Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the flaky, sweet goodness of sopapillas. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. With a delightful cinnamon-sugar topping, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy any sweet tooth!

Ingredients List

For the Cheesecake Bars:

• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Timing

Preparing Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of baking time. Total time is approximately 50 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and lay it flat in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press the seams together to seal.
2. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough layer.
3. Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the cream cheese mixture, sealing the seams.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix well.
2. Pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top layer of crescent dough.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set.
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing into bars.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve warm or at room temperature. These bars can be enjoyed on their own or with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars (per bar, assuming 12 bars):

Nutrient	Amount per Bar
Calories	210
Protein	3g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	24g
Fiber	0g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese to lower calories and fat.
• Substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener.
• Use whole wheat crescent rolls for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced peaches, for a refreshing contrast.
• Whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Sealing the Dough: Make sure to press the seams of the crescent rolls together to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bars while baking; overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool before slicing to ensure clean cuts and a better texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

In just about 50 minutes, you can create delicious Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars that are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Their creamy filling and sweet, flaky topping make them a delightful treat for all occasions!

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of dough?

While crescent roll dough is traditional, you can experiment with puff pastry or pie crust for a different texture.

What can I do if I have leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.