Churro Cheesecake Recipe: Sweet and Simple Dessert

What’s better than waking up to the smell of cinnamon, sugar, and butter baking together? This churro cheesecake recipe is the ultimate breakfast or dessert treat that brings together two iconic flavors—crispy churros and rich, creamy cheesecake. The result? A Mexican-inspired cheesecake that’s sweet, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make.

At Recipes Chrono, we believe in making cooking joyful and accessible for everyone. This churro cheesecake recipe is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just trying to whip up a weekend treat, this dish is sure to impress.

The Origins of the Churro Cheesecake Recipe

• The churro is believed to have originated in Spain, with its cinnamon sugar-coated dough becoming a staple in Latin American cuisine.
• Cheesecake, on the other hand, dates back to ancient Greece and has evolved into a globally loved dessert.
• Churro cheesecake combines the comforting flavors of churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake, resulting in a fusion that celebrates Mexican and global culinary traditions.

Cultural Significance of Churro-Inspired Desserts

• Churros are a popular treat during Mexican holidays, such as Dia de los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo.
• Incorporating churro flavors into desserts like cheesecake adds a festive and nostalgic element.
• This churro cheesecake recipe is perfect for celebrations, from family brunches to holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe

• Easy to Make: With crescent rolls as the crust, this recipe is foolproof, even for beginners.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or simply craving something sweet, churro cheesecake fits the bill.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or try variations like churro cheesecake bars for a fun twist.

Looking for more festive dessert ideas? Pair this cheesecake with Crock Pot Christmas Crack for a stress-free holiday spread or try our Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake for a show-stopping dessert table.

Why This Cinnamon Sugar Cheesecake Recipe Works

What makes this churro cheesecake recipe so special? Let’s break it down:

1. A Unique Fusion of Flavors

This dessert marries the best elements of Mexican churros—cinnamon sugar, crispy texture—with the creamy, tangy decadence of a cheesecake. The result is a treat that’s both nostalgic and novel.

2. Effortless Ingredients

Using crescent roll dough eliminates the need for complicated crust recipes. Plus, the cinnamon sugar topping adds just the right amount of crunch without extra effort.

3. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal

From kids to adults, everyone loves this dessert. It’s perfect for breakfast gatherings, potlucks, and holiday feasts.

Ingredients

To make this churro cheesecake recipe, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples. Here’s everything broken down for your convenience:

the Crust

• 2 cans crescent roll dough: Makes the process easy and gives a buttery, flaky texture.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the crust.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Combines with cinnamon for the iconic churro flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Essential for the churro taste.

the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for a smooth and creamy filling.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature): Ensures a light, custardy filling.
• ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream: Makes the filling extra creamy.

the Topping

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Add-Ons

• Caramel drizzle: For added sweetness.
• Whipped cream: Lightens up the texture.
• Fresh fruit: Strawberries or blueberries work great.

Substitutions and Variations for Your Churro Cheesecake Recipe

• Swap crescent rolls with a graham cracker crust for a firmer base.
• Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor in the cinnamon sugar mix.
• Add a dash of nutmeg for an extra layer of spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the dish to form an even layer. Pinch the seams together to seal them.
4. Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top.

Tips for Success

• Chill the dough briefly before layering to make it easier to handle.
• For an even crust, use the back of a spoon to press the dough firmly into the pan.

2. Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
4. Beat the mixture on low speed to avoid overmixing, which can cause cracks during baking.

Pro Tip

• If you don’t have sour cream, substitute it with an equal amount of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

3. Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1. Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. Mix well and set aside.

Optional

• Add a pinch of brown sugar to the mix for a caramel-like sweetness.

4. Assembly and Baking

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
2. Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the filling to create a top crust.
3. Brush the top crust with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.

Baking Tips

• For a softer texture, bake without a top crust and add the cinnamon sugar topping after baking.
• Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating for at least 6 hours or overnight.

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars

Churro cheesecake bars are a bite-sized version of this recipe, perfect for parties or lunchboxes.

1. Use an 8×8-inch square pan for thicker bars or a 9×13-inch pan for thinner slices.
2. Layer the crust, filling, and topping as described in the main recipe.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes and let cool completely before slicing into squares.
4. Garnish each bar with a small swirl of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel.

Hosting Tips: Making Churro Cheesecake for a Crowd

Scaling the Recipe

• For a larger group, double the recipe and bake in a half-sheet pan.
• Use disposable aluminum trays for easy transport if bringing to a potluck.

Serving Styles

• Pre-slice the cheesecake into individual portions for convenience.
• Serve alongside other Mexican-inspired desserts like flan or tres leches cake.

Custom Dessert Bars

• Set up a cheesecake topping station with caramel, whipped cream, and fresh fruits.
• Allow guests to customize their slices for a fun, interactive dessert experience.

