Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled a warm Churro Cheesecake from the oven, the enticing aroma of cinnamon and sugar instantly whisked me back to my cherished childhood visits to the local fair. This delightful fusion dessert marries the classic flavors of churros with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, creating a treat that’s both familiar and utterly unique. With just a handful of approachable ingredients, including buttery crescent roll dough and rich cream cheese, making this Churro Cheesecake is not only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding. It’s perfect for impressing guests at gatherings or simply savoring on a cozy night in. You’ll find that the warm, flaky exterior and velvety filling create a stunning contrast sure to win over any palate. Ready to explore how this amazing dessert comes together in your kitchen? Let’s dive in! Why is Churro Cheesecake a Must-Try? Indulgent Flavor Fusion: The classic flavors of churros collide with rich cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, like refrigerated crescent roll dough and creamy cream cheese, this recipe is a breeze to put together. Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, this Churro Cheesecake is guaranteed to impress and delight guests of all ages! Unique Texture: Experience the delightful contrast between the flaky exterior and the smooth, velvety filling that melts in your mouth. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance for busy days, as the flavors only improve after chilling overnight. Once you serve it alongside some fresh berries, it’s bound to become a favorite! Churro Cheesecake Ingredients For the Dough Base Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough – An effortless way to achieve a buttery, flaky base without the fuss of traditional pastry. For the Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese – Ensure it’s softened for a luxuriously smooth filling that is perfect for your Churro Cheesecake. Eggs – Use at room temperature to help bind the filling together beautifully. Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling, balancing its rich flavors. Vanilla Extract – Just a splash enhances the overall sweetness and depth of the cheesecake. For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping Cinnamon – The key spice that brings the signature churro flavor to life. Sugar – Combined with cinnamon, it creates a sweet coating that adds to the dessert’s appeal. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Churro Cheesecake Step 1: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Stir well to ensure an even distribution of cinnamon throughout the sugar. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes; this resting period enhances the flavor, making your Churro Cheesecake extra aromatic and delightful. Step 2: Craft Dough Base Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and press the seams together to form an even layer. Gently press the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it covers the bottom completely. Aim for a smooth, seamless base that will hold your cheesecake filling perfectly. Step 3: Mix Cheesecake Filling In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with ½ cup of sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Finally, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix to keep the filling silky without air bubbles. Step 4: Assemble and Bake Pour the cheesecake filling over the dough base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top of the filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set but slightly jiggly. This visual cue indicates your Churro Cheesecake is ready to cool. Step 5: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the Churro Cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before slicing. Chilling not only enhances the flavor but also helps set the texture, making it easier to cut into beautiful squares when it’s time to serve. How to Store and Freeze Churro Cheesecake Fridge: Store leftover Churro Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the dessert fresh while preserving its creamy texture. Freezer: If you need to keep it longer, freeze Churro Cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: To enjoy, transfer the frozen cheesecake to the fridge for 6-8 hours or overnight. This gradual thawing maintains taste and texture. Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a cozy, gooey dessert experience. What to Serve with Churro Cheesecake? Delight your senses as you create a memorable meal around this decadent dessert. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness that beautifully contrasts with the rich cheesecake. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream lends a creamy lightness to each bite, enhancing the flavors of the churro crust. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a warm, velvety chocolate sauce pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon and sugar, taking indulgence to the next level. Caramel Sauce: Sweet, buttery caramel sauce offers an extra layer of flavor that complements the richness of the cheesecake and adds a sumptuous finish. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso brightens the sweetness, creating a delightful balance that enhances your dessert experience. Ice Cream: Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy textures that’s simply irresistible. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on top can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, contrasting beautifully with the smooth cheesecake. Make Ahead Options These Churro Cheesecakes are a dream for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the sugar and cinnamon, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can pre-mix the cheesecake filling (cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before assembling—just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before using to ensure easy spreading. