Name: Easy Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Powdered sugar, for dusting

If you’re in the mood for something buttery, creamy, and just the right kind of tangy, these Easy Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls will steal your heart. They’re golden on the outside, lush and lemony on the inside, and dusted with just enough powdered sugar to feel like a bakery indulgence.

The crescent rolls bake up beautifully crisp and flaky, creating a perfect shell for the silky cheesecake filling infused with zesty lemon flavor. Whether you’re serving them at brunch, gifting a sweet treat, or just needing a little sunshine on your plate, these are a breeze to whip up and hard to resist.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

For this recipe, refrigerated crescent roll dough (like Pillsbury) is your best friend. It gives you that quick and easy flaky texture without the need for rolling or fussing with traditional puff pastry. If you prefer puff pastry for a more layered bite, just be sure to thaw it properly and cut it into triangles before filling and rolling.

Ingredients for the Easy Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Crescent Roll Dough – This is your base, offering a quick shortcut to buttery, layered pastry.

Cream Cheese – Brings a rich, tangy backbone to the cheesecake filling.

Granulated Sugar – Just enough sweetness to balance the tart lemon.

Lemon Juice + Zest – For brightness and that fresh, unmistakable lemon flavor.

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor complexity and smoothness.

Powdered Sugar (for dusting) – A pretty finish that adds a hint of sweetness and a touch of elegance.

How To Make the Easy Lemon Cheesecake Crescent Rolls

Step 1: Prep the Filling

In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Assemble the Crescents

Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles. Spoon a generous tablespoon of the cheesecake mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Carefully roll each one up like a crescent, pinching the ends to keep the filling inside.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

Place the crescents on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Step 4: Cool and Dust

Let the crescents cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for that beautiful, bakery-style finish.

Serving and Storing These Sweet Rolls

Serve these rolls slightly warm for the best flavor and texture—they’re buttery, flaky, and the filling is extra creamy when just out of the oven. They also make great treats to bring to brunches or holiday tables.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?

Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and cut into triangles. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the filling and store it in the fridge a day ahead. Assemble and bake fresh for best results.

What kind of lemon juice works best?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers the brightest flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.

Can I freeze them?

It’s best to freeze them before baking. Assemble, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the bake time.

Is it okay to skip the powdered sugar?

Yes, but it adds a touch of sweetness and a pretty finish. A drizzle of glaze is also a fun alternative.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but the filling may be slightly softer and less rich.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these lemon cheesecake crescent rolls, you’ll probably enjoy these other sweet treats:

Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting for a rich, velvety dessert bite.
Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls bursting with sweet berries and tangy cream.
Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies for a fall-flavored twist.
Chocolate Caramel Dump Cake that’s ooey-gooey comfort in every bite.
No-Bake Easy Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie if you love chilled desserts with a fruity pop.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use puff pastry instead of crescents? Did you go bold with extra lemon zest?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.