Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Crisp, golden layers of crescent dough cradle a rich, velvety cheesecake filling, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and effortless. These Cheesecake Crescent Rolls bring the indulgence of cheesecake into a warm, handheld pastry perfect for brunch, dessert, or a sweet midnight treat.

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfect Balance: The contrast between the buttery, flaky crust and the creamy, slightly tangy filling is irresistible.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Reward: No water baths or long chilling times—just a few simple steps for a bakery-quality result.
• Customizable: Elevate the classic version with fresh berries, citrus zest, or a drizzle of chocolate.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but adds brightness)

For Assembly:

• 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or cinnamon sugar, for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, blending until fully incorporated. The mixture should be creamy but thick enough to hold its shape.

2. Roll and Fill

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Place a generous teaspoon of the cheesecake filling at the wider end of each triangle. Gently roll from the wide end to the tip, enclosing the filling as much as possible.

3. Brush and Sprinkle

Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each roll lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar or cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of caramelized sweetness.

4. Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. The exterior should be crisp, while the filling remains creamy.

5. Serve Warm

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. For an added touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a quick vanilla glaze.

Expert Tips for the Best Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

• Use Cold Dough: Crescent dough is easiest to handle when slightly chilled.
• Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst open while baking.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cheesecake filling or mix in mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container and warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

These Cheesecake Crescent Rolls transform simple ingredients into a decadent treat with minimal effort. Whether enjoyed with coffee at breakfast or as a sweet bite after dinner, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite.