CREAM CHEESE SQUARES

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough

For the Filling:

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure to press the seams together to seal them.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
   2. Add the 1 cup of granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined and creamy.
3. Assemble the Squares:
   1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll dough in the baking dish.
   2. Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the cream cheese mixture. Again, press the seams together to seal them.
4. Prepare the Topping:
   1. Pour the melted butter evenly over the top layer of crescent roll dough.
   2. In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
   3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the melted butter.
5. Bake:
   1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the crescent dough is fully cooked.
6. Cool and Serve:
   1. Allow the cream cheese squares to cool in the baking dish for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares.
   2. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips:

• For an extra twist, you can add a layer of fruit preserves (like strawberry or raspberry) between the cream cheese filling and the top layer of crescent roll dough.
• If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the filling to 3/4 cup.
• These squares can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave if you prefer them warm.