Decorating Your Churro Cheesecake

Simple Garnishes

• A dusting of cinnamon sugar on top keeps things classic.
• Add whipped cream swirls for a simple yet elegant look.

Holiday Themes

• Thanksgiving: Pipe a maple syrup drizzle on top and sprinkle with candied pecans.
• Christmas: Add red and green sugar sprinkles or use cookie cutters to create festive shapes from cinnamon cookies.

Elegant Touches

• Use a piping bag to add dollops of dulce de leche or caramel in intricate patterns.
• For a luxurious finish, use edible gold flakes or chocolate curls.

Serving Churro Cheesecake for Different Occasions

Breakfast or Brunch

• Serve chilled slices with fresh fruit and coffee.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for a lighter breakfast option.

Holiday Gatherings

• Pair with Christmas Sugar Cookies or Crock Pot Christmas Crack for a festive spread.

Dessert Tables

• Serve alongside Small Apple Pies or Molasses Crinkle Cookies to offer variety.

Optional Toppings and Serving Ideas

Elevate your churro cheesecake with these delicious toppings:

• Caramel Drizzle: Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Perfect for balancing the sweetness.
• Fruit Topping: Fresh berries or sliced bananas make for a colorful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or Mexican hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• Include on a dessert table alongside Molasses Crinkle Cookies or Small Apple Pie for variety.

Churro Cheesecake for Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free Option

• Use almond flour-based crust or gluten-free cookie crumbs.
• Ensure all ingredients, like vanilla extract, are labeled gluten-free.

Lower Sugar Version

• Substitute regular sugar with a natural sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.
• Use sugar-free caramel or whipped cream as toppings.

Creative Twists to Try

Churro Cheesecake Jar Desserts

• Layer crushed cinnamon cookies, cheesecake filling, and cinnamon sugar in mason jars for individual servings.
• Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel for a portable treat.

Churro Cheesecake Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Freeze thin slices of churro cheesecake and sandwich them between cinnamon cookies.
• Roll the edges in crushed chocolate or sprinkles for added fun.

Variations to Try with the Churro Cheesecake Recipe

1. Churro Cheesecake Bars

Bake the cheesecake in a square pan and cut into bars for easy individual servings.

2. No-Bake Churro Cheesecake

Use a graham cracker crust and a no-bake cheesecake filling for a quicker option.

3. Gluten-Free Option

Substitute crescent roll dough with gluten-free cookie crumbs or a nut-based crust.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Churro Cheesecake

1. Preventing Cracks

• Always use room-temperature ingredients to avoid sudden temperature changes.
• Avoid overbaking; the cheesecake should jiggle slightly in the center when done.

2. Perfect Layers

• Spread the filling evenly to ensure a smooth finish.
• For swirls, add a brown sugar-cinnamon slurry and gently mix into the top layer of the filling.

How to Store and Reheat Churro Cheesecake

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Let frozen slices thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the cheesecake.

Pairing Beverages with Churro Cheesecake

• Hot Drinks: Mexican hot chocolate, cinnamon-spiced coffee, or chai latte.
• Cold Drinks: Horchata, iced vanilla latte, or caramel frappuccino.
• Cocktails: Cinnamon-spiced margaritas or dulce de leche martinis for a boozy twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Preventing a Soggy Crust

• Make sure the crescent roll crust is sealed completely before adding the filling.
• Prebake the bottom crust for 5 minutes to create a firmer base.

2. Avoiding Cracks in the Cheesecake

• Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing.
• Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain even temperature.

3. Uneven Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• Use a sifter to evenly sprinkle the topping, ensuring a golden-brown crust.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This churro cheesecake recipe is a dessert dream come true. With its crispy cinnamon crust, creamy filling, and versatile toppings, it’s perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or enjoying it with coffee on a lazy morning, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Churro Cheesecake Recipe

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• Author: Luna
• Total Time: 6 hours
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

This churro cheesecake recipe combines the cinnamon-sugar crunch of churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Perfect for any occasion, this easy dessert is made with crescent roll dough, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a sweet cinnamon sugar topping.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust:

• 2 cans crescent roll dough
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

• Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Make the Crust: Layer one can of crescent roll dough at the bottom of the dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
• Prepare the Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, eggs (one at a time), and sour cream. Mix until combined.
• Assemble: Pour the filling over the crust. Top with the second can of crescent roll dough. Brush with butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar.
• Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely, then refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight.
• Serve: Slice, garnish with caramel or whipped cream, and enjoy!

Notes

• Substitute crescent roll dough with a graham cracker or cookie crust for variation.
• Use gluten-free crescent rolls for a gluten-free version.
• For a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the cheesecake filling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Churro cheesecake recipe, cinnamon sugar cheesecake, easy churro cheesecake, crescent roll cheesecake