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the filling over your pastry base, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar, and proceed with the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have a delicious Churro Cheesecake ready with minimal fuss on your busy days! Churro Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make this Churro Cheesecake your own with these delightful variations! Fruity Twists: Add fresh strawberries or blueberries to the filling for a burst of tartness that perfectly complements the rich cheesecake. Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the cheesecake mixture for an added layer of texture and a nutty flavor enhancement. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with warm caramel sauce after baking for an extra layer of sweetness that brings a stunning presentation to the dessert. Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a mild heat that beautifully balances the sweetness. Flavorful Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut to deepen the flavor profile of the cheesecake. Whipped Ricotta: Substitute cream cheese with whipped ricotta for a lighter, creamier filling that still packs a delicious flavor punch. Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake mix. This addition makes for a fabulous melty surprise in every bite! Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and replace the eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water for a vegan-friendly Churro Cheesecake. By exploring these options, you can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences while keeping the essence of this delightful dessert intact! Don’t forget to try pairing it with some of these exciting sides or adaptations: strawberry topping or a drizzle of homemade caramel! Enjoy the journey of flavors and creativity in your kitchen! Expert Tips for Churro Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother cheesecake filling and prevents lumps. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the cheesecake filling just until combined. Overmixing incorporates air, which can lead to cracks in your Churro Cheesecake after baking. Proper Cooling: Let your cheesecake cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This step allows it to set properly and develops more robust flavors. Chill Before Serving: For the best taste and texture, chill the Churro Cheesecake for at least 2 hours after baking. This enhances the creaminess and makes cutting easier. Customize with Toppings: Consider adding toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce for an extra flavor boost. They will complement your Churro Cheesecake beautifully! Churro Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I select the best cream cheese for Churro Cheesecake? Absolutely! Look for full-fat cream cheese, as it offers the richest flavor and creamiest texture. Ensure the package is fresh and check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or color changes. Softened cream cheese, at room temperature, mixes better and ensures a smoother cheesecake filling. What’s the best way to store leftover Churro Cheesecake? Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the cheesecake fresh and the flavors intact. If you plan to enjoy it later, consider wrapping individual slices for convenience! Can I freeze Churro Cheesecake, and if so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the Churro Cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring that every exposed surface is covered to prevent freezer burn. Then, wrap it in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For a delicious treat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. What if my cheesecake filling is lumpy? No worries! If your cheesecake filling is lumpy, it usually means the cream cheese wasn’t softened enough or that it was overmixed. To fix this, ensure to beat the cream cheese at room temperature until smooth before adding other ingredients. If it becomes lumpy, gently re-blend just until combined—without overmixing! Can I make Churro Cheesecake ahead of time? Very! In fact, making it a day in advance can enhance the flavors. Just follow the baking instructions, allow it to cool, and refrigerate it. The chill time allows the cheesecake to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve later. Are there any dietary considerations for Churro Cheesecake? Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the cream cheese with a whipped ricotta for a lighter option. Additionally, consider using gluten-free crescent dough if necessary. Always double-check for allergens, like eggs and dairy, especially for guests with allergies. Churro Cheesecake: Indulge in a Sweet Flavor Fusion Experience the delightful fusion of classic churros and creamy cheesecake with this Churro Cheesecake recipe. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough Base1 package Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough An effortless way to achieve a buttery, flaky base.For the Cheesecake Filling8 ounces Cream Cheese Ensure it's softened for a smooth filling.2 large Eggs Use at room temperature.1/2 cup Sugar Sweetens the cheesecake filling.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances the overall sweetness.For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping1 tablespoon Cinnamon Key spice for churro flavor.1/4 cup Sugar Combined with cinnamon for coating. Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishMixing bowlSmall bowlSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Churro CheesecakeIn a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the dough in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of cream cheese with 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth, add in eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.Pour the cheesecake filling over the dough base, sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, and bake for 25-30 minutes.Allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesChill for at least 2 hours after baking for the best flavor and texture. Consider adding fresh fruits or whipped cream as toppings. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
