Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

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Dessert is always such a fun thing to experiment with, and we have no problem trying out new recipes and coming up with the best versions of anything we try. As you may already know, we’re pretty hooked on all things cheesecake over here, so we’ve done a fair amount of trial and error with any number of cheesecake-related desserts. Whether it’s bright and citrusy lemon cheesecake bars or rich, silky chocolate cheesecake pie, you can’t go wrong with a cream cheese-based dessert…which is how we knew ahead of time that these sopapilla cheesecake bars would be a smashing success!

So, what exactly is a sopapilla you ask? Also known as a sopaipilla, this dish has roots in many Spanish countries, but it’s the New Mexican version of it that influenced our recipe today. New Mexican sopapillas are little fried pillows of dough that rise up after being fried and that are served with honey or cinnamon sugar. They’re light and airy, which means you can have a bunch of them without feeling full…which is usually what we do. Here though, we took crescent rolls as our dough, made a creamy cheesecake filling, and topped everything off with a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar. The result is a decadent dessert bar that never fails to hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of creamy, sweet desserts with a bit of a crunch, these sopapilla cheesecake bars are a dream come true. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing at gatherings, and combine the best of both cheesecake and sopapilla worlds. The cinnamon sugar topping adds an irresistible warmth that will have you reaching for seconds.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Non-stick spray
• Large bowl or mixer
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Brush for butter

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz.) packages crescent rolls
• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Unwrap one package of crescent rolls and carefully place it into the baking dish, gently pinching the seams together to form a uniform crust layer.
3. Optional: Place in the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until light golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
4. In a large bowl or mixer, beat the cream cheese for 3-4 minutes until fluffy, then mix in 3/4 cup sugar and vanilla extract until combined.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, making sure to reach all the way to the sides.
6. Take the remaining crescent rolls and place them gently over the cream cheese layer, pressing the seams together again.
7. Brush melted butter over the dough. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then evenly sprinkle the mixture over the top crust.
8. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or overnight before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
• For a richer flavor, consider using a higher quality vanilla extract.
• Don’t skip the refrigeration step; it helps the bars set and makes them easier to cut.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a fun twist, try adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cream cheese and top crescent layer. You can also mix in some crushed nuts for extra texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 | Fat: 22g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls? Yes, but it will change the texture slightly. Puff pastry is flakier than crescent rolls.

How long do these bars last? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze sopapilla cheesecake bars? Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

These sopapilla cheesecake bars are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. I invite you to try this recipe and experience the joy of making (and eating) this delicious dessert. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with!

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