If you’re looking for a dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and almost too easy to make, these Cream Cheese Squares are about to become your new favorite treat. With layers of flaky crescent roll dough wrapped around a smooth vanilla cream cheese filling, topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust, this dessert is as indulgent as it is simple. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or weeknight cravings, they come together with just a few pantry staples. If you loved our Cinnamon Cream Cheese Bars, this recipe is the next must-bake in your collection. Let’s whip up a batch of nostalgic, bakery-style comfort!
What are Cream Cheese Squares?
Cream Cheese Squares are a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert made with refrigerated crescent roll dough, sweetened cream cheese, and a cinnamon-sugar topping. The dough bakes up golden and flaky, while the cream cheese layer stays soft and rich—like a cheesecake-meets-pastry hybrid. Why are they a hit? Because they’re delicious, ridiculously easy, and always vanish fast. And like we say around here, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—especially when cream cheese is involved!
Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Squares
Dreamy Cream Cheese Filling
Sweet, smooth, and perfectly balanced with vanilla, the filling is rich without being overly heavy.
Easy Shortcut with Crescent Rolls
No homemade pastry required! Crescent dough gives you that golden, bakery-style finish in a fraction of the time.
Buttery Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Melted margarine and a sweet cinnamon-sugar mix create a crispy, caramelized finish you’ll want to devour.
If you’re a fan of our Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars, these are their simplified, just-as-satisfying cousin!
How to Make Cream Cheese Squares
Quick Overview
Just layer, mix, pour, and bake! It’s that easy. These bars come together in about 10 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of baking, and a little cool time.
Ingredients:
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups white sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup margarine, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- First Dough Layer:
- Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the greased pan.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread evenly over the dough layer.
- Top Dough Layer:
- Unroll second can of crescent dough and place it over the cream cheese filling. Do not press down.
- Add Topping:
- Pour melted margarine over the entire top layer.
- Mix remaining 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until top is golden and crisp.
- Cool before cutting into 24 squares.
What to Serve Cream Cheese Squares With
These bars are great with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. Dress them up with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant dessert. They’re also perfect for brunch tables or holiday dessert spreads.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cream Cheese Squares
- Use Room Temp Cream Cheese: It mixes more smoothly and evenly.
- Don’t Press Top Dough: Leaving it unpressed gives you that beautiful flaky crust.
- Cool Before Cutting: This helps the filling set and makes cleaner slices.
- Customize the Flavor: Try almond extract or a splash of lemon juice for a twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’re delicious cold, or you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm treat. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I use butter instead of margarine? Yes! Unsalted butter works perfectly and adds rich flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time? Definitely. Make a day in advance and chill overnight.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, though the filling may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Squares are the ultimate combination of ease and indulgence. With layers of flaky crescent dough and a sweet, creamy filling, they’re the perfect dessert for any occasion—from brunches to potlucks to late-night cravings. One bite and you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups white sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup margarine, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over dough.
- Unroll second can of crescent dough and lay over the cream cheese layer without pressing down.
- Pour melted margarine over the top layer. Mix remaining 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and crisp. Cool before cutting into 24 squares.
Notes
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling. Cool completely before slicing for the best texture. Try adding berries or a caramel drizzle for an elegant twist.
Cream Cheese Squares
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough 8 oz each
- 2 packages cream cheese softened, 8 oz each
- 1.25 cups white sugar divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup margarine melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over dough.
- Unroll second can of crescent dough and lay over the cream cheese layer without pressing down.
- Pour melted margarine over the top layer. Mix remaining 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and crisp. Cool before cutting into 24 squares.