Churro Cheesecake Recipe
Imagine the classic cinnamon-sugar crunch of a churro, swirled together with the creamy dreaminess of a cheesecake — that’s the magic of Churro Cheesecake! This irresistible dessert brings the best of both worlds to your kitchen with layers of buttery crescent dough, velvety cream cheese filling, and a generous sprinkle of warm, spiced sweetness. Whether you’re making it for a party or just to treat yourself, every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. Trust me, once you try this, it’s bound to become a requested favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up Churro Cheesecake is delightfully simple and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, but each element plays a starring role. From the pillowy crescent dough to the creamy filling and the sweet cinnamon sugar topping, every component brings something special to the table.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: Quick, flaky, and the perfect shortcut for golden churro layers without fussing over homemade dough.
- Granulated sugar: Provides that sugary sparkle and sweet crunch in every bite—don’t skimp!
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that unmistakable churro flavor, adding warmth and cozy spice both inside and on top.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling its creamy, dreamy texture—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla deepens the richness of the filling and complements the cinnamon.
- Powdered sugar: This adds an extra touch of smooth sweetness to the creamy layer for a truly luscious result.
- Melted butter: Brushed on top, butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick—and gives a gorgeous, golden finish.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Cinnamon Sugar
Before you do anything else, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—no one wants their Churro Cheesecake sticking! In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of the ground cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this mixture evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This not only prevents sticking but creates a sweet, spiced base that’ll have everyone swooning from the very first bite.
Step 2: Lay Down the Crescent Dough Base
Open your first can of crescent roll dough and unroll it (slowly so it doesn’t tear). Gently press it into the bottom of the dish on top of the cinnamon sugar, pinching and sealing any seams. This forms the sturdy foundation for those delicious cheesecake layers to come. Take an extra moment here to make sure there are no gaps—the goal is a seamless, even base.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar, the powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. Feel free to use a hand mixer or stand mixer if you have one, but a little elbow grease and a sturdy spatula work too. This creamy layer is what will make your Churro Cheesecake so outrageously indulgent!
Step 4: Spread and Top with More Dough
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent dough base, being gentle so you don’t disturb the bottom layer. Now, unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and lay it carefully on top of your luscious cheesecake filling. Again, pinch those seams together and go all the way to the edges to seal it in. These layers are what give Churro Cheesecake that signature look when sliced.
Step 5: Finish with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Brush the melted butter generously over the top layer of crescent dough. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar with the other teaspoon of cinnamon, then sprinkle this cinnamon sugar all over the buttery surface. Not only does this make for a mouthwatering golden crust, but your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible while it bakes.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Slide your baking dish into the hot oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and set. Once baked, let the Churro Cheesecake cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least an hour—this helps it firm up so you can cut perfect bars. The hardest part will be waiting… but trust me, it’s so worth it!
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake
Garnishes
Give your Churro Cheesecake an extra flourish just before serving! I love a snowy dusting of powdered sugar to echo those classic churros at the fair. For a richer touch, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scattering of chopped pecans makes every bar look gourmet. Don’t be afraid to get creative—sometimes, just a little garnish turns dessert into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
This decadent treat pairs perfectly with fresh berries or tangy fruit salad, which help balance its sweetness. For a cozy dessert tray, serve alongside a mug of creamy hot chocolate, bold coffee, or even a shot of espresso for dunking. Simple vanilla ice cream, with its coolness and softness, is always a winning sidekick!
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Churro Cheesecake into neat bars for fuss-free serving at potlucks or parties. If you want to impress, use a round biscuit cutter for little cheesecake “coins” or layer squares in a glass for quick parfaits. For special occasions, stack bars on a pretty cake stand with cinnamon sticks tied in ribbon—guaranteed to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Churro Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer bars to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days—the flavors deepen and the texture actually gets even better as it chills, making tomorrow’s treat just as irresistible as today’s.
Freezing
If you want to stash some Churro Cheesecake for a future craving, wrap each bar individually in plastic and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge whenever you’re ready for a sweet fix!
Reheating
While Churro Cheesecake is delicious straight from the fridge, a few seconds in the microwave (about 10 seconds) will take the chill off and bring back some fresh-from-the-oven softness. If you prefer a slightly crispier top, pop a slice in the toaster oven for a minute or two—just keep an eye on it!
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
Absolutely, if you’re feeling adventurous! While store-bought crescent dough is a convenient (and delicious) shortcut, homemade pastry will give your Churro Cheesecake a personal touch. Just make sure it’s a soft, flaky dough, and adjust the baking time if needed.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
For those perfect, bakery-style bars, let your Churro Cheesecake chill thoroughly in the fridge. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. For extra precision, you can even dip the knife in hot water before slicing.
Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in a little orange zest, a dash of nutmeg, or even swap in almond extract for a flavor twist. Mix-ins like chocolate chips or swirls of dulce de leche are wonderful if you want to experiment.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
With traditional crescent roll dough, Churro Cheesecake isn’t gluten-free. However, if you can find a gluten-free crescent dough (or make one from scratch), you can absolutely adapt the recipe for gluten-sensitive guests.
How do I prevent the bottom layer from getting soggy?
The cinnamon sugar sprinkled in the pan helps create a barrier that keeps the dough crisp. Be sure to let the cheesecake cool and set completely before chilling—this prevents steam from being trapped under the layers, which could lead to sogginess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face, give this Churro Cheesecake a try. Every layer is pure comfort, and it comes together so much easier than you’d expect. So go on—bake it up, share it proudly, and be ready for rave reviews. Your next favorite treat is just a pan away!
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Churro Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of churros and cheesecake with these scrumptious Churro Cheesecake bars. A mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Cinnamon Sugar Layer:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crescent Dough Layers:
- 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer Cinnamon Sugar: Mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle half into pan.
- Prepare First Dough Layer: Press one can of crescent dough into the pan.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugars, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over dough.
- Add Second Dough Layer: Place second can of dough over filling.
- Finish and Bake: Brush with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- Cool and Chill: Cool, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped pecans or drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
