If you’re looking for a truly delightful treat that combines creamy sweetness with a buttery, cinnamon-kissed crust, this Cream Cheese Squares Recipe is an absolute winner. Soft, tender layers of crescent dough sandwich a smooth, rich cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth, while a golden, cinnamon-sugar topping adds just the right amount of crunch and spice. It’s a simple yet decadent dessert that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a quiet moment of comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Cream Cheese Squares Recipe is easy because the ingredients are straightforward and each one plays a special role in creating the final magic. From flaky crescent roll dough to the luscious cream cheese filling, every component complements the others perfectly.
- Crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8-ounce each): Provides a flaky, buttery base and top layer that bakes up golden and crisp.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, 8-ounce each): The star of the filling, offering a smooth texture and rich flavor.
- White sugar (1 cup plus 1/4 cup): Sweetens both the filling and the cinnamon topping for balanced flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the creamy filling.
- Margarine or butter, melted (1/2 cup): Pours over the top dough layer for a rich, golden finish.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Sprinkled on top for that irresistible spice note that pairs perfectly with sugar.
How to Make Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This ensures your cream cheese squares will bake evenly and won’t stick when it’s time to slice and serve.
Step 2: Lay Down the First Crescent Dough Layer
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it firmly but gently across the bottom of the prepared pan. This forms the sturdy yet flaky base that holds the luscious filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, 1 cup of white sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture well until it’s completely smooth and creamy, free of lumps. This filling will bake into a velvety layer that’s utterly delicious.
Step 4: Spread the Filling
Evenly spread the prepared cream cheese mixture over the crescent dough base, smoothing it out so every bite is creamy and consistent.
Step 5: Add the Top Crescent Dough Layer
Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the cream cheese layer. Press it down lightly to ensure it’s evenly distributed, creating the top crust.
Step 6: Butter and Sprinkle
Pour the melted margarine or butter evenly over the top dough. In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and 1/4 cup sugar, then sprinkle this heavenly mixture generously on top. This topping will caramelize beautifully while baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the squares as the top turns golden and crispy, signaling they’re ready to come out of the oven.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Remove your creation from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature. Cooling sets the layers, making it easier to slice. Cut into generous squares and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, consider dusting your cream cheese squares with powdered sugar right before serving or adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries also brighten the dish and add a lovely contrast.
Side Dishes
These squares pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making for an ideal breakfast or afternoon snack. You can also serve them alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness with some acidity and freshness on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering your Cream Cheese Squares Recipe in a pretty serving dish, or cut the squares into triangles for an appealing finger-food presentation at parties. Placing each square on a colorful plate with a sprig of mint adds charm and invites guests to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cream cheese squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep them covered to preserve moisture and prevent the cinnamon topping from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these squares freeze beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your cream cheese squares warm, simply thaw frozen pieces overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the topping is crisp again. Microwaving is also fine for a quick fix but may soften the crust slightly.
FAQs
Can I use regular pie dough instead of crescent roll dough?
While you can try pie dough, crescent roll dough provides a unique flaky and buttery texture that’s essential for this Cream Cheese Squares Recipe. Pie dough might result in a less tender final product.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
To adapt for dairy-free diets, use dairy-free cream cheese and margarine substitutes. Just make sure the crescent roll dough you choose is also dairy-free for the best results.
Can I add fruit to the filling?
Absolutely! Mixing in fresh or frozen berries with the cream cheese filling adds a fruity twist that complements the cinnamon sugar topping nicely. Just be mindful of extra moisture that may affect baking times.
How do I prevent the top from getting too brown?
If you find the topping browns too quickly, tent the pan loosely with foil halfway through the baking time. This helps the squares cook through without burning the cinnamon sugar topping.
Can I make smaller or larger batches?
Yes, this Cream Cheese Squares Recipe is versatile. Simply adjust the quantities and use pans that fit the amount you’re making, but keep the baking time similar, checking for doneness as you go.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Squares Recipe is a gorgeous balance of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dessert brings warmth, sweetness, and a little bit of magic to the table. Give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously creamy and sweet cream cheese squares made with flaky crescent roll dough, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a cinnamon-sugar topping. Perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
Filling
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare bottom dough layer: Roll out one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid base.
- Make cream cheese filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, 1 cup of white sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Spread filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent dough layer in the pan, ensuring full coverage.
- Add top dough layer: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the cream cheese mixture. Press gently to seal and even out the layer.
- Apply melted margarine: Pour the melted margarine or butter evenly over the top layer of dough to help it brown and add richness during baking.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar topping: In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and 1/4 cup white sugar. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the melted butter on top of the dough layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cream cheese squares to cool on a wire rack until they reach room temperature to set properly.
- Slice and serve: Once cooled, slice into squares and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dessert!
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened before mixing for a smoother filling.
- You can substitute margarine with butter for a richer taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For extra crispiness, bake a few extra minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
- These squares are perfect served chilled or at room temperature.
