Name: Churro Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American Fusion
Ingredients: 2 tubes crescent roll dough (8 oz each); ½ cup butter, melted; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg, room temperature; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 77 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for comfort food, then this Churro Cheesecake Recipe is going to blow you away. Imagine the crispy, cinnamony goodness of classic churros combining with the rich, velvety smoothness of cheesecake, all tucked between layers of golden crescent roll dough. It’s a Mexican-inspired American fusion dessert that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just because you deserve something special, this recipe brings warmth, spice, and creamy decadence to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden tray with three twisted dough sticks laid side by side on a brown parchment paper, each dough stick pale yellow and smooth with visible spiral folds. Around the tray on a white marbled surface, there are small glass bowls containing white granulated sugar, a brown cinnamon powder, and white powdered sugar. A small white bowl holds a raw egg yolk with the white visible around it. There is a metal tray holding three blocks of cream cheese, creamy white and smooth. A white bowl holds several pieces of light yellow butter. A small dark bottle with a white cap is also present near the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Churro Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of essential ingredients, each one plays a vital role in crafting that perfect blend of crunch, sweetness, and creaminess. From buttery crescent dough to fragrant cinnamon and luscious cream cheese, these components come together to make dessert bliss.

2 tubes crescent roll dough (8 oz each): Provides a flaky and buttery base and top crust that crisp up beautifully in the oven.
½ cup butter, melted: Brushed over the dough for rich flavor and to help the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly.
½ cup granulated sugar (for churro layers): Adds sweet crunch when mixed with cinnamon and sprinkled atop the dough.
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for churro layers): Offers the signature warm, spicy note that makes churros irresistible.
16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature: Creates the creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling that’s utterly indulgent.
½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture without graininess for a smooth texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor depth in the cheesecake filling with a gentle floral warmth.
1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the cheesecake together and adds richness.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping): Sprinkled on top for a final touch of sweet crunch.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Finishes the dessert with that unmistakable cinnamon kick in every bite.

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Base Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and generously greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to remove your dessert later. Unroll one tube of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the dish, making sure to seal all the seams so no filling escapes during baking. This forms the crispy churro-flavored crust that’s essential to the dish’s delightful texture.

Step 2: Add the First Layer of Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Next, brush the entire surface of the crescent dough with melted butter — this step seals in moisture and helps the sugar-cinnamon coating adhere perfectly. Then, sprinkle half of the cinnamon and granulated sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough to create that signature churro crust packed with warmth and sweetness.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using a hand mixer until perfectly smooth and creamy. Crack in the large egg and continue beating just until it’s combined — be careful not to overmix. This smooth filling adds the luxurious cheesecake layer that balances the crunchy churro crust.

Step 4: Spread the Cheesecake Layer Over the Base

Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the prepared churro base, using an offset spatula to get an even layer all the way to the edges. This layering creates the perfect balance between crispy and creamy textures.

Step 5: Top with Second Crescent Dough Layer

Unroll the second tube of crescent roll dough and gently place it over the cheesecake filling, being careful not to tear the dough. Seal the edges by pressing down lightly. Brush the top with melted butter, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the surface. For a classic churro touch, use a serrated knife to lightly score the dough into squares without cutting all the way through.

Step 6: Bake and Chill

Bake the dessert in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. Chilling is key here as it allows the cheesecake to firm up and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Recipe

The image shows a stack of four square slices of a layered dessert on a white plate. Each slice has three layers: the top and bottom layers are light brown with a slightly rough texture, and the middle layer is a thick, creamy off-white color. The slices have clean edges and are stacked unevenly, leaning slightly to the right. The plate sits on a surface with a white marbled texture. The background is softly blurred with neutral tones, putting focus on the dessert. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving your churro cheesecake with a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate it from a simple treat to a celebration dessert. A dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce adds sweetness and visual appeal. You can also sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top for an inviting sparkle that hints at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

Pairing this dessert with complementary sides can round out the experience perfectly. Fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries add a burst of tartness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich cheesecake. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is a decadent choice that melts slowly over the warm churro crust.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut the churro cheesecake into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter as finger food at parties or family gatherings. You can also layer individual servings in small jars or cups with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to create mini parfaits that are just as charming as they are delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Churro Cheesecake Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. Just be sure to cover it well so the crust doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled and sliced pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, they keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring back that crispy churro crunch after refrigeration or freezing, warm slices gently in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This will refresh the crust without cooking the cheesecake further. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the texture as much as possible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of dough in this Churro Cheesecake Recipe?

While crescent roll dough is ideal for its flakiness and buttery taste, you could experiment with puff pastry or even pre-made pie crust. Just keep in mind these alternatives may change the texture and baking time slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the Churro Cheesecake Recipe gluten-free, you would need to use a gluten-free crescent dough or crust substitute. Ensure all other ingredients, like vanilla extract and cinnamon, are allergy-safe. The cheesecake filling itself is naturally gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe from start to finish?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to bake, and then requires chilling for at least 2 hours, so plan for roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes total before enjoying.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or two separate 9×13 pans. Just keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly with size.

What is the best way to cut this cheesecake without it falling apart?

After chilling the cheesecake fully, use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices. The scored lines on top will guide you to create perfect squares that hold together well.

Final Thoughts

This Churro Cheesecake Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug — it’s cozy, flavorful, and totally satisfying. The combination of cinnamon-spiced crispiness with creamy cheesecake filling is pure magic. I promise once you try it, you’ll be reaching for it again and again for special occasions or just because life needs a little extra sweetness. So don your apron and dive into this delightful treat; your taste buds will thank you!