Churro Cheesecake Recipe | Easy Cinnamon Sugar Dessert

Introduction

This Churro Cheesecake is a showstopping dessert that layers buttery cinnamon-sugar crust with a velvety cream cheese filling. Inspired by the crispy texture of churros and the richness of New York cheesecake, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Historical Facts

• Churros: Originating in Spain or Portugal, churros were brought to Latin America by colonists. They’re traditionally fried dough rolled in cinnamon sugar.
• Cheesecake: Dating back to ancient Greece, modern cheesecake became popular in the U.S. in the 20th century.
• Fusion Trend: The churro-cheesecake combo gained fame on social media as a mashup of two beloved desserts.

Churro Cheesecake Recipe Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cans (16 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

For Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (mixed)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Crust:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Unroll 1 can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the dish.
3. Mix melted butter, ½ cup sugar, and 1 tbsp cinnamon. Spread ¾ of this mixture over the dough.

2. Make the Filling:

1. Beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until combined.
2. Pour filling over the cinnamon-sugar crust.

3. Add Top Layer:

1. Unroll the second can of crescent dough and place it over the filling.
2. Spread the remaining cinnamon-sugar butter mixture on top.

4. Bake:

1. Bake 45-50 minutes until golden and the center is set (it should jiggle slightly).
2. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for 2+ hours.

5. Serve:

1. Mix ¼ cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon. Sprinkle over the cheesecake before slicing.

Recipe Notes

• Dough Hack: Use homemade dough for a flakier crust.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free crescent dough.
• Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.

What to Serve With Churro Cheesecake

1. Beverage Pairings

• Coffee & Tea:
  • Mexican café de olla (spiced coffee)
  • Espresso or cappuccino
  • Chai tea or cinnamon-infused black tea
• Decadent Drinks:
  • Hot chocolate with whipped cream
  • Salted caramel latte
  • Vanilla milkshake

2. Dessert Enhancers

• Toppings:
  • Dulce de leche drizzle
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries)
• Side Desserts:
  • Mini churros for extra crunch
  • Chocolate-dipped strawberries
  • Flan or tres leches cake for a Latin-inspired spread

3. Savory Contrasts

• Cheese & Charcuterie:
  • A sharp cheddar or creamy brie cheese board
  • Spiced nuts or olives to balance sweetness
• Light Bites:
  • Chili-lime mango slices
  • Cucumber salad with lime dressing

4. For Special Occasions

• Brunch Spread:
  • Serve with Mexican hot chocolate and breakfast tacos.
• Holiday Feasts:
  • Pair with spiced apple cider and gingerbread cookies.
• Party Platters:
  • Add mini empanadas or churro bites for a dessert buffet.

5. Dietary-Friendly Options

• Gluten-Free:
  • Almond flour shortbread cookies
  • Coconut milk ice cream
• Vegan:
  • Dairy-free whipped cream
  • Vegan caramel sauce