These Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars strike the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. With a creamy cheesecake center nestled between layers of flaky crescent dough and topped with cinnamon-sugar, they’re a crowd-pleaser you can whip up with ease.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 12 bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses common refrigerated dough and pantry staples.
• Quick Assembly: From unrolling the dough to sprinkling cinnamon sugar, it comes together fast.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Enhances flavors as it chills, perfect for pre-planning desserts.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup salted butter, cut into pieces: Adds moisture and flavor to the crisp topping. Unsalted butter can be used with a pinch of salt.
• 2 cans (8 oz) refrigerated Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls (8 Count): Forms the flaky layers. If unavailable, use puff pastry as a substitute.
• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy, rich filling. Soften properly for easy mixing.
• 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens both the filling and acts as part of the topping. Consistent granules ensure even coverage.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances and rounds out flavor of the cream cheese filling. Vanilla extract or paste both work well.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice to the sugary topping. For variety, try pumpkin pie spice.

How to Make It

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan over low heat, dissolve the butter until completely melted. The low heat prevents any burning and allows for smooth pouring.

Step 2: Prepare the Bottom Crust

Unroll one can of crescent dough and stretch it to fit the bottom of an ungreased 13×9-inch baking dish. Seal any perforations by pressing them together to ensure an even layer.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar and vanilla using an electric mixer. Aim for a smooth consistency by scraping the bowl’s sides occasionally.

Step 4: Layer the Filling

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough base. This ensures every bite has a creamy component.

Step 5: Add the Top Crust

Unroll the second can of dough on parchment paper. Press seams together, then flip it over onto the filling, peeling away the parchment gradually to keep everything in place.

Step 6: Top and Bake

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top dough layer. Mix the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle generously over the buttered dough. Bake on the oven’s middle rack for 30 to 35 minutes until the bars are set.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the dish to cool for 30 minutes at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least another 30 minutes. This step helps set the filling, making cutting clean slices easier.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely, they taste even better once the flavors meld in the fridge. Prepare them a day in advance, store covered, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

Neufchâtel cheese works as a lower-fat substitute, providing a similar flavor and texture. Ensure it’s softened before mixing for the best results.

What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?

If crescent rolls aren’t available, puff pastry can be used. Ensure it’s rolled thinly and adjusted to the dish size for best results.