Churro Cheesecake

Churro Cheesecake is a decadent dessert mashup that combines the crisp, cinnamon-sugar crunch of churros with the creamy richness of a classic cheesecake. Featuring layers of flaky pastry, smooth cream cheese filling, and a sweet cinnamon topping, this crowd-pleasing treat is baked to golden perfection and served in easy-to-slice bars.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is the best of both worlds—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with flavor. It’s incredibly simple to make using store-bought crescent dough, making it a quick and easy option for parties, potlucks, or satisfying your churro cravings without deep frying. The cheesecake center is rich and luscious, while the cinnamon-sugar coating gives it that unmistakable churro flair.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Refrigerated crescent roll dough (2 cans)
• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare cinnamon-sugar: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
3. Create the base: Unroll one can of crescent dough and press into the bottom of the pan, sealing seams to form a solid layer.
4. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Assemble: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom layer of dough. Unroll the second can of dough and place it on top, sealing seams again.
6. Add topping: Pour melted butter over the top dough layer, then evenly sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
7. Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
8. Cool and slice: Let cool completely before slicing into bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12–16 bars.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate swirl: Add a swirl of Nutella or melted chocolate to the cheesecake filling.
• Fruit layer: Spread a thin layer of jam or fruit compote between the cheesecake and top crust.
• Pumpkin twist: Add a few tablespoons of pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the filling for a fall-inspired version.
• Spiced sugar: Mix in a bit of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Mini version: Make individual servings in muffin tins with crescent roll dough circles.

Storage/reheating

Store Churro Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be served cold or brought to room temperature. To warm them slightly, microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds or place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, puff pastry works well but will be slightly flakier and less chewy than crescent dough.

Do I need to chill this before serving?

It tastes great both chilled and at room temperature, but chilling helps the cheesecake layer set fully.

Can I freeze churro cheesecake bars?

Yes, freeze slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely—this dessert keeps well and can be made a day in advance.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat gives the richest texture and flavor. Avoid fat-free cream cheese for best results.

What kind of sugar works best for the topping?

Regular granulated sugar gives the perfect churro-like crunch when baked with cinnamon.

How do I seal the crescent dough seams?

Use your fingers or a rolling pin to gently press the seams together to create a solid sheet.

Can I add eggs to the cheesecake layer?

You don’t need eggs for this recipe—the no-bake-style filling sets well with just cream cheese and sugar.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Chill the bars completely and use a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in two separate pans or one larger sheet pan if you’re feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Churro Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts—crispy, cinnamony churros and smooth, luscious cheesecake. Easy to make, even easier to eat, and guaranteed to wow your guests, this recipe is a must-have in your sweet treat lineup. Whether you’re making it for a party or just a cozy weekend dessert, one bite will have everyone asking for the recipe.

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