Name: Churro Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup granulated sugar; 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

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s part crispy, part creamy, and 100 percent irresistible, look no further than Churro Cheesecake. Imagine the best of both worlds: the golden, cinnamon-sugar magic of churros wrapped around a lush, velvety cheesecake filling! This treat is the easiest way to bring a touch of fun and indulgence to any occasion. From family gatherings to impromptu celebrations, Churro Cheesecake is always a crowd-pleaser that delivers pure joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things I love about Churro Cheesecake is how everyday ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Each component serves a purpose, building layers of flavor, crunch, and creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own slice of happiness:

Ground Cinnamon: Essential for that signature churro flavor—don’t skimp here!
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and creates that classic churro crust.
Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough or Sheets: These form the pillowy, golden layers that cradle the cheesecake filling; using sheets makes it extra easy, but either works perfectly.
Full-Fat Cream Cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer—use full-fat for ultra-creamy richness.
Large Egg: Helps the cheesecake set beautifully and adds structure.
Vanilla Extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that heightens every other flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Brushed on top, it helps the cinnamon sugar stick and bakes into a delicious, buttery finish.

How to Make Churro Cheesecake

Step 1: Mix Up the Cinnamon Sugar

Start by stirring together your ground cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl until you achieve a beautiful, speckled blend. This mixture is more than just a topping—it’s the heartbeat of that churro flavor. Set it aside; you’ll use it at different points for both taste and texture.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for a perfectly baked Churro Cheesecake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan to prevent sticking, then sprinkle a couple of spoonfuls of your cinnamon sugar on the bottom. This gives every bite a churro-like crunch, both top and bottom!

Step 3: Lay Down the Base

Open the first tube of crescent dough. Carefully unroll and press the seams together to make one smooth sheet. Gently lay it into your prepared pan, making sure it covers every corner—this forms the pillowy base for your cheesecake filling.

Step 4: Whip the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and luxuriously creamy. Pour this mixture over the base layer, then use a spatula to spread it evenly. The smell alone at this point is enough to make your mouth water!

Step 5: Top with More Crescent Dough and Butter

Unroll the second tube of crescent dough, seal the seams, and place it gently over the cheesecake filling. Next comes the magic touch: drizzle your melted butter evenly over this top layer. Use a brush or spoon to reach every edge—it’ll help the topping crisp up to churro perfection.

Step 6: Sprinkle With Cinnamon Sugar

Time for the grand finale: shower the buttered dough with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Be generous, and don’t worry about making it too even—the rustic look is part of the charm (and deliciousness) of Churro Cheesecake.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for 26–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is puffed, golden, and your kitchen smells like a churro stand at a county fair. Let it cool on a wire rack before handling.

Step 8: Chill and Slice

Patience pays off here! Once it has cooled to room temperature, transfer your Churro Cheesecake to the fridge and let it chill for at least 3 hours. This ensures clean slices and the perfect creamy-crisp texture. Cut into bars and prepare to impress!

How to Serve Churro Cheesecake

Garnishes

Churro Cheesecake is fantastic on its own, but a few simple garnishes can make each slice even more special. Consider a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a drizzle of warm dulce de leche. You can even add a sprinkle of orange zest for a surprising citrus twist.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving this as part of a celebration or dessert bar, it pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a tangy fruit compote. The brightness of the fruit balances out the richness of the cheesecake, while a cup of hot coffee or cold milk makes each bite even more nostalgic and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or potlucks, slice the Churro Cheesecake into small squares for easy, shareable bites. Looking to wow your guests? Stack the bars in a pyramid, scatter berries around the base, and serve with dessert skewers for a playful, interactive dessert spread. For family nights, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, cover the Churro Cheesecake bars tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, making them a great option for sneaking a sweet treat all week long.

Freezing

Churro Cheesecake freezes nicely, too! Once fully chilled and sliced, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their magic for up to two months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your Churro Cheesecake a little warm (and who could blame you?), simply pop a bar in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. This brings back that cozy churro vibe. If reheating from frozen, let the bars defrost in the fridge first, then warm briefly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat?

You can, but for the creamiest, most decadent texture, full-fat cream cheese is best. Low-fat works in a pinch, but the results may be a bit less rich and fluffy.

Is there an alternative to crescent roll dough?

Puff pastry sheets or even pie crust can be swapped in, though the flavor and texture will change. Crescent dough gives you that pillowy, slightly yeasty taste that mimics classic churros best!

How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?

Look for a golden, puffed top and lightly set center. A little jiggle is okay when shaken gently, but it should not look liquid. Cooling and chilling will help everything set properly.

Can I make Churro Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the charms of this recipe is that it actually tastes better after a few hours (or overnight) in the fridge. Perfect for planning ahead for gatherings or holidays.

What’s the best way to cut clean bars?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts and slice while the bars are cold from the fridge. This will keep your layers neat and your presentation beautiful.

Final Thoughts

This Churro Cheesecake is pure dessert happiness! Every bite brings together the warm, cinnamon comfort of churros and the dreaminess of cheesecake. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want to treat yourself, give this playful recipe a try—you might just find a new family favorite!

Churro Cheesecake Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 20 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the perfect combination of churros and cheesecake with this delectable Churro Cheesecake recipe. A buttery cinnamon sugar base, creamy cheesecake filling, and a crispy cinnamon sugar topping make these bars a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cinnamon Sugar:

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Bars:

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.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American