Cream Cheese Squares Recipe

Name: Cream Cheese Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough; 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened; 1.25 cups white sugar, divided; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.5 cup margarine, melted; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cups white sugar, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Step 3: Unroll one can of crescent rolls and press the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set the second can aside.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the mixture evenly over the crescent dough layer in the pan.

Step 5: Unroll the second can of crescent rolls and place the dough on top of the cream cheese mixture. Do not press it down.

Step 6: Pour the melted butter evenly over the entire pan.

Step 7: In a small bowl, combine the remaining cup of sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the dough.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is crisp and golden.

Step 9: Allow the dish to cool. Once cooled, cut into 24 squares and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	213
Total Fat	14g (18%)
Saturated Fat	6g (29%)
Cholesterol	21mg (7%)
Sodium	246mg (11%)
Total Carbohydrate	18g (7%)
Dietary Fiber	0g (0%)
Total Sugars	12g
Protein	3g (6%)
Calcium	17mg (1%)
Iron	1mg (4%)
Potassium	25mg (1%)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Cream Cheese Squares Recipe

Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful, simple-to-make dessert that blends the creamy richness of cream cheese with the golden, flaky texture of crescent roll dough. These squares are a quick and easy way to satisfy a sweet tooth, making them a popular choice for family gatherings, brunches, and dessert tables. This recipe combines the classic flavors of cream cheese, cinnamon, and sugar to create an irresistible treat that has gained widespread popularity.

Origin and History

The origins of Cream Cheese Squares can be traced back to the mid-20th century in the United States, where crescent rolls, a convenient pre-made dough product, became widely available. The use of crescent rolls in baking made it easier for home cooks to create delicious pastries and desserts without needing to make dough from scratch. The idea of combining cream cheese and cinnamon sugar with crescent roll dough likely emerged from the popularity of sweet cream cheese pastries, often served in European and American bakeries. Over time, this simple yet flavorful recipe became a beloved dessert in many households, especially for its ease of preparation and versatility.

Regional Variations

While Cream Cheese Squares are widely loved across the United States, they have regional variations depending on the ingredients and personal preferences. In the South, for example, it is common to add extra layers of fruit preserves, such as apricot or strawberry, on top of the cream cheese layer, creating a fruity twist. Some cooks even incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts, which add a delightful crunch to the soft, creamy texture. In the Midwest, these squares are often served as part of a larger dessert spread at family gatherings or church picnics, where their simplicity and universal appeal make them a hit with all ages.

Comparison to Similar Dishes

Cream Cheese Squares share similarities with other cream cheese-based desserts, such as cheesecake bars and Danish pastries. However, what sets Cream Cheese Squares apart is the use of crescent roll dough as the base and topping, which provides a flakier and lighter texture compared to the more dense and rich crusts used in traditional cheesecakes. This contrast in texture makes Cream Cheese Squares less heavy and more approachable for those who want a lighter, quicker dessert. Additionally, the cinnamon sugar topping adds a layer of flavor that you won't typically find in other cream cheese desserts.

Where to Serve Cream Cheese Squares

Cream Cheese Squares are versatile and can be served at a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, bringing a dish to a potluck, or looking for a quick after-dinner treat, these squares are a crowd-pleaser. They are perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or as a sweet snack to accompany coffee or tea. Their bite-sized portions make them ideal for sharing, and they can easily be cut into smaller squares for serving at parties or events. These squares are also a great choice for meal prep, as they keep well in the fridge for several days, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes.

Fun Facts

Some variations of Cream Cheese Squares include adding fruit preserves, like blueberry or strawberry, for an extra burst of flavor.
In some recipes, bakers swap the crescent roll dough for puff pastry or even biscuit dough for different textures and flavors.
Many home cooks experiment with the cream cheese filling by adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
These squares are often praised for being an easy dessert to make with minimal ingredients, making them perfect for beginner bakers.
While traditionally sweet, some adventurous cooks have tried savory versions, swapping out the sugar and cinnamon for herbs and cheese.

FAQ about Cream Cheese Squares Recipe

Yes, you can prepare these squares ahead of time. Once baked and cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Yes, these Cream Cheese Squares freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm.

To prevent a soggy bottom, try prebaking the bottom layer of crescent dough for 8-10 minutes before adding the cream cheese mixture. This helps ensure the crust is crisp.

