If you love the crunchy, cinnamon-sugar goodness of churros and the creamy richness of cheesecake, then this Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe is perfect for you! It combines the best of both desserts into a simple, delicious treat that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe features a flaky crescent dough crust dusted with cinnamon sugar, a luscious cheesecake filling, and a golden, crispy top layer that makes every bite irresistible. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
What is a Churro Cheesecake?
A Churro Cheesecake is a dessert that blends the classic flavors of traditional Mexican churros with the creamy texture of cheesecake. Instead of deep-frying like traditional churros, this dessert is baked in layers, with a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating on the outside and a rich, smooth cheesecake filling inside.
It’s an ideal dessert for those who love churros but want something easier to make at home. With a warm, sweet, and creamy texture, this dessert will quickly become a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make – Uses store-bought crescent roll dough and simple ingredients.
Deliciously Addictive – The perfect balance of crunchy cinnamon sugar and creamy cheesecake.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
Customizable – You can add chocolate, caramel, or fruit toppings for extra flavor.
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
This churro cheesecake is an excellent dessert for birthdays, family dinners, or weekend treats. It’s easy enough for beginners and impressive enough to wow your guests. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoying it chilled, it’s bound to be a hit!
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this Easy Churro Cheesecake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Below, I’ve listed the essential ingredients, along with some substitutions in case you need alternatives.
Essential Ingredients
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Gives the churro-like sweetness and crunch.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Adds the warm, spicy flavor that makes churros irresistible.
Crust and Topping:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough – Forms the flaky, buttery layers of the dessert.
- Alternative: Use puff pastry or homemade dough if preferred.
- Cheesecake Filling:
2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened – Creates the rich and creamy cheesecake center.
¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling perfectly.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the cheesecake’s flavor.
1 large egg – Helps bind the cheesecake filling for a smooth texture.
For the Butter Topping:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the crust and adds richness.
Alternative Ingredients for Dietary Needs
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese (like almond or cashew-based alternatives) and plant-based butter.
Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the crescent dough for gluten-free pastry dough.
Lower Sugar Option: Substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener or stevia.
Why These Ingredients Work
The crescent dough mimics the light, flaky texture of churros without the hassle of frying.
The cinnamon sugar mix gives this dessert its signature churro flavor.
The cheesecake filling balances out the crispy crust with its smooth, creamy texture.
The butter topping ensures a golden-brown finish and helps the sugar stick for extra crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making this Easy Churro Cheesecake. Follow these simple instructions for a perfect result every time!
Prepare the Baking Dish & Bottom Layer
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the bottom of the dish. This creates a churro-like base for the dessert.
- Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and gently press it into the bottom of the dish. Try to press the seams together to form a smooth layer.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, add two blocks (16 oz) of softened cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add ¾ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
- Crack one egg into the bowl and continue mixing until the filling is silky and lump-free.
Assemble the Cheesecake Layers
- Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the crescent roll dough in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly.
- Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it on top of the cheesecake filling, gently pressing to cover the entire surface.
- Brush the top layer with ¼ cup melted butter, ensuring full coverage.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered top.
Bake the Churro Cheesecake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely for at least 30 minutes.
- For best results, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing. This allows the cheesecake to set properly.
Slice & Serve
- Once cooled, slice into squares or bars.
- Serve as is, or with a drizzle of caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Enjoy your crispy, creamy, cinnamon-sugar churro cheesecake!
Tips for the Best Churro Cheesecake
To make sure your churro cheesecake turns out absolutely perfect every time, follow these expert tips!
1. How to Achieve the Perfect Crunchy Crust
✔ Use Cold Dough – Crescent roll dough is easier to handle when chilled. If it gets too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before using.
✔ Press the Dough Evenly – Seal any seams to prevent gaps in the crust. This ensures a uniform layer and a smooth texture.
✔ Don’t Skip the Cinnamon Sugar – Coating the bottom and top with cinnamon sugar helps mimic the classic churro taste and crunch.
✔ Bake Until Golden Brown – If the top isn’t crispy enough, bake for an extra 5 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
2. Preventing a Runny Cheesecake Filling
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese – Softened cream cheese blends smoothly, preventing lumps in the filling.
Don’t Overmix the Egg – Beat the egg just until combined to avoid a loose texture.
