Heat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment, leaving an overhang.
Stir 1/2 cup sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl; set aside for topping.
Beat cream cheese with 2/3 cup sugar, vanilla, salt, and lemon zest until smooth and fluffy.
Unroll one crescent dough sheet. Press seams to seal and fit into the prepared pan.
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, reaching the corners.
Unroll the second dough sheet, seal seams, and gently lay it over the filling.
Brush the top with melted butter, then shower evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Bake until puffed and deep golden, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool 20 minutes, then chill 30 minutes.
Lift out by the parchment. Slice into bars and serve slightly warm or chilled.