The Best Churro Cheesecake Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Bliss in Every Bite

Sweet memories of childhood carnival treats dance through my churro cheesecake memories like delightful sugar-coated dreams.

Crispy cinnamon edges blend perfectly with rich, creamy textures that promise comfort in every bite.

Dessert enthusiasts will fall in love with this magical fusion of classic American cheesecake and traditional Spanish pastry.

Classic bakery techniques meet homemade charm in this delectable creation that feels both nostalgic and innovative.

Each slice whispers stories of warm afternoons and shared laughter around a kitchen table.

Creamy layers topped with golden cinnamon crunch create a sensory experience you cannot resist.

Let’s uncover the magic behind this irresistible dessert that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary celebrations.

Building Layers in Churro Cheesecake

• Crescent Dough: A versatile pastry that provides a soft and flaky foundation for the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized texture on the dough.
• Cinnamon: Brings a warm, aromatic flavor characteristic of traditional churros.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a rich, creamy, and smooth base for the cheesecake layer.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and balances the tanginess.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its sweet and aromatic notes.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheesecake filling and provides structure.

• Butter, Sugar, Cinnamon: A classic churro-inspired combination that adds a crispy, sweet, and spiced layer to the top of the dessert.

How to Bake a Perfect Churro Cheesecake

Step 1: Create Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

This mixture will become the signature churro flavor throughout the dessert.

• White sugar
• Ground cinnamon

Step 2: Prepare Baking Pan

Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake bars.

Step 3: Layer First Dough Base

Unroll the first crescent roll dough sheet directly into the prepared baking pan.

Gently press down to seal all perforations, creating a smooth bottom layer.

Step 4: Whip Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese until smooth.

Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined.

Incorporate the egg, ensuring a silky, uniform texture.

Step 5: Spread Cheesecake Layer

Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the first dough layer, using a spatula to create an even surface.

Step 6: Top with Second Dough Layer

Carefully place the second crescent roll dough sheet over the cheesecake filling.

Press down gently to seal edges and create a complete top layer.

Step 7: Apply Buttery Cinnamon Topping

Brush melted butter across the entire top dough layer.

Generously sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture over the surface.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the pan in a preheated oven.

Bake until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the cheesecake layer sets completely.

Step 9: Cool and Chill

Allow the dessert to cool to room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least one hour to help the bars firm up and enhance the flavors.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Cut into rectangular bars, revealing the delicious layers of dough, creamy filling, and cinnamon sugar crust.

Smart Tips for Churro Cheesecake Texture

• Press and pinch the perforations carefully to create a solid base and prevent filling from seeping through during baking.
• Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
• Watch for a golden-brown top and slightly firm center – avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy cheesecake texture.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld and achieve a firmer, more delicious dessert.
• Wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts for neat, clean cheesecake bars that look professionally prepared.

Save and Reheat Churro Cheesecake Without Drying

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual bars or the entire dish in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Preheat oven to 325F. Place refrigerated bars on a baking sheet and warm for 10-15 minutes until slightly heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain texture.
• Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add additional 5-second intervals if needed. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Flavors That Pair Well with Churro Cheesecake

• Pair Indulgent Spiced Mexican Hot Chocolate: Rich, thick hot chocolate with a kick of cinnamon and cayenne perfectly complements the churro cheesecake's warm spices and creamy texture.
• Enhance Sweet Caramel Macchiato: The smooth espresso and sweet caramel notes balance the dessert's richness while echoing its cinnamon undertones.
• Complement Dulce de Leche Liqueur: This sweet, smooth caramel-based liqueur highlights the dessert's decadent churro-inspired flavors and provides a luxurious adult pairing.
• Accent Cinnamon Horchata: A classic Mexican rice drink with gentle cinnamon warmth cleanses the palate between rich cheesecake bites, offering a refreshing counterpoint.

Creative Takes on Churro Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Churro Cheesecake: Replace crescent dough with gluten-free pastry dough or almond flour-based crust for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Vegan Churro Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use plant-based egg replacer, and swap regular butter with coconut oil to create a dairy-free version.
• Low-Sugar Churro Cheesecake: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia instead of sugar, reducing overall calorie and carbohydrate content while maintaining sweet flavor profile.
• Keto-Friendly Churro Cheesecake: Create a coconut flour and almond flour base, use cream cheese, and replace sugar with erythritol to align with ketogenic dietary requirements.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients for churro cheesecake?

The key ingredients include crescent roll dough, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, butter, and cinnamon. These ingredients create the classic churro flavor and creamy cheesecake texture.

• Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes, this recipe is beginner-friendly. It requires basic mixing skills and uses pre-made crescent roll dough, making it simple to assemble. The steps are straightforward and don’t demand advanced baking techniques.

• Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of store-bought?

While store-bought crescent dough is recommended for convenience, you can use homemade dough. Just ensure it’s rolled out thin and can cover the baking dish completely. Homemade dough might require slight adjustments in baking time.

• How do I know when the churro cheesecake is fully baked?

Look for a golden brown top and a set cheesecake layer. The edges should be slightly pulling away from the sides of the baking dish. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.

Churro Cheesecake with Cinnamon Sugar Crunch

• Perfect for novice bakers with simple, straightforward steps that guarantee a professional-looking dessert without complex techniques.
• Combines the beloved flavors of classic churros with creamy cheesecake, creating an irresistible treat that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Requires basic pantry staples and pre-made crescent roll dough, making it a convenient option for spontaneous baking adventures or last-minute gatherings.
• Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, and casual celebrations, this dessert cuts easily into shareable bars and impresses guests with its unique twist on traditional desserts.

Churro Cheesecake Recipe

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4.5 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Indulgent churro cheesecake brings Spanish dessert magic to your table, blending creamy richness with cinnamon-sugar crunch. Sweet layers of graham cracker crust and silky cheesecake promise a delightful escape you’ll savor to the last delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cans crescent roll dough
• 1 large egg

Sugars and Spices:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Butter and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for the topping. Carefully unroll the first crescent dough sheet, pressing it into the bottom of the dish and sealing all perforations to create a smooth base.
3. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until completely smooth and creamy. Incorporate the egg, mixing until fully blended.
4. Distribute the cheesecake mixture evenly across the dough base, ensuring a consistent layer.
5. Unroll the second crescent dough sheet, placing it gently on top of the cheesecake filling. Meticulously seal all seams and edges.
6. Brush the top layer with melted butter, then generously dust with the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture.
7. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and the cheesecake center appears set.
8. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour before cutting into individual servings.

Notes

• Customize the cinnamon intensity by adjusting the ratio of cinnamon to sugar in the topping for a more or less pronounced flavor profile.
• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling that blends perfectly with other ingredients.
• Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean, precise cuts when serving the cheesecake bars.
• Transform this dessert into a gluten-free option by substituting crescent roll dough with a gluten-free puff pastry or almond flour-based dough.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 386
• Sugar: 32 g
• Sodium: 345 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 49 mg