Name: Churro Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 3 h 49 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup granulated sugar; Two 8-ounce packages refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets; 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 15 reviews

I absolutely adore sharing this Churro Cheesecake Recipe because it brings together two of my favorite desserts into one irresistible treat. Imagine the warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a churro perfectly paired with the creamy, tangy richness of cheesecake; it’s a match made in heaven. I’ve found this dessert not only satisfies sweet cravings but also makes any gathering feel extra special, and the best part is how straightforward it is to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Churro Cheesecake Recipe

What really excites me about this recipe is the flavor combination. The crunchy, cinnamon-sugar exterior contrasts so beautifully with the smooth, velvety cheesecake filling. Every bite feels like a cozy hug—with that nostalgic churro flavor mingling perfectly with the cheesecake’s creamy texture. From the cinnamon aroma wafting through the kitchen to the first taste, it’s truly an experience that feels both indulgent and comforting.

Besides the amazing taste, I appreciate how approachable this recipe is. The ingredients are simple and familiar, and the process is fun without being overwhelming. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dabbling in desserts, you’ll find this recipe friendly and rewarding. It’s perfect for sharing at weekend breakfasts, festive celebrations, or even just treating yourself to something special after a long day. It stands out as a unique take on cheesecake that’s both homey and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A rectangular white ceramic dish filled with a golden brown baked dessert topped with a thin layer of white powder and light brown cinnamon dust, creating a slightly uneven textured surface. The dessert edges are slightly raised and crisp while the center looks soft and fluffy. The dish sits on a white marbled surface next to a wooden bowl containing extra cinnamon powder. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Churro Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simple ingredient list. Each component plays a crucial role in building that perfect balance of flavors and texture—from the buttery dough to the creamy filling and the irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Ground cinnamon: Adds that signature warm spice that defines churros and ties the whole dessert together.
Granulated sugar: Used in both the filling and the cinnamon mixture to provide sweetness and the classic churro crust.
Refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets: Acts as the golden, flaky exterior that’s easy to work with and crisps up perfectly.
Full-fat cream cheese, softened: The base of the cheesecake filling, giving it richness and a luscious creamy texture.
Large egg: Helps set the cheesecake filling for that ideal firmness without dryness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the cream cheese’s flavor with a subtle sweetness and depth.
Unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled: Brushed on top to encourage browning and meld the cinnamon-sugar topping beautifully.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cheesecake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon with ½ cup granulated sugar. This cinnamon-sugar mixture will give you that perfect churro crunch, so mix it well and set aside.

Step 3: Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough sheets and press them evenly into the bottom and sides of the prepared baking dish. I like to make sure the edges are pressed firmly to create a sturdy crust that holds the filling well.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a handheld mixer or stand mixer. Then add ¾ cup granulated sugar, the large egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until completely combined and creamy, but avoid overmixing as I want it silky, not airy.

Step 5: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer.

Step 6: Brush the slightly cooled melted butter over the top of the cheesecake layer gently. Immediately sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top so it sticks well to the butter.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheesecake center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the middle. Be careful not to overbake, as I find it tastes best with that soft, creamy center.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before slicing—this step is key to firming up the cheesecake so it cuts cleanly and tastes fantastic chilled.

Servings and Timing

This Churro Cheesecake Recipe yields about 16 generous servings, making it ideal for a crowd or for enjoying leftovers. The prep time is roughly 20 minutes, with bake time around 40 minutes. Don’t forget to add 2 hours for chilling to get the perfect texture, so total time is about 3 hours and 49 minutes from start to finish. It’s a bit of a wait, but trust me, the results are absolutely worth it.

How to Serve This Churro Cheesecake Recipe

The image shows three square bars stacked on a white plate with two cinnamon sticks beside them. Each bar has three layers: the bottom is a light golden crust, the middle is a creamy pale filling, and the top is a slightly browned, crumbly layer with a dusting of cinnamon powder. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and the background is soft and out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this cheesecake chilled straight from the fridge because the filling is perfectly creamy and firm, while the cinnamon-sugar topping remains pleasantly crisp without melting away. For an extra touch, I sometimes warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds just to soften the butter and enhance the aroma—it’s like biting into a warm churro-cheesecake hybrid.

Presentation-wise, sprinkling a little extra cinnamon sugar on top just before serving adds sparkle and heightens the churro experience. I also enjoy adding fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on the side. These accents bring freshness or richness that complement the flavors beautifully, especially for special occasions or dinner parties.

When it comes to beverages, I find this dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a spiced chai tea. For adults, a light dessert wine or cinnamon-spiced cocktail harmonizes perfectly with the warm flavors. This makes it a fantastic choice for holiday celebrations, Sunday brunches, or anytime I want to wow guests with something both familiar and exciting.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Churro Cheesecake Recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can swap the crescent dough for gluten-free puff pastry or pie crust; just keep an eye on the bake time since the texture might shift slightly. For a vegan twist, I’ve experimented using dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter—the flavor adapts nicely, though the richness is a bit different.

Flavor-wise, I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the cinnamon sugar for a warm holiday vibe, or swirl in some dulce de leche into the cream cheese filling for a caramel-infused version. For a crunchier bite, adding chopped toasted pecans or cinnamon chips to the topping gives a delightful texture surprise. You can also bake this cheesecake in individual ramekins or muffin tins for mini versions—great for parties and portion control!

As for cooking methods, while I stick to the oven for the best golden crust and even cooking, I’ve read that some people carefully adapt the recipe for an air fryer with smaller portions — just be sure to monitor the timing closely to avoid overcooking.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always recommend storing leftover churro cheesecake in an airtight container or covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without losing that creamy texture or flavor. Just make sure not to leave it uncovered, as exposed cheesecake tends to dry out or absorb other fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, this cheesecake freezes well for up to 2 months. I like to slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them together in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw the pieces overnight in the fridge to preserve the texture. Avoid freezing the cheesecake if it’s heavily topped with extra garnishes because they might not survive the cold as well.

Reheating

To reheat, I suggest gently warming individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to refresh that buttery cinnamon topping and soften the filling slightly. Avoid reheating for too long or at high power, as this can dry out the cheesecake or make it grainy. If your cheesecake has been frozen, always thaw it fully in the fridge before reheating for best results.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated crescent roll dough?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry or a simple cinnamon pastry dough works beautifully here. The key is to have a dough that crisps up well in the oven while holding the cheesecake filling securely. Just keep in mind homemade dough might require different prep or baking times, so watch for that golden brown finish.

Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake before serving?

Yes, chilling is essential to let the cheesecake filling set and develop the right texture. Without this step, the cheesecake would be too soft and messy to cut, and the flavors may not be as well blended. I recommend at least two hours in the fridge, though overnight is even better.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! This recipe is fantastic for preparing a day ahead. In fact, it improves after chilling as the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve and consider adding fresh toppings or garnishes last minute for best presentation.

What can I serve with churro cheesecake for a complete dessert experience?

I love pairing this cheesecake with fresh fruit like berries or a mango salsa for a refreshing balance. Ice cream or whipped cream also complements it wonderfully. For drinks, coffee, chai, or a sweet dessert wine all enhance the cozy cinnamon flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, and it’s often a big hit with kids thanks to the sweet cinnamon-sugar and creamy filling. Just be mindful of portion sizes, especially because it’s rich. It’s a fun treat to make together too, letting kids sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping!

Conclusion

I really hope you give this Churro Cheesecake Recipe a try because it’s a truly special dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It brings together those nostalgic churro flavors with creamy cheesecake in a way that feels joyful and comforting. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, I’m confident it will become a favorite that everyone asks for again and again. Happy baking!