Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that is easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress, these Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect choice. With a rich cream cheese filling sandwiched between layers of buttery crescent dough, topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar crust, these bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a party, or just a cozy night at home, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details and get started on this irresistible treat!

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

These Cream Cheese Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. The combination of creamy, tangy cheese and buttery, flaky dough, finished with a cinnamon-sugar topping, makes for a unique dessert that pleases both adults and children alike. Perfect for novice bakers, this recipe is quick and doesn’t require any special skills or equipment. Plus, these bars can be customized with various flavorings and toppings, making them versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Bars

To make these delicious Cream Cheese Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 16 ounces refrigerated crescent roll dough sheets (two 8-ounce cans)
• 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (small and large)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment
• Pastry brush
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent the bars from sticking.

2. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Stir well to mix and set aside. This will be used for the delicious topping later.

3. Prepare the Bottom Crescent Layer:
Open one can of the crescent roll dough. If you’re using crescent rolls, press all the seams together on a cutting board or work surface to form a solid sheet. Lay this sheet of dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, pressing it evenly to form the base.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, add 16 ounces of cream cheese (at room temperature), 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment to beat the mixture on medium speed until it is smooth, fluffy, and well combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom crescent dough layer.

5. Add the Top Crescent Layer:
Open the second can of crescent dough. Gently lay the dough over the cream cheese layer, making sure not to press it down. This top layer should cover the cream cheese filling completely.

6. Brush with Butter and Add Cinnamon Sugar:
Melt 5 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to brush the melted butter evenly over the top crescent layer. Sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough to create a sweet and crispy topping.

7. Bake Until Golden Brown:
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown and the edges are crisp. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.

8. Slice and Serve:
Once cooled, cut the bars into 24 squares and serve them as a delicious dessert or snack. Enjoy the creamy, buttery goodness with a hot cup of coffee or tea!

Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Bars

• Ensure Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly, creating a lump-free filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Mix just until the ingredients are combined and fluffy to avoid incorporating too much air.
• Even Dough Layers: Ensure both crescent layers are evenly placed and pressed to avoid gaps or uneven baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy filling. Make sure it’s fully softened at room temperature.
• Overbaking the Bars: Watch the bars closely while baking. Overbaking can make the crescent dough too hard.
• Not Letting the Bars Cool Completely: Cutting while hot can cause the filling to ooze out. Patience is key for perfectly set bars.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Cut into Different Shapes: Instead of squares, consider cutting into triangles or diamond shapes for a more elegant presentation.
• Add a Garnish: Dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
• Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or fruit slices to complement the creamy and buttery flavors.

How to Store Cream Cheese Bars

To store any leftover cream cheese bars:

• Refrigerate: Place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they are completely cool before refrigerating.
• Freeze: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Creative Variations and Substitutions

• Add a Fruit Twist: Mix in a few tablespoons of your favorite fruit preserves or fresh fruit pieces like blueberries or strawberries into the cream cheese mixture.
• Try a Different Flavor: Substitute vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a unique flavor profile.
• Use Flavored Dough: Look for crescent roll dough that has a flavor twist, such as garlic or herb, for a savory version.

FAQs About Cream Cheese Bars

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or light cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy.

What if I don’t have crescent dough?
You can use puff pastry sheets as a substitute, but note that the texture will be flakier and less buttery.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are great for making ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator and cut them when ready to serve.

conclusion

These Cream Cheese Bars are a fantastic recipe to have in your dessert repertoire. Easy to make, versatile, and utterly delicious, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes that you’ll love.

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