Churro Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

Are you a fan of churros and cheesecake? If so, this churro cheesecake is the perfect fusion dessert for you. Imagine the crispy cinnamon-sugar coating of a churro paired with the creamy, smooth texture of cheesecake. This delightful dessert is guaranteed to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. If you’re interested in another creamy and delicious cheesecake recipe, you might enjoy our Philadelphia Cheesecake Recipe. Learn more about churros and their history here.

The best part? This churro cheesecake is easy to make with only a handful of ingredients. You can also try our classic easy brookies for another crowd-pleasing dessert. Whether served warm or chilled, it has a flavor and texture that will make every bite irresistible. With just some crescent roll dough, cream cheese, sugar, and cinnamon, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s great for any occasion.

This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or even as a treat to enjoy with your favorite hot beverage on a cozy evening. The combination of the classic churro crunch and the soft, creamy cheesecake is sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. Plus, it’s easy enough that even beginner bakers can make it without any trouble!

Ingredients Overview

To make this churro cheesecake, you’ll need:

2 cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 large egg
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar, divided
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or maple syrup
Optional toppings: caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, or fresh berries

The ingredients are simple, but they come together to create a dessert that’s rich and satisfying. Using high-quality cream cheese and fresh cinnamon can really enhance the flavors and give your cheesecake an extra special touch.

For a slightly different flavor, you could use maple syrup instead of vanilla extract for a unique twist. The cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful texture and sweetness that brings the whole dessert together.

Tools and Equipment Needed

To make this delicious churro cheesecake, gather the following tools and equipment:

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or hand mixer
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Parchment paper (optional)
Wire cooling rack
Measuring cups and spoons

Using the right tools can make all the difference in the outcome of your cheesecake. For an in-depth look at essential baking tools, visit this article. An electric mixer will help you achieve a smooth filling, while a rubber spatula ensures that you can spread layers evenly without tearing the dough. Parchment paper is a great option to use if you want easy cleanup and to ensure your cheesecake doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Your Ingredients

Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar with cinnamon. Set aside this cinnamon sugar mixture for use throughout the recipe.
Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Creating the Base Layer

Roll out one can of crescent dough to fit the bottom of your 9×13-inch baking pan. Press the seams together to form a smooth layer.
Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on the bottom of the baking pan, then lay the dough on top. This helps form a sweet and crispy crust.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Preparing the Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 3/4 cup of sugar, followed by the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth.
Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure a consistent mixture. The goal is to have a creamy, lump-free filling that will create the perfect contrast to the crispy layers of dough.

Assemble the Cheesecake

Layering and Assembly

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent dough layer in the baking pan. Use a rubber spatula to ensure the filling is spread to all corners.
Roll out the second can of crescent dough and place it over the cream cheese layer. Press the seams together to form a uniform layer that completely covers the filling.
Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top layer of dough, making sure every part is covered for maximum flavor.

Bake the Cheesecake

Baking and Cooling

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the crescent dough turns golden brown and puffs up. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely on a wire rack. Once it has cooled, place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before slicing. Chilling helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut neat pieces without the filling oozing out.

Serve and Enjoy

Serving Suggestions

Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into bars and serve. You can add toppings like caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or whipped cream for extra flavor.
Whether you serve it warm or cold, this dessert will surely impress your guests. It’s delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Best Results

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cream cheese and egg come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth filling and prevents lumps. If the cream cheese is too cold, it will be harder to blend, leading to a lumpy filling.
Proper Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing to get clean, even pieces. Chilling in the fridge helps the layers to set firmly and makes slicing much easier.
Chilled Dough: Crescent dough is much easier to handle when chilled, so keep one can in the fridge while working with the other. This prevents the dough from becoming sticky and difficult to work with.
Parchment Paper Lining: Using parchment paper to line your baking pan can make removing the cheesecake much easier and help avoid any sticking. It also makes cleanup a breeze, which is always a bonus.
Even Spreading: When spreading the cream cheese mixture, use a rubber spatula to ensure an even layer. This helps prevent any gaps or uneven spots in your cheesecake.

