5 Easy Steps to Make Churro Cheesecake at Home!

Have you ever tried to combine the crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated goodness of churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake? If not, you’re in for a treat! Churro cheesecake brings together two beloved desserts into one incredible treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This delightful fusion dessert features a crispy, cinnamon-sugar crust reminiscent of churros, with a smooth, velvety cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth.

Introduction to Churro Cheesecake

The churro cheesecake represents an innovative blend of two beloved dessert worlds. On one side, we have churros – those delightful strips of fried dough rolled in cinnamon sugar that bring a distinctive crunch and warming spice. While popular across Latin America today, churros first made their appearance in Spain centuries ago. On the other side, we have cheesecake – a smooth, creamy dessert with a history dating back thousands of years, evolving from simple honey and cheese mixtures in ancient times to the diverse varieties we enjoy today.

This creative dessert mashup captures the best elements of both treats: the aromatic cinnamon-sugar coating and satisfying texture of churros combined with the rich, velvety smoothness of cheesecake. The contrast between the crispy exterior and creamy interior creates a dessert experience that’s both familiar and excitingly novel. Home bakers everywhere have embraced this fusion creation for its impressive results that don’t require professional pastry skills.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start making your churro cheesecake recipe, gather these ingredients:

For the Churro Crust and Topping:

• 2 Pillsbury Crescent Dough Sheets
• 1/2 Cup Sugar
• 2 Tsp Cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz Cream Cheese (2 standard packages), softened to room temperature
• 1/2 Cup Sugar
• 1/2 Cup Sour Cream
• 1/8 Tsp Salt
• 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
• 2 Eggs, at room temperature

Optional Toppings:

• Caramel sauce
• Chocolate sauce
• Whipped cream
• Additional cinnamon sugar for sprinkling

Equipment Required

To make your churro cheesecake preparation go smoothly, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:

• 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for cinnamon-sugar mixture
• Wire cooling rack

5 Easy Steps to Make Churro Cheesecake

Let’s break down the process of making churro cheesecake into five manageable steps:

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make removal easier.
3. Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Create the Bottom Churro Layer

1. Unroll one of the crescent dough sheets and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
2. Sprinkle generously with about 1/3 of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
3. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven (it won’t be fully cooked yet).

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the sour cream, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix after adding the eggs, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the partially baked bottom layer.
2. Carefully unroll the second crescent dough sheet and place it on top of the cheesecake filling.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top layer.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is almost set (it should still have a slight jiggle).

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool the cheesecake in the pan on a wire rack for about 1 hour.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 hours or overnight.
3. Lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
4. Cut into squares and serve, optionally drizzled with caramel or chocolate sauce.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic churro cheesecake recipe, try these creative variations:

Chocolate Churro Cheesecake

1. Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling
2. Drizzle with chocolate ganache before serving
3. Sprinkle with chocolate chips along with the cinnamon sugar on top

Dulce de Leche Churro Cheesecake

1. Swirl 1/4 cup of dulce de leche into the cheesecake filling before baking
2. Drizzle additional dulce de leche over the top after cooling
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the caramel flavor

Fruity Churro Cheesecake

1. Add 1/2 cup of strawberry or raspberry puree to the cheesecake filling
2. Swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect
3. Top with fresh berries before serving

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your churro cheesecake experience with these serving ideas:

• Serve warm (but not hot) for a more churro-like experience
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast
• Drizzle with honey or agave nectar for an extra sweet touch
• Accompany with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate or strong coffee
• Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar and a cinnamon stick

Storage Tips

Properly store your churro cheesecake to maintain its delicious flavor and texture:

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container
• Keep for up to 5 days
• Allow to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for best texture

Freezer Storage

• Cut into individual portions
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil
• Freeze for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Churro Cheesecake Bars Alternative

If you prefer a more portable version of this dessert, try making churro cheesecake bars:

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars:

1. Follow the same recipe as above, but use a 9×13 inch pan
2. Adjust baking time to 25-30 minutes (the thinner bars will cook faster)
3. Cool completely and cut into rectangular bars
4. Drizzle with caramel sauce in a crosshatch pattern for a decorative touch
5. Pack individual bars in wax paper for on-the-go treats

Churro cheesecake bars are perfect for:

• Bake sales
• Lunch boxes
• Picnics
• Party platters
• Holiday gift boxes

Churro Cheesecake Cookies Option

For an even more portable treat, try making churro cheesecake cookies:

Ingredients for Churro Cheesecake Cookies:

• 1 package sugar cookie dough
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Cinnamon-sugar mixture (1/4 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon)

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Cookies:

1. Flatten small balls of cookie dough
2. Place a small spoonful of cream cheese mixture in the center
3. Fold the edges up and roll into a ball
4. Roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture
5. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes
6. Cool completely before serving

These churro cheesecake cookies provide all the flavor of the original dessert in a bite-sized, handheld format—perfect for parties or snacking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make churro cheesecake without crescent dough?

Yes! You can use puff pastry or even make a traditional graham cracker crust with added cinnamon for a different but still delicious version.

Why did my cheesecake filling curdle?

This usually happens when the eggs are added to a cold cream cheese mixture. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, churro cheesecake tastes even better after it’s had time to set in the refrigerator overnight.

Is there a way to make this dessert lower in calories?

You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and light sour cream. You can also reduce the sugar slightly, as the cinnamon provides lots of flavor.

Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling?

Yes! Try adding lemon zest, almond extract, or even a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur for a unique twist.

Key Takeaways

When making churro cheesecake, remember these essential points:

• Room temperature ingredients are crucial for a smooth cheesecake filling
• Don’t overmix the filling after adding the eggs
• Pre-baking the bottom layer creates a sturdier base
• Proper cooling is essential—be patient and allow enough time for refrigeration
• Cinnamon-sugar ratio matters—aim for a balance of sweetness and spice
• Versatility is a strength—feel free to adapt the recipe to bars or cookies
• Make ahead for best results—flavors meld beautifully overnight

The beauty of churro cheesecake lies in its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated exterior provides a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy cheesecake filling. It’s a dessert that brings together the best of two worlds, creating something that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Whether you’re making the classic version, churro cheesecake bars, or churro cheesecake cookies, you’re sure to impress family and friends with this unique and delicious treat. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it accessible even to novice bakers, while the spectacular results will make everyone think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the sweet, cinnamon-spiced delight that is churro cheesecake. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you!