Name: Irresistible Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole
Ingredients: 2 cans (8 ounces each) crescent roll dough: This flaky pastry forms the essential layers of this casserole, providing a buttery and light texture that complements the rich filling.; 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, cream cheese gives the casserole its creamy, rich consistency. Ensure it is at room temperature for easier mixing.; 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of the cream cheese, crafting the quintessential cheesecake flavor.; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and complexity to the filling.; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: This ingredient not only provides richness but also helps the sugar and cinnamon adhere to the top of the casserole.; 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Helps create a slight sweetness and a lovely caramelized layer on top.; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, inviting spice that perfectly complements the filling.; Powdered sugar for dusting: This finishing touch adds a whimsical, elegant appearance.; Fresh berries or fruit compote: Fresh fruits enhance both the flavor and presentation, adding a touch of freshness and color.; Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert to new heights, introducing lightness with every bite.

Description

Delight in the creamy and flaky goodness of Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole—a simple yet irresistible dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans (8 ounces each) crescent roll dough: This flaky pastry forms the essential layers of this casserole, providing a buttery and light texture that complements the rich filling.
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, cream cheese gives the casserole its creamy, rich consistency. Ensure it is at room temperature for easier mixing.
1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of the cream cheese, crafting the quintessential cheesecake flavor.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and complexity to the filling.

For the topping:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: This ingredient not only provides richness but also helps the sugar and cinnamon adhere to the top of the casserole.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Helps create a slight sweetness and a lovely caramelized layer on top.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, inviting spice that perfectly complements the filling.

Optional garnishes can include:

Powdered sugar for dusting: This finishing touch adds a whimsical, elegant appearance.
Fresh berries or fruit compote: Fresh fruits enhance both the flavor and presentation, adding a touch of freshness and color.
Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert to new heights, introducing lightness with every bite.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This temperature ensures even baking and helps achieve a golden top.
Prepare the base layer by unrolling one can of crescent roll dough. Roll it out and press it into the bottom of the greased baking dish, ensuring to seal any seams for a uniform layer. This forms the foundation of your casserole.
Make the cheesecake filling by placing 2 packages of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat them together until smooth and creamy, avoiding lumps which could affect the texture.
Assemble the casserole by spreading the cheesecake filling evenly over the crescent roll base. Open the second can of crescent dough, unroll it, and carefully lay it over the cheesecake filling. Pinch the seams together to enclose the filling securely.
Add the topping by brushing the melted butter (1/4 cup) over the top layer of crescent dough. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough. This will create a delicious sweet and spiced crust.
Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and slightly puffed. The visual cue here is a lovely golden color that indicates doneness.
Cool and serve! After removing from the oven, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes. Slice into squares, and it can be enjoyed warm, chilled, or at room temperature! Serve with optional garnishes like whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra touch.