Let It Cool Completely – The cheesecake firms up as it cools. Refrigerating for at least 1 hour before slicing helps it hold its shape.
3. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerate Properly – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheat for Freshness – Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to bring back that just-baked taste.
Freeze for Later – Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly before serving.
4. Serving Suggestions for Extra Flavor
Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate – A little extra sweetness makes it even more indulgent.
Top with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream – Adds a creamy, cold contrast to the warm, cinnamon flavor.
Sprinkle Powdered Sugar – For a bakery-style presentation, lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Delicious Variations of the Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe
Want to get creative with your Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe? Here are some fun variations that put a unique spin on this delicious dessert!
One of the best things about this Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe is how versatile it is. You can make mini churro cheesecakes, add a rich chocolate drizzle, or even create a holiday-inspired version with warm spices. Whether you want a classic churro cheesecake or a twist on the original, there’s a variation for every craving.
Not just simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, the combination of a crispy cinnamon-sugar crust and creamy cheesecake filling will always be a hit.
Try one (or all) of these Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe variations and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this delightful dessert!
1. Mini – A Bite-Sized Delight!
Instead of baking in a large dish, try making individual churro cheesecakes using a muffin tin!
✅ How to Make It:
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease the cups.
- Cut the crescent dough into smaller circles to fit each cup.
- Press the dough into the bottom, add a spoonful of cheesecake filling, and cover with another layer of dough.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and bake for 20–25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Let cool before serving!
🧁 Why You’ll Love It: These bite-sized cheesecakes are great for parties, potlucks, or portion control!
2. Chocolate Drizzled – A Sweet Twist!
Want a chocolatey upgrade? A drizzle of melted chocolate takes this dessert to another level!
✅ How to Make It:
- After baking and cooling, drizzle melted dark, milk, or white chocolate over the top.
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder before serving.
🍫 Pro Tip: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a chocolate-flavored churro cheesecake!
3. Spiced Holiday – A Festive Treat!
Add a warm, cozy holiday twist by incorporating seasonal spices!
✅ How to Make It:
- Mix ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves into the cinnamon sugar for a holiday-spiced crust.
- Swap vanilla extract for maple or almond extract for a festive flavor.
- Top with candied pecans or crushed gingerbread cookies before serving.
🎄 Why You’ll Love It: It’s the perfect dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or holiday gatherings!
4. Dulce de Leche Churro Cheesecake (Inspired by Traditional Latin Flavors!)
For an extra rich and caramelized version, add dulce de leche to the cheesecake filling!
✅ How to Make It:
- Swirl ½ cup dulce de leche into the cheesecake batter before layering.
- Drizzle extra dulce de leche on top before serving.
- Sprinkle with sea salt for a salted caramel touch.
🍮 Why You’ll Love It: The sweet, creamy caramel pairs beautifully with the crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust!
5. No-Bake Churro Cheesecake (A Quick & Easy Alternative!)
If you want to skip the baking, try a no-bake version using a graham cracker crust!
✅ How to Make It:
- Mix crushed cinnamon graham crackers with melted butter and press into a dish.
- Beat the cheesecake ingredients (without the egg) and spread over the crust.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
❄ Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for summer when you don’t want to turn on the oven!
Love chewy desserts? Try these Brownie Cookies for a rich, chocolatey delight.Want another easy dessert? This Strawberry Crunch Cake is a fruity, crunchy, and creamy dream.Craving a different kind of pastry? Make an Easy Homemade White Pizza for a savory twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is churro dough called?
Churro dough is called pâte à choux (or choux pastry). It’s the same dough used for cream puffs and eclairs. Unlike typical bread dough, choux pastry is unique because it’s made by cooking flour, butter, and water together before adding eggs. This process creates a dough that puffs up when fried, giving churros their signature crispy exterior and airy, tender inside.
💡 Fun Fact: Traditional churros don’t use eggs, making them denser than classic choux pastry!
2. What is the difference between New York-style cheesecake and Italian cheesecake?
✔ New York-Style Cheesecake
- Made with cream cheese as the primary ingredient.
- Dense, rich, and ultra-creamy with a smooth texture.
- Often includes sour cream or heavy cream for extra richness.
- Typically baked in a water bath to prevent cracking.
✔ Italian Cheesecake
- Made with ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese.
