Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars are a rich, indulgent dessert featuring layers of creamy cheesecake sandwiched between flaky crescent dough, topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust. They offer the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, and sweet, inspired by the classic Mexican sopapilla pastry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to make using simple ingredients, yet they taste bakery-level amazing. With a crisp cinnamon-sugar topping, a luscious cheesecake filling, and flaky layers, these bars are perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you crave a quick and impressive dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Crescent roll dough sheets
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Ground cinnamon

Optional:

• Honey for drizzling

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Unroll one sheet of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent dough layer.
5. Unroll the second sheet of crescent dough and place it carefully over the cheesecake layer.
6. Pour the melted butter over the top and spread evenly.
7. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together.
8. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the buttered dough.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
10. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. Drizzle with honey before serving if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12-16 bars, depending on how you slice them. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, baking requires 30-35 minutes, and chilling takes at least 2 hours. Total time is approximately 3 hours.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Version: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling.
• Fruit Twist: Add a layer of jam or fruit preserves over the cheesecake layer.
• Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Honey Glaze: Mix a little honey with powdered sugar and drizzle over the bars after baking.
• Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the cheesecake layer for a fall twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. They are not typically reheated, but if desired, you can microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds to slightly warm it.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, but using store-bought crescent dough makes the process much faster and easier.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely, they are perfect for making a day ahead and storing in the fridge.

Do I have to refrigerate Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars?

Yes, because of the cream cheese filling, they should be stored refrigerated.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but full-fat cream cheese provides the richest and creamiest texture.

How do I prevent the top dough from sliding?

Press the edges slightly down to help seal the top dough to the filling.

Can I add extra cinnamon?

Definitely, feel free to add more cinnamon to the topping if you love a stronger flavor.

Can these be frozen?

Yes, freeze the bars after they are completely cooled and set; thaw in the fridge before serving.

What does drizzling honey add?

Honey adds an extra layer of sweetness and authenticity to mimic the traditional sopapilla flavor.

Can I serve them warm?

You can, but chilling them helps the layers set properly for clean slicing.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars are a simple yet show-stopping dessert that blends the flaky, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a sopapilla with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Perfect for gatherings or whenever you want a sweet treat with minimal effort, these bars are guaranteed to become a new favorite.

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