more special. Dust with a bit of extra cinnamon-sugar just before serving, or top each square with a dollop of whipped cream. For a citrusy zing, try grating fresh lemon or orange zest over each slice—it brings out the tang in the cream cheese filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since Cream Cheese Squares are rich and sweet, pairing them with something light and fresh works wonderfully. Serve alongside a simple fruit salad or some fresh berries for contrast. If you’re having them with coffee or tea, the creamy, spicy flavors are a match made in dessert heaven.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate your presentation for a special occasion, cut the squares into smaller bite-sized cubes and skewer them with fresh berries or mint leaves. You can also serve colder slices with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, or pile them up on a platter for an irresistible dessert buffet. Cream Cheese Squares are versatile enough to shine at any kind of gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, store any leftover Cream Cheese Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 5 days, and some might even find the texture gets even better as they chill. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking.
Freezing
If you want to make this treat ahead for a later date, Cream Cheese Squares freeze surprisingly well. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
These squares are best enjoyed chilled, but if you want to serve them slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. Warming brings back a hint of that freshly-baked softness, but be careful not to overheat, as the filling can get melty.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can swap in low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese if you prefer—the filling will still be creamy, though slightly less rich. The texture might be just a touch softer, but Cream Cheese Squares will still taste incredible.
Can I add fruit or other mix-ins to the filling?
Absolutely! Try folding in a handful of fresh blueberries, chopped strawberries, or even a little citrus zest for a fun flavor twist. Just remember that extra moisture can affect the texture, so don’t overdo the fruit.
What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
If crescent dough isn’t available, you can use prepared puff pastry sheets or even roll out a simple homemade pastry crust. The results will be a bit different, but still delicious and sure to satisfy any Cream Cheese Squares craving.
How do I get the cleanest slices?
For those Pinterest-perfect squares, let the pan cool completely and then chill in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, and you’ll have gorgeous slices every time.
Are these best served warm or cold?
There’s no wrong answer! Some people love Cream Cheese Squares warm from the oven, but letting them fully cool (and even chilling them) helps the filling firm up for a classic, cheesecake-like texture. Try both ways and see what you like best!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend these Cream Cheese Squares enough—they’re the kind of tried-and-true dessert you’ll find yourself making on repeat. Whether you share them at a party or savor them quietly with your coffee, this recipe always gets rave reviews. Give it a go, and let the simple, sweet magic win you over!
Print
Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these irresistible Cream Cheese Squares made with a buttery crescent roll crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a sweet cinnamon topping. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Dough:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Base: Press one can of crescent roll dough into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a crust.
- Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the dough.
- Add Top Layer: Place the second can of dough on top. Brush with melted butter.
- Add Topping: Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the dough.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool, then slice into squares.
Notes
- For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese filling.
- Chill squares before slicing for clean edges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