Recipe Variations

Add a Fruity Twist: Add a layer of fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, between the cheesecake filling and the top dough layer for a burst of freshness. The acidity of the berries balances the sweetness of the cheesecake perfectly.
Nutty Addition: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon sugar topping for a bit of crunch. The nuts will add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy filling and flaky dough.
Chocolate Lover’s Cheesecake: Add mini chocolate chips on top of the cream cheese layer before adding the top layer of dough. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the baked cheesecake for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Mini Cheesecake Cups: Use a muffin tin to make individual servings of churro cheesecake—perfect for parties or small gatherings. These mini cheesecakes are easy to serve and look adorable, making them an excellent choice for entertaining.
Spiced Churro Cheesecake: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra layer of warmth and spice. This gives the cheesecake a more complex flavor that is perfect for fall or winter gatherings.

Toppings and Serving Suggestions

The churro cheesecake pairs well with different toppings and sides, including:

Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and brings out the cinnamon flavor, adding a touch of luxury to each bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the top for a delicious twist. The rich chocolate flavor complements the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar.
Fresh Whipped Cream and Berries: Add some whipped cream and garnish with fresh berries for a light, refreshing touch. The berries add color and a bit of tartness that balances the rich cheesecake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The cold ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm spices and creamy cheesecake.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant finish to the dessert. It’s a simple yet effective way to make the cheesecake look even more inviting.
Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate: This dessert pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai, or hot chocolate for a comforting experience. The combination of the warm beverage and the creamy cheesecake is simply delightful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Using Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese will create lumps in the filling. Let it come to room temperature for a smoother texture. This will ensure your cheesecake has a creamy consistency without any unwanted lumps.
Over-mixing the Filling: Over-mixing can make the cheesecake dense. Mix until just combined to keep the texture light and creamy. Overworking the mixture can lead to a texture that is too heavy.
Rushing the Cooling Process: Cutting the cheesecake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Letting it cool completely ensures that the filling is properly set, allowing for clean and neat slices.
Under-baking or Over-baking: Bake until the dough is golden brown and puffed. Under-baking can result in a raw crust, while over-baking can make it too dry. Keep an eye on the cheesecake during the last few minutes to ensure it comes out just right.

Storing and Freezing Tips

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftover churro cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This helps maintain the texture and prevents it from becoming soggy. The cinnamon sugar topping may soften slightly, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
Freezing Instructions: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Freezing the cheesecake is a great way to have a quick dessert ready whenever you need it.
Restoring Crispiness: To bring back some crispiness to the crust after freezing, warm the cheesecake bars in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help restore the texture of the crescent dough crust.

Health and Nutrition Facts

Calories per Serving: Approximately 284 kcal
Carbohydrates: 29 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 18 g
Sugar: 20 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg
Sodium: 315 mg
Vitamin A: 463 IU
Calcium: 35 mg

To make a lighter version of this dessert, consider using low-fat cream cheese or reducing the sugar amount. Small adjustments like these can help lower the calorie count while still keeping it delicious. You could also experiment with sugar substitutes or reduce the portion size to make it a more health-conscious choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make churro cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Chill it in the refrigerator overnight, and add any desired toppings before serving. This makes it convenient for gatherings when you want to have dessert ready to go.

Can I substitute crescent dough with something else?

Yes, puff pastry can be used as an alternative, but it will give the cheesecake a different texture. Puff pastry will be lighter and flakier compared to crescent dough, resulting in a slightly different experience.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Bake the cheesecake until the dough is fully cooked, and store it properly in an airtight container to maintain its crispness. It’s also important to allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from making the crust soggy.

Can I add other spices to the topping?

Absolutely! Adding cardamom, allspice, or even a pinch of clove to the cinnamon sugar mixture can create a more complex flavor. This is a great way to add some warmth and make the dessert more unique.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

Avoid sudden temperature changes by allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually before chilling. Overbaking can also cause cracks, so keep an eye on it while in the oven.