When I first landed in the U.S., I missed the warm, spicy flavors of home but didn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Discovering this churro cheesecake recipe was a game-changer—easy, quick, and irresistibly comforting. This foolproof churro cheesecake blends creamy filling and cinnamon sugar crunch with no soggy bottom, perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends.
Table of Contents
Why This is the BEST Churro Cheesecake Recipe
- Foolproof layering technique ensures the crust stays crisp—no more soggy bottoms.
- Expert tips included for perfect slices that look as good as they taste.
- Quick and simple steps perfect for beginner cooks and busy adults alike.
- Comes with a clear video guide to follow along and build your baking confidence.
Churro Cheesecake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine 1/2 cup sugar and 2 Tbsp cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Beat the cream cheese till smooth. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla and beat till smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Spray a 9×13″ pan with non-stick spray, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly in the bottom of the pan.
- Unroll one can of dough onto a lightly floured piece of waxed paper and press all the seams together. Carefully lift into the pan on top of the cinnamon sugar. Press to the edges of the pan.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Unroll the second can of dough and roll it out the same way as the first one. Place it on top of the filling.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on top of the dough. Bake at 350° for about 30 minutes or until light brown.
Notes
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 8 oz packages cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 cans 8 oz Pillsbury crescent dinner rolls
Ingredient Notes
Using full-fat, softened cream cheese is essential for a creamy cheesecake filling that holds together without cracking. The cream cheese must be at room temperature to beat smoothly and blend perfectly with sugar and egg, creating that luxuriously smooth texture. Also, the room temperature egg helps the filling emulsify properly, avoiding lumps and ensuring an even bake.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Churro Cheesecake
- Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This cinnamon sugar mix is the signature flavor that brings the churro essence to life in the crust and topping.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla, then beat until creamy. A smooth creamy filling is key to that melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake texture.
- Spray a 9×13″ pan with non-stick spray and sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar evenly in the bottom. This layer creates a spice-crusted base that crisps up while baking.
- Unroll one can of dough onto lightly floured wax paper and press seams together. Lift and press it into the pan over cinnamon sugar. Pressing seams firmly ensures the crust acts as a solid barrier to keep filling from leaking.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Unroll and press the second dough can on top of filling. The top dough seals in the filling, helping it bake evenly without sogginess.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on top of the dough. Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until lightly golden. The final cinnamon sugar layer gives a crunchy, caramelized top that completes the churro effect.
Tips for Perfect, Non-Soggy Results
- Use a Metal Pan for a Crispier Crust: Metal heats up faster and promotes browning, giving your crust that perfect churro crunch.
- Don’t Over-mix the Filling to Prevent Cracks: Mixing just until smooth keeps the cheesecake tender without air bubbles that cause cracks.
- The Importance of Chilling Completely: Let the cheesecake cool fully so the filling firms up and flavors meld beautifully.
- How to Get Clean, Sharp Slices (Hot Knife Method): Warm your knife under hot water and wipe dry before slicing for smooth, professional-looking cuts.
Topping, Substitution, and Variation Ideas
Serve your churro cheesecake bars with a drizzle of dulce de leche or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence. A dollop of whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries adds freshness and balance.
If you’re craving a homemade touch for the crust, try this from-scratch cookie crust option:
| Aspect | Crescent Roll Crust | From-Scratch Cookie Crust |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation Time | Quick and easy | Takes longer; involves chilling the dough |
| Texture | Flaky, buttery layers | Crunchier, buttery base |
| Ingredients | Store-bought crescent rolls | 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers, 1/4 cup melted butter |
| How to Make | Pressed dough layers | Mix crumbs and butter, press into pan, bake before filling |
Simple Cookie Crust Recipe: Mix 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup melted butter. Press into a 9×13” pan and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes before adding filling. This offers a different texture compared to the flaky crescent roll base, similar to some of the textures you might find in cookies and cream cookies.
How to Store, Make Ahead, and Freeze
These churro cheesecake bars are best enjoyed the day they are made for the perfect crust texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but note the crust will soften over time. Avoid freezing; the crescent dough does not freeze well and will lose its flaky texture when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions (Churro Cheesecake Troubleshooting)
Why is my bottom crust soggy or raw?
This usually happens if the dough seams weren’t pressed firmly or the pan isn’t prepped properly. Using a metal pan and sprinkling cinnamon sugar before the crust helps create a barrier that prevents sogginess.
How do I get clean, sharp slices?
Warm your knife in hot water, dry it, then slice. Wiping the knife between cuts keeps slices neat and prevents sticking.
Can I make this churro cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but it tastes best fresh. Store in the fridge and slice just before serving for optimal texture.
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
Puff pastry can be used but results in a different texture—less flaky and buttery. Crescent rolls give the signature churro-like layers that are key to this recipe.
How do I know when the cheesecake is perfectly baked?
The top should be lightly golden, and the filling should no longer jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan.
Conclusion
This churro cheesecake recipe is incredibly easy and delivers a comforting, impressive dessert every time. It’s a perfect treat for busy days when you want something sweet without the stress. Did you make this churro cheesecake recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Please leave a comment and a rating below, and don’t forget to share a photo on social media!
