Save
This churro cheesecake combines the warm cinnamon sugar of classic churros with the rich creaminess of cheesecake for a dessert that's both familiar and innovative. The contrast between the flaky crescent layers and the smooth cheesecake filling creates an irresistible texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
I first made this for my daughter's quinceañera celebration when I needed something that would feed a crowd without keeping me in the kitchen all day. It disappeared faster than any other dessert on the table and has become our most requested family celebration treat.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: provides the flaky crust that mimics the texture of fried churros without the hassle
- Full fat cream cheese: creates the richest most luxurious filling avoid light versions that can become watery
- Ground cinnamon: use Ceylon cinnamon if possible for a more complex flavor profile
- Melted butter: helps create that authentic churro taste while helping the cinnamon sugar adhere properly
- Vanilla extract: enhances both the cheesecake filling and complements the cinnamon choose pure rather than imitation
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:
- Mix ground cinnamon and sugar until completely uniform in color. This creates the classic churro flavor profile that will coat both the bottom and top of your bars.
- Create the Base Layer:
- Press the seams of the first package of crescent dough firmly together to prevent gaps. This foundational layer needs to be solid to hold your cheesecake filling without leaking through.
- Make Perfect Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat cream cheese until completely smooth before adding other ingredients. Room temperature cream cheese is essential here any lumps now will remain in your finished dessert.
- Assemble the Top Layer:
- Gently stretch the second sheet of dough over the filling without pressing down. The goal is to create a light seal at the edges while allowing the dough to rise during baking.
- Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar:
- Use a pastry brush for the most even coating of butter before generously sprinkling with cinnamon sugar. The butter creates that authentic churro exterior when baked.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Watch carefully during the final minutes of baking as the high sugar content can quickly go from golden to burnt. Look for even browning and slight puffing of the top layer.
Save
The cinnamon sugar mixture is truly the magical element of this recipe. I keep a jar of premixed cinnamon sugar in my pantry specifically for this dessert. My grandmother taught me that the right ratio of cinnamon to sugar makes all the difference between a good churro dessert and an extraordinary one.
Storage Solutions
These bars maintain their best quality when refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavor actually improves after the first day as the cinnamon infuses throughout the layers. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture results.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your crescent dough seems too soft to work with, chill it for 10 minutes before unrolling. This makes it much easier to handle without tearing. Should you notice the top browning too quickly during baking, loosely cover with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time. This prevents burning while ensuring the middle sets properly. For clean slices, refrigerate the baked cheesecake thoroughly then use a hot knife wiped clean between cuts.
Festive Variations
Transform this recipe for different occasions by adding seasonal touches. For summer gatherings, serve with fresh strawberries or a mixed berry compote spooned over each slice. During fall, add a drizzle of salted caramel sauce and a sprinkle of toasted pecans. For Christmas, incorporate a quarter teaspoon of ground cardamom into your cinnamon sugar mixture for a festive twist that complements the traditional flavors beautifully.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor in these Churro Cheesecake Bars. Low-fat versions contain more moisture and can make the filling less stable, potentially resulting in a softer, less set cheesecake layer.
- → How do I store leftover cheesecake bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For the best texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
- → Can these bars be frozen?
Yes! These Churro Cheesecake Bars freeze well. Cut into individual portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- → What if I can't find crescent roll sheets?
Regular crescent roll dough works perfectly fine. Simply pinch the perforated seams together firmly to create a solid sheet before using. Press carefully to ensure no gaps remain that could allow the filling to leak through.
- → How do I know when the bars are properly baked?
The top should be puffed and golden brown, and the edges slightly pulled away from the sides of the pan. The center might still have a slight jiggle, which is normal as it will set completely during refrigeration.
- → Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling?
Absolutely! Consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the filling for different flavor variations that complement the churro theme.