If you love the cozy warmth of cinnamon rolls but crave the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then you are absolutely going to adore this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It combines that irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl with a luscious cheesecake filling all layered between buttery crescent roll dough, creating a dessert that’s perfectly soft, creamy, and just sweet enough to satisfy any craving. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch or a special treat, these bars bring the best of both worlds in every bite and are surprisingly easy to whip up in under an hour!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is what makes this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe come to life. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering its signature flavor and texture — from the flaky crescent roll base to the smooth, tangy cheesecake layer and the optional sweet glaze that finishes it off beautifully.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The buttery and flaky base and top layers provide a golden crust that’s light yet holds everything together perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Adds classic sweetness and, paired with cinnamon, creates that iconic cinnamon roll flavor throughout the bars.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the bars with a warm, comforting spice essential for that authentic cinnamon roll taste.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, it contributes a creamy texture and slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- Egg: Acts as a binder for the cheesecake layer, ensuring it sets perfectly without cracking or drying out.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a subtle, sweet aromatic note.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For the glaze, it adds a delicate sweetness and finishing touch that glistens beautifully.
- Milk (optional): Thins out the glaze to just the right consistency for drizzling over the bars.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing or lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Unroll half of the crescent roll dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the pan, making sure to seal any seams. This will create a solid foundation that holds the creamy cheesecake layer beautifully.
Step 2: Add the First Cinnamon Sugar Layer
Mix together ¼ cup granulated sugar with a tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle half of this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the pressed dough base. This layer is key to achieving that classic cinnamon roll sweetness that every bite will remind you of.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, the large egg, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be free of lumps, silky, and ready to spread. Then, gently spread this luscious cheesecake filling over your cinnamon sugar-coated dough base, creating that velvety middle layer.
Step 4: Top With Dough and Cinnamon Sugar
Unroll the remaining crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the cheesecake layer, pressing gently to fit inside the pan. Next, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over this top dough layer. This not only adds flavor but also beautifully caramelizes during baking.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake your bars for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and the cheesecake center is set but still creamy. Once out of the oven, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan — this helps them firm up and makes slicing a breeze.
Step 6: Optional Glaze Drizzle
For an extra sweet touch, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to make a glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bars to add that classic glossy finish reminiscent of bakery cinnamon rolls.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe to the next level, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top just before serving. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also add a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
These bars are wonderfully rich on their own, but if you’re serving them for brunch, pair them with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of steaming coffee or chai tea. Their sweet and creamy flavor complements fruity or spiced beverages beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into small bite-sized squares and serve on a platter for parties or potlucks. You can also layer them in dessert parfait glasses with fresh fruit and whipped cream for an elegant twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy their creamy, cinnamon goodness even after the first day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, gently reheat your bars in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven (about 300°F) until just warmed through. This step revives their soft texture and melty cheesecake layer wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use homemade crescent roll dough instead of refrigerated dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dough will add a wonderful personal touch and can enhance flavor, but using refrigerated crescent dough keeps things quick and convenient without sacrificing taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free crescent roll dough substitute, you can enjoy this treat without gluten. Just ensure the dough you select bakes similarly for best results.
Can I substitute cream cheese with a lighter option?
While you can try lighter cream cheese versions, the texture and richness may be slightly compromised as the luxurious creaminess relies heavily on full-fat cream cheese.
How do I avoid the cheesecake layer cracking?
Mix your cheesecake filling until smooth but try not to overbeat it, and bake at the right temperature to prevent cracking. Cooling completely in the pan helps the bars set perfectly without cracks.
Can I add nuts or fruit to the bars?
Yes! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts can add crunch, or stirring in some raisins or dried cranberries can create a delicious variation. Just fold them into the cheesecake filling before layering.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe is truly a delightful blend of two beloved desserts that comes together effortlessly. Once you’ve made and tasted these bars, they’ll quickly become a cherished favorite to whip up for brunch gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any time you want to treat yourself. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch how everyone’s faces light up with each irresistible bite!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars that combine a flaky crescent roll base with a creamy cheesecake layer, all topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar glaze. Perfect for a comforting dessert or an impressive brunch treat.
Ingredients
For the cinnamon roll base:
- 1 (8 oz) tube refrigerated crescent roll dough or crescent sheet
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the cheesecake layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Form the base: Unroll half of the crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the baking pan, sealing any seams to create a continuous crust layer.
- Add cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the crescent dough base.
- Make cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread this cheesecake mixture over the cinnamon sugar base evenly.
- Top with dough and cinnamon sugar: Unroll the second half of the crescent roll dough and gently place it on top of the cheesecake layer, pressing lightly to fit. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the top dough layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake center is set. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare and add glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup powdered sugar, 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled bars before slicing.
- Serve: Slice into 9 bars and enjoy as a delicious dessert or snack.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a few chopped pecans or a swirl of cinnamon sugar inside the cheesecake layer before baking.
- Store leftover bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping them covered to maintain freshness.
- Ensure the bars cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
