Name: Churro Cheesecake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: mexican inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 × 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

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Craving the warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness of churros combined with the creamy decadence of cheesecake? This Churro Cheesecake is a sweet, irresistible treat that combines the best of both worlds. The golden, buttery crescent dough creates a flaky, crispy crust, while the rich cheesecake filling adds a luxurious texture. Topped off with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering or satisfy your sweet tooth when you need a delicious indulgence.

Churro Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of churros and cheesecake, then this Churro Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for you. The crispy exterior of the crescent dough is filled with a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds that familiar churro flavor while bringing an extra layer of sweetness to the dish. It’s simple to make, requires just a few ingredients, and can be served as bars, making it a great option for parties, gatherings, or a family dessert night.

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Churro Cheesecake, you will need the following ingredients:

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

Tip: You can find the full ingredient measurements in the recipe card below.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar together until well combined. Set this aside for later.

2. Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, then sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on the bottom of the pan.

3. Create the Base Layer

Open one tube of crescent roll dough. Unroll the dough 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.

4. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Pour this cheesecake filling over the base layer in the pan, spreading it out evenly.

5. Add the 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 create a top layer. Pour the melted butter over the top layer and spread it evenly using a spoon or pastry brush.

6. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Generously sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over the buttered top layer.

7. Bake the Cheesecake

Bake in the preheated oven for 26–30 minutes, or until the crescent dough is puffed up and golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

8. Chill and Serve

Allow the dessert to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the layers to set. Once chilled, slice into bars and serve!

Variations

Add fruit toppings: Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, make a perfect addition to the cheesecake bars for a burst of freshness.
Nutty topping: Consider adding crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon-sugar topping for extra crunch and flavor.
Change the dough: If you prefer, you can swap the crescent roll dough for phyllo dough for a flakier, lighter texture.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Churro Cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled or at room temperature, but you can microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds if you prefer it warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, you can use puff pastry or pie dough if you’d prefer a different texture. Crescent roll dough gives it a flakier texture, but other doughs can work too.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dessert ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to refrigerate it after cooling to allow the cheesecake layers to set.

3. Can I use a non-dairy option for the cream cheese?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free.

4. How do I make this recipe without eggs?

To make this recipe egg-free, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg or use a store-bought egg replacer.

5. Can I freeze these churro cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 1 month. Let them cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

6. Can I add a caramel drizzle?

Absolutely! A drizzle of caramel sauce will add another layer of sweetness that complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly.

7. How can I make these bars even more decadent?

You can top the bars with whipped cream or ice cream to make them extra indulgent.

8. Can I make this dessert in individual portions?

Yes, you can bake the churro cheesecake in muffin tins for individual servings. Just make sure to adjust the baking time.

9. Can I add a chocolate layer?

You can add a layer of chocolate ganache or chocolate chips between the cheesecake filling and the top dough for an extra chocolatey twist.

10. What’s the best way to serve this dessert?

This dessert is best served chilled, but it’s also delicious at room temperature. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special treat after dinner.

Conclusion

This Churro Cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. With its layers of creamy cheesecake, buttery dough, and cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. The recipe is easy to follow, requires minimal ingredients, and yields a decadent dessert that everyone will love