Yes, you can use puff pastry, biscuit dough, or even phyllo dough instead of crescent roll dough. Keep in mind that baking times might vary depending on the type of dough used.

You can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta cheese or mascarpone for a different texture and flavor. Additionally, for a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese.

Absolutely! You can add fruit on top of the cream cheese layer, such as berries, sliced apples, or cherry pie filling. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra texture and flavor.

Yes, you can substitute the sugar with alternatives like monk fruit sweetener, stevia, or erythritol. Make sure to adjust the amount to your taste preference, as some sweeteners can be sweeter than sugar.

If the dough is sticky, lightly flour your work surface or use a parchment paper to roll it out. You can also chill the dough for a few minutes before working with it to make it easier to handle.

If the squares are not cooking evenly, you may want to check if your oven temperature is correct. Sometimes, using glass pans can cause uneven cooking, so a metal pan might help. You can also cover the top with aluminum foil and bake for a little longer if needed.

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares for up to 2 months.

Comments

Raymond Torres

06/07/2023 01:59:47 AM

I absolutely adored this recipe! I put my own twist on it by making the cream cheese layer with a blend of Splenda, and then experimented with different variations. I tried spreading apricot, blueberry, blackberry, or strawberry sugar-free preserves over the cream cheese layer before adding the crescent dough, butter, and a sprinkle of Splenda blend on top. It was a huge hit over the holidays - I had to make it three times in just two days because everyone loved it so much! No one could even tell it was sugar-free. The fruit toppings really added a delicious kick, especially the blueberry and apricot ones. For the apricot version, I crushed 1/2 cup of pecans and sprinkled them on top with cinnamon and Splenda blend, and it was heavenly. It was even better the next day, if you can believe it! I'm considering trying a savory version with no sugar, maybe using a packet of Hidden Valley Ranch powder, bacon, and sundried tomatoes. I might even add butter and Parmesan on top. I'll keep you posted on how it turns out!

Sharon Taylor

11/22/2023 06:15:28 PM

As a Southerner with a strong sweet tooth, this recipe captured my heart. I've prepared it numerous times and it has never failed to impress. The only hiccup I encountered was when I deviated from using an aluminum pan. Opting for a glass dish resulted in uneven cooking, leaving the bottom layer of dough disappointingly undercooked. Stick to an aluminum pan for perfect results every time!

Sharon King

06/13/2024 12:20:37 AM

I followed the advice of others and decided to elevate this recipe to another level. Everyone who has tasted it has fallen in love with it and they keep asking me to make more. I purchased 8x8x2" aluminum baking pans with lids from Amazon and divided the basic recipe between the two pans. Additionally, I took a 21 oz can of cherry pie filling and spread it over the cream cheese layer. To balance out the tartness of the cherries, I sprinkled powdered confectioners sugar on top before adding the remaining crescent roll topping. I then followed the original recipe with melted margarine, sugar/cinnamon, and baked it in the oven. I used a mixer to break down the cherry pie filling with large cherries. The end result was a richer and more indulgent dessert. My friends and family enthusiastically loved the modifications I made. Give it a try! You can also swap the cherry pie filling for a 21 oz can of apple pie filling, which works just as well. Absolutely delicious!

Samantha Cruz

11/14/2024 06:56:56 AM

Fantastic and easy recipe for a delicious treat! I made some tweaks based on feedback. I prebaked the bottom layer for 10 minutes to prevent it from getting soggy. In the filling, I used the full amount of cream cheese and sugar, but I also added two eggs and 1/2 tsp of lemon extract for extra flavor and a lighter texture. For the topping, I used a generous half cup of butter along with the specified sugar and cinnamon quantities, and it turned out perfectly! The butter and sugar caramelized beautifully, creating a delightful crust; I recommend keeping the amounts as is. I opted for sweet Hawaiian crescent rolls instead of plain ones, which added a lovely touch. These treats are not only super tasty but also visually appealing. I will definitely be making them again!

