Churro Cheesecake Recipe
If you’ve ever wished you could capture both the cinnamon-sugar magic of fresh churros and the creamy decadence of cheesecake in a single dessert, Churro Cheesecake is your new dream come true. With a golden, flaky crescent dough crust, a thick layer of silky cream cheese, and a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar, every bite is nostalgic yet mess-free, like a street fair classic in bar form. It’s the kind of show-stopping treat that disappears in minutes, making it just as perfect for a potluck as it is for a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, familiar ingredients are the secret behind Churro Cheesecake’s addictive flavor and delightful texture. Each one plays an important role, from building that flaky foundation to creating the signature sweet-spiced finish you’ll crave.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds unmistakable warmth and depth to both the sugar layers and topping.
- Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness, binding everything from the cinnamon topping to the luscious filling.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets (two 8-ounce packages): Creates those pillowy, golden crust layers that bake up soft and irresistible under the cinnamon sugar.
- Full-fat cream cheese (16 ounces): Provides that rich, tangy cheesecake center—the heart and soul of this dessert.
- Additional granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the creamy filling, balancing the tang of cream cheese.
- Large egg: Helps to set the cheesecake layer so it bakes up beautifully sliceable, not runny.
- Vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons): Rounds out the filling with a cozy, aromatic note.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons), melted: Helps the cinnamon sugar cling and gives the top its crave-worthy crispness.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, stir together the cinnamon and sugar until they’re perfectly blended. This will become both your topping and the fragrant base for the whole dessert, so make sure it’s evenly mixed—no streaks of cinnamon hiding in the sugar!
Step 2: Preheat and Prep the Pan
Crank up your oven to 350°F (175°C) and set the rack in the middle for even baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan so nothing sticks, then sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of your cinnamon sugar over the bottom. This step gives every single bar a burst of sweet-spicy flavor right from the underside up.
Step 3: Create the Crescent Roll Base Layer
Pop open that first tube of crescent dough (don’t worry, it’s always a little scary!). Unroll it gently on a clean surface and pinch any seams together to create a single large rectangle. Transfer this sheet to your pan, pressing and stretching as needed to completely cover the bottom. It doesn’t have to be perfect—a little rustic charm is what makes Churro Cheesecake so fun.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar, egg, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is silky-smooth and lump-free. This creamy, dreamy blend is what takes the dessert over the top. Spread it gently and evenly onto your base layer in the pan.
Step 5: Add the Top Dough Layer and Butter Coating
Grab the second tube of crescent dough, unroll, and again seal up any seams. Carefully drape this over the cream cheese filling for your top layer. Next, drizzle melted butter evenly over the surface, using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to coax it into every corner.
Step 6: Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
This is the step where your kitchen starts to smell like heaven! Generously shower the remaining cinnamon sugar all over the buttered dough, ensuring you coat every inch for that crunchy churro texture and sweet finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the Churro Cheesecake in the center of your oven for 26–30 minutes. Watch for the top to get puffed, glossy, and beautifully golden brown—you want that irresistible churro crunch! Cool it fully on a wire rack so the layers can settle.
Step 8: Chill and Slice
Once it’s reached room temperature, pop the pan into the fridge for at least 3 hours for perfectly defined layers. After chilling, slice into neat bars and prepare yourself for rave reviews with each bite!
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake
Garnishes
A shower of extra cinnamon sugar or a flourish of powdered sugar is all you need to make Churro Cheesecake bars look irresistible. For an even more decadent touch, drizzle them with a little melted chocolate or caramel sauce just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dessert is the star of any spread, but serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of hot chocolate for the ultimate comfort combo. For something lighter, a side of fresh berries brings a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized squares for party platters, or go big and serve generous rectangles at family gatherings. Stack them on a rustic board for dessert buffets, or use cupcake liners for a grab-and-go treat at picnics and potlucks. Churro Cheesecake always looks impressive, however you serve it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (don’t count on it!), simply cover the pan tightly or transfer the bars to an airtight container. Churro Cheesecake will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 5 days—though it rarely lasts that long in most homes!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Churro Cheesecake bars for later. Arrange the cooled, sliced bars on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-baked churro feel, pop slices in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes, or just until warmed. This revives their crispy edges and gooey center without melting away that cinnamon sugar magic.
FAQs
Can I use homemade crescent dough or puff pastry instead?
Absolutely! Homemade dough or puff pastry both work as delicious alternatives, though the texture will be a little different. Homemade dough can be flakier or richer, while puff pastry creates a more layered finish—both elevate the Churro Cheesecake experience.
Is there a way to make Churro Cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes—Churro Cheesecake is actually better after chilling for a few hours, so feel free to make it the night before your event. Slice just before serving for the cleanest edges and the freshest flavor.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
With a good gluten-free crescent dough or puff pastry substitute, you can definitely make a version that works for gluten-sensitive friends. Most other ingredients in Churro Cheesecake are naturally gluten-free!
How do I keep my cheesecake layer from being too runny?
Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese and drain off any excess liquid before mixing your filling. Also, take care not to overmix, and don’t skip the chilling step—it helps the cheesecake layer set up perfectly.
Can I add mix-ins or flavor variations?
Definitely! Try stirring in mini chocolate chips, orange zest, or even a dash of nutmeg to the cheesecake filling for a fun twist. Experiment once you’ve mastered the classic Churro Cheesecake recipe.
Final Thoughts
Churro Cheesecake is one of those desserts that always leaves people talking—and reaching for seconds! Give it a try, share it with friends, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen.
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Churro Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious fusion of churros and cheesecake with this decadent Churro Cheesecake recipe. Layers of creamy cheesecake filling sandwiched between cinnamon sugar-coated crescent dough sheets, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling:
- Two 8-ounce packages refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets
- 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar until well combined. Set aside.
- Preheat and Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the middle. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on the bottom.
- Create Base Layer: Open one tube of crescent roll dough. Unroll it carefully and press the seams together to form a single rectangular sheet. Place this sheet into the prepared pan, ensuring it covers the bottom completely.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture over the base layer in the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Top Layer and Butter Coating: Open the second tube of crescent roll dough, repeat the process of sealing seams, and gently place it over the cheesecake filling to form a top layer. Pour melted butter over this layer and spread it evenly using a spoon or pastry brush.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar generously over the buttered top layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 26–30 minutes or until the crescent dough is puffed and golden brown. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.
- Chill and Serve: Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the layers to set. Slice into bars before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the cheesecake filling.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Churro Cheesecake, Cheesecake Recipe, Cinnamon Sugar, Crescent Dough Dessert
