Churro Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping fusion dessert, look no further than Churro Cheesecake. Imagine the best parts of a classic churro — that irresistibly crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating — paired with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, all tucked between delicate layers of buttery crescent pastry. This recipe is incredibly easy to put together and always disappears quickly at potlucks or family gatherings. Whether you’re whipping up a treat for the holidays or just need a little something special to go with your afternoon coffee, Churro Cheesecake will not let you down.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In the world of easy desserts, this treat has superstar ingredients that make each bite pure joy. You don’t need anything fancy, but every single element plays a role in creating that signature crispy crust, velvety cheesecake interior, and cinnamon-sugar magic.

• Ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic churro aroma and a fragrant, spiced top and bottom.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and crunch to the cinnamon sugar blend and cheesecake layer.
• Two 8-ounce packages refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets: These form your golden, buttery, flaky base and top — so convenient!
• Full-fat cream cheese, softened (16 ounces): The heart of the cheesecake filling, delivering extra-creamy decadence.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Keeps the cheesecake filling perfectly sweet without being overwhelming.
• 1 large egg: Binds the cheesecake mixture, giving it a gorgeously set texture.
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses lovely warmth and depth to balance the sweet and spice.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled: Provides richness and a glossy finish, helping the cinnamon-sugar stick to perfection.

How to Make Churro Cheesecake

Step 1: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and half a cup of granulated sugar. Stir it well to ensure every grain is flecked with spice. This blend is your ticket to churro bliss, and you’ll be using it at several stages, so have it ready nearby.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Crank your oven up to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan generously — you want every slice to pop out cleanly. Sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of your cinnamon-sugar mixture right into the bottom of the pan to infuse the very first bite with extra churro flavor.

Step 3: Lay Down the Crescent Dough Base

Unroll the first tube of crescent roll dough onto a clean surface and gently press the seams together, turning it into a unified sheet. Carefully drape this over the bottom of your prepared pan, making sure the edges reach every corner.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together your softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Go for smooth and dreamy — no lumps! Spread this velvety mixture over the crescent dough layer in the pan, smoothing it with a spatula so it’s even from edge to edge.

Step 5: Top with the Second Layer of Dough and Butter

Now, unroll the second tube of crescent dough and repeat the process: pinch the seams into one solid sheet. Gently lay this over the cheesecake mixture. Pour the melted butter on top, spreading it as evenly as you can — this step is what helps that cinnamon sugar form its signature crisp edge.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Sprinkle the rest of your cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough layer. Be generous! This coating is what gives Churro Cheesecake its familiar churro crunch and glimmering top.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake in your preheated oven for 26–30 minutes. Watch for a golden brown top and puffed dough — it should look crisp around the edges. Let the pan cool on a wire rack so the filling finishes setting.

Step 8: Chill, Slice, and Serve

Once your Churro Cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, set it in the fridge for at least three hours (overnight is even better) so it firms up perfectly. When you’re ready to serve, slice it into bars and get ready to wow your crowd.

How to Serve Churro Cheesecake

Garnishes

A flourish of garnishes will really make your Churro Cheesecake stand out. Consider a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar just before serving, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a true churro vibe, try a sprinkle of grated chocolate or an extra pinch of cinnamon on top.

Side Dishes

Pairing options are endless! Serve your bars with fresh berries for a pop of tang, or offer them alongside vanilla bean ice cream for ultimate indulgence. A cup of espresso or even a Mexican hot chocolate complements the warmth of the spices beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice your Churro Cheesecake into small squares and skewer them with toothpicks for bite-sized treats. Stack them in a tower for a dramatic dessert centerpiece, or arrange them in a circle and garnish with cinnamon sticks for a festive look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Churro Cheesecake bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to five days and remain soft and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to extend the shelf life, Churro Cheesecake bars can be frozen. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep fresh for up to two months; just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

To recapture a fresh-from-the-oven taste, pop bars in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. If you prefer them a little toasty, you can also reheat them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes until warmed through and fragrant.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for Churro Cheesecake?

You can swap in low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind the filling won’t be quite as rich or creamy. For that true melt-in-your-mouth experience, I recommend sticking with full-fat when you can.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

Chill your Churro Cheesecake thoroughly before slicing, and wipe your knife with a damp paper towel between cuts. This keeps the layers tidy and picture-perfect every time!

Can I make Churro Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Churro Cheesecake is an ideal make-ahead dessert. Prep it a day in advance, let it chill overnight, and it’ll taste even better as the flavors meld together.

Are there any fun variations to try?

Yes! Stir a bit of orange or lemon zest into the cream cheese, or add a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon sugar for a subtle kick. You can also swap crescent dough for puff pastry for a flakier finish.

Do I need to use crescent dough, or can I make this from scratch?

Crescent dough is the ultimate time-saver, but homemade pastry or even pie dough works in a pinch. Convenience and that signature crescent texture make the ready-made version hard to beat, though!

Final Thoughts

If you love all things cinnamon-sweet and crave a dessert that’s both easy and unforgettable, give Churro Cheesecake a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a playful twist to classic flavors — you might just find it becoming a new favorite in your dessert line-up!

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