Justin Edwards

02/28/2025 05:04:13 AM

I tried making this again this afternoon with some modifications. I added an egg to the cream cheese mixture, increased the sugar to a heaping half cup, and included 1 tablespoon of lemon zest in addition to the vanilla extract. I poured this mixture over the first layer of rolls. For the second layer, I topped the rolls with melted butter (1 tablespoon), sprinkled sugar (1/4 cup), and cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon). I baked it in a 12" x 8" glass pan for 30 minutes. After letting it cool for about 30 minutes, I sliced a small piece and it tasted heavenly - not overly sweet, and the addition of the egg gave the dessert a cheesecake-like filling. Highly recommend trying this recipe!

Rachel Collins

12/21/2023 04:58:56 PM

After reading some reviews, I decided to make a few modifications to the recipe. I opted for puff pastry instead and used 1/2 cup of monk fruit sweetener, 1 egg, and an equal amount of butter. I sprinkled some cinnamon on the bottom pastry, added the cream cheese filling, placed the second pastry on top, drizzled butter over it, and brushed it evenly with a pastry brush. I sprinkled some more cinnamon on top before baking it in the oven for 30 minutes, turning it halfway through and adding some sugar on top towards the end. The end result was fantastic – the dessert turned out delicious, and the crust had a lovely, buttery texture.

Jennifer Martin

11/11/2024 06:46:32 PM

Instead of using the usual cinnamon topping, I decided to switch things up by layering Solo Cherry filling between crescent rolls and sprinkling baking sugar on top. The result was a massive hit!

William Carter

12/19/2024 09:36:48 PM

I made this recipe using reduced fat crescent rolls and low fat cream cheese. I decided to use only 1/2 cup of sugar in the cream cheese mixture and it turned out perfect. I heated about 3/4 cup of strawberry jam with a splash of lemon juice in the microwave and spread it over the cream cheese layer. Instead of 4 tablespoons of butter to brush on top, I found that using 3 tablespoons, as suggested by others, was enough. I added a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar, as well as a little raw sugar for extra flavor. Baking it in a 9 x 13 glass pan, it took about 27 minutes in my oven. The end result was absolutely delicious and just perfect.

Jonathan Williams

01/24/2023 05:12:16 AM

Very straightforward! I found the cream cheese filling a bit overwhelming in this recipe, hence the 4-star rating. However, I understand that some might enjoy the abundance of cream cheese. I had previously tried a similar recipe from the cookbook "Rock Your Rolls," which called for half the amount of cream cheese filling. We preferred that ratio of cream cheese to crust, so I decided to use just one 8 oz package of cream cheese, halved the sugar and vanilla, and added cinnamon and sugar on top, along with chopped pecans. I've experimented with various toppings like canned cherry pie filling and my own thickened stewed apples on top of the cream cheese layer, both delicious. To ensure the bottom crust baked through properly in my oven, I needed the full 30 minutes of baking time.

Paul Lopez

04/04/2023 09:08:36 PM

Wow, what an amazing recipe! Thank you for sharing it! I have made this recipe numerous times now, and I am continually impressed by how versatile it is. Here are a few variations I've tried: 1) using cream cheese as a base and topping it with fresh blueberries, 2) reducing the sugar in the cream cheese to 1/2 cup and adding a tablespoon of sugar to the melted butter, 3) dusting the dough with coconut flour (you can also use almond or hazelnut flour) for an extra burst of flavor, 4) omitting the cream cheese and using a favorite chocolate bar instead. The options are endless! The end result truly tastes like a pastry! I like to cut it into squares and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. When I want to enjoy it, I simply toast it in a pan to warm it up. Thank you for this wonderful recipe - it's a fantastic way to have a delicious treat on hand that seems much more elaborate than it actually is. It delivers a croissant-like pastry taste without all the effort!

Katherine Johnson

07/16/2023 12:45:31 PM

Rewritten review: The flavors were absolutely delicious! Despite not being experienced in cooking, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. The top of the dish had a beautiful crisp and light brown texture, however, the bottom was undercooked and very doughy. I placed it back in the oven, covering the top, and managed to bake the bottom well enough, but I would have preferred it to be a bit firmer. I removed it from the oven to prevent the top from burning. For the seasoned cooks out there, do you think it's possible to pre-cook the bottom, then add the cream cheese and follow the rest of the instructions? I did take the advice of others and added some fruit on top of the cream cheese, but I'm unsure if that contributed to the undercooked bottom. Setting aside the bottom issue, the dish was superb, and I will definitely make it again! Simply delicious!