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.