Sopapilla Cheesecake Recipe
Wow, I just found the yummiest dessert ever. It’s called Sopapilla Cheesecake. Trust me, it’s like a fluffy dream.
I first made it for my family, and they loved every bite. The flaky crust, the creamy cheesecake, and the sweet cinnamon sugar on top made my mouth water. Honestly, I couldn’t stop eating it.
Um, this dessert is perfect for any party or cozy night in. It’s super simple to make and fills the house with a yummy smell. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll want more.
Go grab your ingredients now. Try this Sopapilla Cheesecake and share a slice with me, okay? You won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: Uses convenient refrigerated crescent roll dough for an easy assembly.
- Rich & Creamy: The cream cheese filling is velvety smooth and lightly sweetened.
- Buttery Cinnamon-Sugar Topping: Creates a crispy, caramelized crust that enhances every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dessert or a party treat, this dish is always a hit.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily prepared in advance and served warm or chilled.

What You Need to Know Before You Start
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: About 50 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 12 bars, perfect for sharing.
Difficulty Level
Beginner-friendly—simple steps with guaranteed delicious results.
Required Kitchen Tools
To make Sopapilla Cheesecake, you’ll need the following:
- 9×13-inch baking dish – For even baking and the perfect layer thickness.
- Mixing bowls – To blend the cheesecake filling and cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Electric mixer or whisk – For a smooth, creamy filling.
- Spatula – To spread the filling evenly.
- Pastry brush or spoon – For drizzling butter over the top.
Ingredients for Sopapilla Cheesecake
Here’s what you’ll need (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough – Forms the flaky, golden crust.
- Cream cheese – Full-fat for the richest flavor.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling and creates the cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the cheesecake’s depth of flavor.
- Egg – Binds the filling and adds structure.
- Unsalted butter – Melted and brushed over the top for a golden, crispy crust.
- Honey (optional) – A classic drizzle to finish for extra sweetness.
Variations for Sopapilla Cheesecake
This classic recipe is already a winner, but here are some ways to switch it up:
- Add a Fruity Twist: Swirl in some strawberry or raspberry jam into the cream cheese filling for a fruity contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar topping before baking.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling for a sweet surprise.
- Pumpkin Spice Version: Mix in a teaspoon of pumpkin spice with the cinnamon-sugar topping for a fall-inspired treat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crescent dough or a gluten-free pastry substitute.

How to Make Sopapilla Cheesecake (Step-by-Step Instructions)
1. Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Bottom Crust
- Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and gently press it into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Pinch any seams together to create an even layer.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom layer of crescent dough.
4. Add the Top Layer
- Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully lay it over the cream cheese filling.
- Stretch it gently to cover the filling completely.
5. Brush with Butter & Cinnamon-Sugar
- Melt unsalted butter and brush it evenly over the top layer of dough.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it generously over the buttered dough.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp.
- The butter will caramelize the cinnamon-sugar topping, creating a deliciously crisp and sweet crust.
7. Cool Before Serving
- Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool for at least 20 minutes.
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate for 1-2 hours before slicing.
- If desired, drizzle honey over the top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Sopapilla Cheesecake
This dessert is delicious warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Here are some serving ideas:
- Classic Style: Serve with a light drizzle of honey and a dusting of extra cinnamon-sugar.
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, crispy layers.
- Berry Garnish: Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the creamy texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melted chocolate drizzled over the top makes it extra indulgent.
Storing & Meal Prep Tips
How to Store Sopapilla Cheesecake
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheat: Enjoy cold, at room temperature, or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back some warmth and softness.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 Bar)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 38g |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Cholesterol | 45mg |
Sodium | 260mg |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 20g |
Note: Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Sopapilla Cheesecake Recipe
12 bars
servings15
minutes35
minutes320
kcalIngredients
2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
16 oz (2 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar (for topping)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Honey (optional, for drizzling)
Directions
- Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. - Create the Bottom Layer
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the dish.
Pinch seams together to create an even layer. - Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Spread the filling evenly over the bottom crescent roll layer. - Add the Top Layer
Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully lay it over the filling.
Stretch it gently to cover completely. - Add Butter & Cinnamon-Sugar
Brush melted butter evenly over the top.
In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the buttered dough. - Bake & Cool
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on top.
Let cool for 20 minutes before slicing. For a firmer texture, refrigerate for 1-2 hours. - Serve & Enjoy
Drizzle with honey, if desired, before serving.
Sopapilla Cheesecake FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use homemade pastry dough or puff pastry as a substitute.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat is best for the creamiest texture, but low-fat can work if needed.
How do I keep the top from getting too dark?
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Conclusion
Sopapilla Cheesecake is a perfect blend of crispy, buttery layers and rich, creamy filling. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. Enjoy it as a sweet breakfast, snack, or after-dinner treat!