SOPAPILLA CHEESECAKE BARS

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars are a delectable and indulgent dessert that seamlessly combines the rich and creamy goodness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of sopapillas. This delightful treat starts with a buttery and flaky crescent roll crust that forms a golden and slightly crispy base.

The cheesecake layer is the star of this dessert, featuring a velvety mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. This luscious filling is generously spread over the crescent roll crust, creating a smooth and decadent foundation for the bars.

To add a touch of sweetness and warmth, a cinnamon-sugar mixture is generously sprinkled on top of the cheesecake layer. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives a nod to the classic sopapilla, a traditional Mexican fried pastry dusted with cinnamon and sugar.

Another layer of crescent roll dough is placed on top, providing a buttery and flaky covering that encases the creamy cheesecake filling. This layer bakes to perfection, creating a golden and slightly crispy top that adds a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.

Once out of the oven, the sopapilla cheesecake bars are often allowed to cool before being cut into squares or bars. This dessert can be served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld, or chilled for a refreshing twist.

Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars are a crowd-pleaser, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The juxtaposition of the smooth and sweet cheesecake with the flaky and slightly crunchy layers of crescent roll dough creates a dessert experience that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether served as a delightful ending to a meal or as a sweet treat for special occasions, these bars are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to savor them.

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

Preparation:

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

Enjoy !