Cream cheese bars are a delightful treat, and using crescent rolls makes them incredibly easy to whip up! This recipe delivers a melt-in-your-mouth dessert that's perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or a simple weeknight indulgence. We'll explore variations and answer common questions to help you master this crowd-pleaser.
What are cream cheese crescent roll bars?
Cream cheese crescent roll bars are a simple dessert made by combining a cream cheese filling with crescent roll dough. The dough is spread into a baking dish, topped with the creamy filling, and baked until golden brown. The result is a sweet and tangy dessert with a flaky, buttery crust. It's a convenient and delicious alternative to more complicated baked goods.
How do you make cream cheese crescent roll bars from scratch? (While this recipe utilizes crescent roll dough, it’s not technically made from scratch)
While we're using store-bought crescent roll dough for convenience, achieving that "from scratch" flavor involves selecting high-quality ingredients. Opt for a full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier filling. Using good quality butter in your crescent roll dough (if you choose to make your own from scratch—though not required for this recipe) also significantly impacts the final taste and texture. The simplicity of this recipe allows you to focus on premium ingredients for maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounce) package of refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the crescent roll dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into the prepared baking dish. Seal any seams.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent roll dough.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool: Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before dusting with powdered sugar (optional) and cutting into squares.
What can I add to cream cheese crescent roll bars?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability! Consider these additions to elevate your cream cheese bars:
- Fruit: Fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries add juicy bursts of flavor.
- Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips add a decadent touch.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the warmth of the dessert.
- Citrus zest: Lemon or orange zest brightens the flavor profile.
Can I make cream cheese crescent roll bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars can be made ahead of time. Bake them as directed, cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Are cream cheese crescent roll bars gluten-free?
No, this recipe is not gluten-free as it uses crescent roll dough, which contains wheat. To make a gluten-free version, you'll need to substitute gluten-free crescent roll dough or make your own gluten-free pastry dough.
How many calories are in a cream cheese crescent roll bar?
The calorie count will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size, but a typical serving of a cream cheese crescent roll bar contains approximately 200-250 calories. Remember this is an estimate.
How do I store leftover cream cheese crescent roll bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
This recipe is a fantastic starting point. Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to create your signature cream cheese crescent roll bars! Enjoy!
