If you’re searching for a delightful, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both simple and irresistibly tasty, look no further than this Cream Cheese Squares Recipe. Imagine flaky, buttery layers of crescent roll dough hugging a luscious, creamy filling sweetened just right with vanilla and sugar, all crowned by a cinnamon-sugar crunch on top. Each bite offers a perfect balance of richness, sweetness, and a touch of spice that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re making these for a party, breakfast treat, or just because, this recipe promises to become a fast favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but come together to create a perfect texture and flavor combination. Each plays its part, from the tender, golden layers of crescent dough to the smooth, sweet cream cheese center and the warm cinnamon topping.
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides a flaky, buttery base and top layer that bakes to golden perfection.
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese: The star of the filling, delivering creamy richness with a slight tang.
- 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just enough to balance its richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- 1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted: Creates a crispy, golden finish when poured over the top dough layer.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Combines with cinnamon to form a crunchy, flavorful topping.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides warm spice that complements the sweet and creamy layers beautifully.
How to Make Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to ensure your cream cheese squares come out clean and easy to slice. This prep step lays the foundation for easy baking and cleanup.
Step 2: Press the First Layer of Crescent Roll Dough
Open one can of crescent roll dough and gently unroll it. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan, forming a smooth and even base. This layer will give you that irresistibly flaky bottom crust that’s just the right amount of soft and crisp.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, 1 cup of white sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until completely smooth and well combined. This luscious filling brings a creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor that’s absolutely dreamy inside the delicate dough layers.
Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Evenly spread your cream cheese filling over the crescent dough layer in the pan. Take a moment to smooth it out, making sure every bit of the base is covered for a consistent bite of sweetness in every square.
Step 5: Add the Second Dough Layer
Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and gently place it over the cream cheese filling. Press it down lightly but evenly, making sure the filling is sealed between two layers of dough. This top layer will bake up golden and crisp, holding everything together beautifully.
Step 6: Pour Melted Butter and Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
Drizzle the melted butter or margarine evenly over the top dough layer. Then, mix together the cinnamon and remaining 1/4 cup of sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle this fragrant cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the buttered dough to create a crunchy, flavorful topping that finishes the squares perfectly.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Watch for that top layer turning a beautiful golden brown and getting crispy on the edges. Once baked, remove the pan and let your Cream Cheese Squares cool on a wire rack to room temperature. Cooling is essential for clean slicing and enjoying the full flavors.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
After the squares have cooled, cut them into 12 even pieces. These Cream Cheese Squares burst with creamy, sweet layers contrasted with a buttery, cinnamon crunch—perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
Garnishes
While these squares shine beautifully on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can add a lovely touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also pair wonderfully for a more indulgent presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve your Cream Cheese Squares with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a rich latte for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack experience. They also complement fresh fruit or a crunchy salad if served during brunch or a light dessert course.
Creative Ways to Present
Change things up by cutting the squares into bite-sized finger foods for parties or layering them in a dessert trifle with fruit and whipped cream. You can even experiment by swirling a bit of fruit jam into the cream cheese mixture before baking for a fun twist on this classic recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover cream cheese squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for up to a week. Refrigeration helps maintain freshness and keeps the cream cheese filling safe to enjoy.
Freezing
These squares freeze wonderfully for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to enjoy that fresh-baked taste again.
Reheating
To reheat, place the squares on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the crust re-crisps. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough gummy instead of flaky.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of low-fat?
Absolutely! Regular cream cheese will provide a richer, creamier filling. Low-fat versions can work but may affect the texture slightly, making it less creamy.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, butter is a perfect substitute and will give your cream cheese squares even more flavor and richness. Just melt it before drizzling on top as directed.
Is it necessary to use refrigerated crescent roll dough?
The refrigerated crescent roll dough is key for the flaky, buttery texture that makes this dessert so special. Pre-made dough also saves you time and effort.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free crescent roll dough products. Keep in mind the baking times might vary slightly.
How long do these cream cheese squares keep fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to a week. For best taste and texture, consume within a few days.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Squares Recipe is a total winner for anyone who loves simple baking with impressive results. It’s a fantastic mix of creamy, sweet, and buttery flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try it soon, and watch it become one of your go-to treats to share with friends and family. Once you do, you’ll keep coming back to this delicious, comforting delight again and again.
Print
Cream Cheese Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Cream Cheese Squares featuring a buttery crescent roll crust layered with a smooth cream cheese filling, topped with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and baked to golden perfection. A perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base and Topping
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Filling
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Bottom Layer: Roll out one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a uniform 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 creamy.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent roll 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 layer, pressing gently to cover the filling completely.
- Apply Butter Layer: Pour the melted margarine or butter evenly over the top dough layer to add moisture and help the topping stick.
- Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and 1/4 cup sugar, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the melted butter on top.
- 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 baked squares from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack to room temperature for easier slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the cooled dessert into 12 squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious cream cheese squares!
Notes
- You can substitute margarine with butter for a richer flavor.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- For a twist, try adding a small amount of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature based on your preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
