Churro cheesecake is a dreamy fusion of two beloved desserts: the crispy, cinnamon-sugar delight of a churro and the creamy decadence of a cheesecake. Originally popularized in Mexican-American kitchens and viral social media videos, this dessert has gained massive popularity for its perfect contrast of textures and bold flavors.
Its signature crunchy cinnamon crust and smooth, tangy cream cheese filling make it both comforting and unique. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just a sweet treat, churro cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping:
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2 cans crescent roll dough (8 oz each)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 large egg (optional, for a firmer filling)
Optional Substitutions:
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Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan crescent dough for a plant-based version.
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Swap sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower glycemic option.
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Gluten-free crescent dough can be used to make the recipe gluten-friendly.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
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Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:
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Mix ½ cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
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Layer the Bottom Dough:
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Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the dish.
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Sprinkle with half the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
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Make the Cheesecake Filling:
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In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
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Add sugar, vanilla extract, and egg (if using). Beat until creamy.
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Spread the Filling:
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Pour and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom crust.
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Top Layer of Dough:
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Unroll the second can of crescent dough and lay it gently over the filling.
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Add Cinnamon Crunch:
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Brush melted butter over the top.
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Sprinkle remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
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Bake to Perfection:
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Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden and puffed.
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Let cool for at least 1 hour before refrigerating.
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Chill & Slice:
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Chill for 2–4 hours before slicing into bars for clean cuts.
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Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Room Temp Cream Cheese: Always soften cream cheese to avoid lumps.
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Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerating before slicing helps set the cheesecake for cleaner cuts.
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Add a Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne to the cinnamon-sugar for a Mexican hot chocolate twist!
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Kitchen Tools: A hand mixer and an offset spatula will make your job much easier.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian-Friendly: Already vegetarian! Just ensure your crescent dough brand is.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough (available in specialty stores).
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Low-Carb/Keto: Try almond flour dough and a monk fruit sweetener cheesecake layer.
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Fusion Twist: Add a layer of dulce de leche or chocolate ganache before the top dough for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
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Presentation Tips:
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Cut into neat squares and dust with extra cinnamon-sugar before serving.
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Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for added flair.
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Pair With:
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Fresh berries or fruit salad
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream
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Mexican hot chocolate or cinnamon latte
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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 310
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Protein: 5g
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Carbohydrates: 29g
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Sugar: 18g
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Fat: 20g
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Saturated Fat: 12g
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Cholesterol: 45mg
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Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make churro cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Make it a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge.
Q: How long can I store it?
A: Up to 5 days refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I reheat it?
A: It’s best served chilled or at room temp, but you can microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds.
Q: Why is my cheesecake runny?
A: It may not have been chilled long enough. Also, skip the egg if you prefer a firmer texture.
Closing Thoughts
Churro cheesecake combines the nostalgic crunch of cinnamon churros with the velvety smoothness of cheesecake—truly a match made in dessert heaven. It’s easy, impressive, and completely customizable. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature dish!