- Lighter, drier, and slightly grainier in texture.
- Often sweetened with honey and flavored with citrus zest or liqueurs.
- Baked with a traditional pastry crust instead of a graham cracker base.
🥄 Which One is Churro Cheesecake More Like?
Churro cheesecake is closer to New York-style cheesecake because it uses cream cheese and has a rich, smooth filling. However, the cinnamon-sugar crust makes it uniquely different from both styles!
3. How do you keep a cheesecake base crispy?
If you want a crispy, non-soggy base, follow these expert tips:
✔ Use a Preheated Oven – Baking at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) helps crisp up the crust before the filling softens it.
✔ Don’t Overload with Filling – Too much moisture can seep into the crust, making it soggy. Spread an even, moderate layer.
✔ Bake Long Enough – Make sure the cheesecake is fully set before removing it from the oven. A soft center can release extra moisture.
✔ Cool Properly – Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. Sudden chilling can create condensation, making the crust wet.
🍪 Bonus Tip: Some bakers sprinkle crushed graham crackers or cornstarch on the crust before adding the cheesecake filling to absorb extra moisture!
4. Why are my churros not fluffy?
If your churros turned out dense instead of light and fluffy, here are some possible reasons:
❌ Too Much Flour – Adding too much flour makes the dough heavy, preventing it from puffing up.
❌ Oil is Too Cold – Churros need to be fried at 375°F (190°C). If the oil is too cold, they won’t expand properly.
❌ Not Enough Air in the Dough – Traditional choux pastry relies on steam to create air pockets. If your dough is too thick, it won’t expand.
❌ Overmixing the Dough – Overworking the dough can make it tough and dense. Mix just until combined.
🔥 Fix It: Make sure to cook your churro dough properly before frying, and always use the right oil temperature for crispy, airy churros!
Conclusion
Churro cheesecake is the ultimate dessert that brings together the crispy, cinnamon-sugar goodness of classic churros with the creamy, rich texture of cheesecake. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family gathering, or just treating yourself, guaranteed to impress!
By following the step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and fun variations, you can customize to suit any occasion. Whether you drizzle it with chocolate, add a dulce de leche swirl, or make mini versions, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this churro.
Not just delicious but also simple to make. The combination of a flaky crescent dough crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and cinnamon-sugar topping makes every bite irresistible.
So, preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to bake this Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your homemade churro cheesecake, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
Easy Churro Cheesecake Recipe – Crispy, Creamy & Irresistible!
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Silicone spatula
- Pastry brush
- Knife for slicing
Ingredients
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- For the Crust and Topping:
- 2 cans 8 oz each refrigerated crescent roll dough
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- For the Butter Topping:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish & Bottom Layer
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the bottom of the dish.
- Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and gently press it into the bottom of the dish, sealing the seams together.
- Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 blocks (16 oz) of softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add ¾ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Crack in 1 egg and mix just until incorporated.
- Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake Layers
- Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the crescent roll dough in the baking dish.
- Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the cheesecake filling, pressing lightly to seal the edges.
- Brush the top layer with ¼ cup melted butter, ensuring full coverage.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered top.
- Step 5: Bake & Cool
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely for at least 30 minutes.
- For best results, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Step 6: Slice & Serve
- Cut into squares or bars and serve!
- Enjoy as is, or with a drizzle of caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
For a crispier top: Bake an extra 5 minutes until golden brown.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
📋 Recipe Details
✔ Prep Time: 10 minutes
✔ Cook Time: 35 minutes
✔ Total Time: 45 minutes
✔ Yield: 12 servings
✔ Category: Dessert
✔ Method: Baking
✔ Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
✔ Diet: Vegetarian 🔑 Keywords:
Easy churro cheesecake recipe, churro cheesecake bars, cinnamon cheesecake, baked churro dessert, cheesecake with crescent dough, Mexican cheesecake 🍽 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
✔ Serving Size: 1 piece (1/12 of recipe)
✔ Calories: 320 kcal
✔ Sugar: 18g
✔ Sodium: 280mg
✔ Fat: 19g
✔ Saturated Fat: 11g
✔ Unsaturated Fat: 6g
✔ Trans Fat: 0g
✔ Carbohydrates: 35g
✔ Fiber: 1g
✔ Protein: 5g
✔ Cholesterol: 55mg