Churro Cheesecake Recipe
There’s something absolutely magical about the fusion of classic churros and creamy cheesecake, and if you haven’t tried Churro Cheesecake yet, you’re in for a melt-in-your-mouth surprise. Imagine layers of golden, buttery crescent dough, a sweet swirl of cinnamon sugar, and a luscious, tangy cream cheese center — all baked together into the ultimate dessert bar. Whether you’re craving a special treat for a gathering or just want to add a touch of fun to your everyday baking, this recipe brings all the cozy flavors of your favorite fairground snack into one ridiculously easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create a Churro Cheesecake that tastes bakery-quality. Each one plays a crucial role — from the soft cream cheese to the buttery dough and fragrant cinnamon, every component adds its own magic to the final bite.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 cans): These give you that flaky, pillowy base and top layer, making the recipe fuss-free and deliciously easy.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 ounces each, softened): The star of the filling, bringing creamy tang and dreamy texture to the center.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup, divided): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to both the cheesecake layer and the churro-inspired topping.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and creates a rich, golden crust on top.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Infuses the dessert with that warm, unmistakable churro flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the creamy filling with a touch of aromatic sweetness.
- Pinch of salt: Balances all the sweet flavors and makes each bite pop.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish — this step is essential to ensure your Churro Cheesecake slices lift out easily and don’t stick. A quick spritz of nonstick spray or a thin layer of butter does the trick.
Step 2: Create the Bottom Layer
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and gently press it into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure to pinch the seams together so you have a seamless base that will hold up to the creamy filling. This will form the sturdy, golden crust reminiscent of freshly fried churros.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of the sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Keep mixing until you have a smooth, creamy consistency — this is your luscious, tangy cheesecake layer that brings everything together.
Step 4: Spread and Top
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent dough base, making sure to reach all the edges. Then unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully lay it on top, stretching gently to cover the filling. This creates a perfect top layer that will puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Add the Churro Topping
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with the cinnamon, mixing well. Pour the melted butter evenly over the top layer of dough, then sprinkle generously with your cinnamon sugar mixture. This step is what gives your Churro Cheesecake its signature crunch and flavor — don’t be shy with that sugar!
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are deliciously puffed. Let it cool completely before slicing; this helps the cheesecake layer set and makes for perfectly neat bars every time.
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake
Garnishes
A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch to each square of Churro Cheesecake. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar or even a dusting of powdered sugar for that bakery finish. For a pop of color, try a few fresh berries on the side.
Side Dishes
Pair your Churro Cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a cloud of freshly whipped cream, or even a mug of hot chocolate for the ultimate dessert spread. If you’re serving a crowd, a platter of fresh fruit or a light citrus salad makes a lovely, refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Churro Cheesecake into bars, squares, or even bite-sized cubes for a playful party platter. For a brunch buffet, stack the bars on a cake stand and garnish with edible flowers. Or set up a DIY dessert bar with different sauces and toppings so everyone can customize their own piece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Churro Cheesecake keeps wonderfully! Simply cover the pan tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to meld, and the texture stays creamy and soft.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, Churro Cheesecake freezes beautifully. Cut into bars, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
To enjoy your Churro Cheesecake warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings back that just-baked aroma and makes the filling extra gooey — perfect for a cozy night in.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works well and will still give you a creamy filling, but keep in mind the texture might be slightly less rich than with full-fat.
What can I use instead of crescent roll dough?
If you don’t have crescent roll dough, try using puff pastry or even sheets of pie crust. The final texture will be a little different, but still deliciously flaky and satisfying.
How do I know when my Churro Cheesecake is done baking?
The top should be golden brown and puffed, and if you gently jiggle the pan, the center should be mostly set with just a slight wobble. Ovens can vary, so check at the 30-minute mark and add a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I add mix-ins to the cheesecake filling?
Definitely! For a fun twist, fold in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirl in a spoonful of dulce de leche before adding the top layer of dough.
Is Churro Cheesecake best served warm or cold?
Honestly, it’s delicious both ways! Cold bars hold their shape for picnics and parties, while a warm slice is pure comfort on a chilly evening. Try both and see which you love more.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s outrageously easy but delivers on flavor and fun, you really can’t beat Churro Cheesecake. It’s that magic combo of crispy, creamy, and cinnamon-sweet that keeps everyone reaching for just one more piece. Give it a try — your taste buds (and your friends) will thank you!
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Churro Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Churro Cheesecake is a delightful fusion dessert combining the flaky, buttery texture of crescent roll dough layered with a smooth cream cheese filling, topped with a generous sprinkling of cinnamon sugar and melted butter for that classic churro flavor. This easy-to-make, Mexican-inspired treat is perfect for dessert bars or sharing at any gathering.
Ingredients
Dough and Layers
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Sugar and Topping
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Form the Base Layer: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish, making sure to pinch the seams together for a uniform crust.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent roll dough base, ensuring a consistent layer.
- Add the Top Dough Layer: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and gently stretch it to fit over the cream cheese layer, placing it on top and sealing edges lightly.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with the ground cinnamon for a classic churro flavor.
- Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top dough layer, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously across the surface.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing into squares or bars to serve.
Notes
- For a fun twist, drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce before serving to enhance the flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
