Get ready to fall in love with Churro Cheesecake, a dreamy dessert that fuses the irresistible crunch of a cinnamon-sugar churro with the creamy decadence of classic cheesecake. This layered treat features buttery crescent dough for both the base and the top, hugging a rich cheesecake center, all finished with a glistening cinnamon-sugar crust. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or an indulgent night in with friends — everyone will ask for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Churro Cheesecake is delightfully simple, but every ingredient truly matters. Each one plays its part in building luscious layers of flavor and unbeatable texture, from the tang of cream cheese to the warmth of cinnamon.

Cream cheese: Creates the rich, smooth, and tangy heart of the cheesecake layer; be sure to let it soften for easy blending.
Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness to both the filling and the churro-inspired topping.
Eggs: Bind the filling and help set that signature creamy center.
Vanilla extract: Brings gentle aromatics and rounds out the flavors in the cheesecake layer.
Crescent roll dough sheets: Provide that irresistible, buttery base and top for the bars — much easier than homemade pastry!
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, infusing every bite with warm, churro-spiced goodness.
Unsalted butter: Melted for brushing on top, giving that golden sheen and helping the cinnamon-sugar stick.

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Cinnamon-Sugar

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give a 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coating of nonstick spray or butter. In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and the ground cinnamon to create the classic churro topping. Set this mixture aside for later — you’ll be glad you did!

Step 2: Create the Bottom Layer

Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish. Try to seal any seams to keep a solid base for your Churro Cheesecake, making sure the dough reaches every corner.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 cup granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until you have a luxuriously smooth and creamy mixture. This filling should look thick, glossy, and lump-free. Spread it over the dough layer with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Add the Second Dough Layer

Unroll your second can of crescent roll dough and carefully lay it over the cheesecake filling. Do your best to cover the filling completely — it’s okay if there are a few gaps as the dough will expand while baking. This layer gives your Churro Cheesecake that signature sandwich effect!

Step 5: Top with Butter and Cinnamon-Sugar

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire top dough layer, making sure to reach the edges. Sprinkle liberally with your prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture so that every bite delivers a sweet, spiced crunch. The butter helps the sugar crisp up for that authentic churro texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the center looks set when gently jiggled. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly by now! Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.

Step 7: Chill and Slice

Once the pan is cool, slide it into the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This step is essential for getting those clean, beautiful bars when you slice. When ready, use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles and marvel at those perfect layers.

How to Serve

Garnishes

Dress up your Churro Cheesecake with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a dusting of extra cinnamon. For an extra-special touch, a few fresh berries on the side add color and brightness.

Side Dishes

Pair your cheesecake bars with fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a sweet and refreshing dessert plate. For celebrations, serve alongside strong coffee or spiced hot chocolate to complement the cinnamon flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the Churro Cheesecake bars on a cake stand for a show-stopping centerpiece, or cut them into bite-sized cubes and spear them on toothpicks for an easy dessert platter. For parties, set up a dipping station with caramel and chocolate sauces so guests can customize each bar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Churro Cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen and the texture stays velvety, so they’re perfect for make-ahead desserts or snacking all week long.

Freezing

While freezing is not recommended (it can alter the creamy texture and the crisp churro top), if you must, wrap slices tightly in plastic and foil before freezing for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but keep in mind the cinnamon-sugar topping might not be as delightfully crisp.

Reheating

Churro Cheesecake is delicious straight from the fridge, but if you crave a warm treat, pop a bar in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This gently softens the cheesecake and brings out the buttery cinnamon aroma. Avoid overheating to preserve the creamy filling and crisp top.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute with low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be less rich and creamy. For best results, use full-fat cream cheese for that classic indulgent taste and mouthfeel.

Do I need to use crescent roll dough sheets, or can I use regular crescent rolls?

If you can’t find the dough sheets, regular crescent rolls work too — just pinch the perforations well to form an even layer. It’s a handy swap that won’t compromise on flavor or texture.

Can I make Churro Cheesecake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Look for gluten-free crescent dough alternatives, or make your own gluten-free pastry base and top. Just keep a close eye on baking time, as some doughs may brown faster than others.

How do I get the cleanest slices?

Chill your Churro Cheesecake thoroughly before slicing, and wipe your knife clean between cuts. This keeps the layers neat and the bars looking picture-perfect every time.

What’s the best way to transport Churro Cheesecake to a party?

Slice the bars and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. Since they’re sturdy and pack well, Churro Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert to take along and impress your friends.

Final Thoughts

This Churro Cheesecake recipe truly brings the best of two worlds together and never fails to delight. Give it a try the next time you want to wow a crowd — or just treat yourself to a moment of cinnamon-sugar bliss!

Churro Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5.2 from 26 reviews

Author: Sara
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 12-15 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Churro Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of cinnamon-sugar churros with creamy cheesecake in a layered treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Cheesecake Layer:

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Churro Layers:

2 cans crescent roll dough sheets
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar: Mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with ground cinnamon in a bowl; set aside.
Layering: Press one can of crescent dough into the baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Spread this mixture over the dough. Layer the second can of crescent dough on top.
Bake: Drizzle melted butter over the top dough and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mix. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and set.
Cool and Serve: Cool, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, then slice and serve.