Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines flaky crescent roll layers with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling and a buttery cinnamon sugar crust. Inspired by the beloved New Mexican pastry, these bars are incredibly easy to prepare and offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors crispy, creamy, sweet, and a hint of spice. Whether for a casual family dessert or a special occasion, these bars are sure to become a fast favorite.

You will absolutely love how the buttery layers of crescent dough sandwich the rich cream cheese filling, all topped off with a sweet and crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust. The recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it an accessible yet impressive dessert option.

Ingredients

• 2 (8-ounce) tubes refrigerated crescent rolls (or crescent roll dough sheets)
• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Create Your Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Layer the Bottom Crescent Dough

Unroll one tube of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your baking dish. Be sure to seal perforations and press seams together to form a sturdy base for your filling. If using crescent roll sheets, simply lay one sheet flat and press it into the pan.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. This mixture should be creamy and spreadable.

Step 4: Spread the Filling

Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the bottom crescent dough layer. Smooth it out with a spatula to cover the dough completely.

Step 5: Add the Top Crescent Layer

Unroll the second tube of crescent dough and carefully place it on top of the cream cheese layer, pressing together seams and edges to ensure full coverage. If you’re using dough sheets, lay the second sheet on top, smoothing it out gently.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top dough layer. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture liberally over the butter-coated dough.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes. The bars should be golden brown on top and the cream cheese filling will be set but still moist inside.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Cool the bars in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes to firm up. For best results, refrigerate covered for a few hours or overnight to allow the bars to set fully before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

My Best Tips for Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese

Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly and prevents lumps in your filling. Remove it from the fridge an hour ahead or soften gently in the microwave if pressed for time.

Seal the Crescent Dough Seams

Be sure to press the perforations and seams tightly between layers to avoid gaps and maintain a solid structure as the bars bake.

Evenly Spread the Filling

Use an offset spatula to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly. This helps prevent uneven baking or gaps between layers.

Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese

Full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier, richer filling that holds its structure and flavor much better than low-fat versions.

Don’t Overbake

Baking until the top is golden and the center is just set prevents the cream cheese filling from drying out.

Refrigerate Before Serving

Chilling the bars improves slicing and enhances flavor as the ingredients meld.

Delicious Variations to Try

Swap the Crescent Dough

Try using crescent roll dough sheets for a more uniform crust, or puff pastry dough for an even flakier, buttery result.

Add Fruit Flair

Swirl in a few tablespoons of fruit preserves or spread a thin layer over the cream cheese before adding the top dough.

Nutty Crunch

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cinnamon sugar before baking for added texture.

Chocolate Twist

Add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a subtle, melty chocolate surprise in every bite.

Spice it up

Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to the cream cheese mixture for seasonal flair.

FAQs

How long do these bars keep?

Store covered in the fridge up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before serving.

Can I use frozen crescent dough?

Yes, just thaw according to package instructions before using.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

For a lighter version, try blending ricotta cheese with some yogurt, but texture may vary.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting baking time as needed.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely! They are soft, sweet, and creamy a kid-friendly favorite.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Use gluten-free crescent roll dough if available, or substitute with gluten-free puff pastry.

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