New Mexican Sopapilla Pie
This New Mexican Sopapilla Pie is a decadent dessert layered with flaky crescent dough, rich cream cheese filling, a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping, and a finishing touch of golden honey. It captures the spirit of traditional sopapillas—light, sweet, and satisfying—with the ease of a casserole-style dessert. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weeknight indulgence!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Simple to Make: Uses refrigerated crescent rolls for a quick shortcut to deliciousness.
Creamy & Flaky Combo: Layers of warm, buttery dough and tangy cream cheese deliver the ultimate bite.
Family-Friendly Favorite: Everyone loves the cinnamon-sugar topping and gooey interior.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: Best served chilled, which makes it ideal for prepping in advance.
New Mexican Twist: Drizzled with honey just like traditional sopapillas.
Key Ingredients
Refrigerated Crescent Rolls: Serve as the shortcut crust on top and bottom.
Cream Cheese: Creates a rich, tangy filling that balances the sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the filling and the cinnamon topping.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cream cheese mixture.
Butter: Softened and mixed with sugar and cinnamon for that classic topping.
Ground Cinnamon: Essential for that sopapilla-inspired flavor.
Honey: Drizzled on top while warm to replicate traditional New Mexican sopapillas.
Ingredients:
2 (8 oz) tubes refrigerated crescent rolls
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
3/4 cups granulated sugar, for filling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cups granulated sugar, for topping
½ cup butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3 cup honey
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Bottom Crust
Unroll one tube of crescent rolls and press it into the bottom of the dish, sealing seams for an even crust.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese for 3–4 minutes until smooth. Add **3/4 cup sugar and vanilla; mix until fluffy and fully combined.
Step 4: Spread the Filling
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom crust, smoothing it to the edges.
Step 5: Add Top Crust
Unroll the second crescent roll tube and place it over the filling. Gently pinch the seams together.
Step 6: Add Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, remaining 3/4 cup sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the top crust.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Drizzle & Chill
Immediately drizzle 1/3 cup honey over the hot pie. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before slicing.
Expert Tips
Seal the dough seams well to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Chill before serving—this sets the layers and makes slicing much easier.
Want a twist? Add a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon-sugar for a sweet-heat touch.
Important Notes When Making This Recipe
Softened butter is key for blending the cinnamon topping into a crumble.
Don’t skip the honey drizzle—it gives the pie that authentic sopapilla finish.
Use an electric mixer for the cream cheese filling to ensure it’s smooth and lump-free.
Refrigeration is crucial**—serving this pie chilled enhances the texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving (based on 12 servings):
Calories: ~370
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Sugar: 26g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 300mg
Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on brands used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
Yes, but puff pastry will create a flakier, more delicate crust—still delicious!
Does this dessert have to be refrigerated?
Yes. For food safety and best texture, it should be chilled before slicing and kept refrigerated until serving.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s best when made at least a few hours in advance and can be prepared a day ahead.
Can I add fruit to the filling?
Yes! Try layering in thin slices of apple, peach, or even a spoonful of berry preserves.
Can I serve it warm?
It’s traditionally served chilled, but you can gently warm slices if preferred—just note the filling may be softer.