Churro Cheesecake Recipe: Churro cheesecake combines two iconic desserts—churros and cheesecake—into a heavenly treat that’s creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious. Imagine biting into a soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated crust that cradles a velvety cheesecake filling. It’s no wonder this dessert is a fan favorite at parties and gatherings. The contrast between the cinnamon-dusted layers and the rich cheesecake makes this recipe a must-try!
Ready to create this dessert masterpiece at home? Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients Needed for Churro Cheesecake
To create the perfect churro cheesecake, you’ll need a mix of everyday ingredients and a few essentials to capture that authentic churro flavor.
Core Ingredients
- 2 cans of crescent dough
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Additional Flavor Options
- A pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice twist
- Chocolate chips for added richness in the filling
- Caramel drizzle for serving
Equipment Needed
You don’t need fancy equipment to make churro cheesecake. Here are the basics:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Preparation Time and Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
- Serving Size: 12-16 slices
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Churro Cheesecake
Step 1: Gather Ingredients and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even baking, so your cheesecake sets perfectly. While the oven heats up, gather and measure all your ingredients. Trust me, having everything ready ahead of time makes the process so much smoother.
Step 2: Prepare the Churro Base
Create the churro crust by combining granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of your baking dish. Sprinkle half of your cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough. This will form the sweet, spiced base layer.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients fully. A smooth, lump-free filling is key to a creamy cheesecake texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared base. Spread it evenly using a spatula to ensure the whole dish is covered. Next, unroll the second can of crescent dough and carefully lay it over the filling. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—it’ll still bake beautifully!
Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Take the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture and sprinkle it generously on top of the crescent dough layer. To enhance the churro flavor, brush melted butter over the dough before adding the sugar. This will give the top layer a delicious golden-brown crust.
Step 6: Bake the Churro Cheesecake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it—once the top is puffed and golden brown, you’re good to go. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can tent the dish with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Let the Cheesecake Cool
After removing the cheesecake from the oven, allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step is crucial to ensure the filling sets properly and maintains its creamy consistency.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice the churro cheesecake into squares or rectangles. For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. Serve your cheesecake with a drizzle of caramel or a dollop of whipped cream for a touch of indulgence.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Churro Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can cause cracks in the cheesecake. Pull it out once the center is slightly jiggly.
- Customization: Add a layer of chocolate ganache for an extra twist!
Common Substitutions
- Dough Alternatives: Use puff pastry or phyllo dough if crescent dough isn’t available.
- Sugar-Free Version: Swap regular sugar with a low-calorie sweetener.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter.
How to Store Churro Cheesecake
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chocolate syrup
- Beverages: Serve with coffee, hot chocolate, or a cinnamon latte for a cozy dessert experience
Nutritional Information
Fat: 18g
Calories: ~350 per serving
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
FAQs about Churro Cheesecake Recipe
1. What ingredients do I need for a churro cheesecake?
To make churro cheesecake, you’ll typically need cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, crescent roll dough, and cinnamon sugar. For a precise list and measurements, refer to your specific recipe.
2. How long does it take to make churro cheesecake?
Preparation time can vary, but it generally takes about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 30-40 minutes of baking time. Be sure to allow additional time for the cheesecake to cool and set, ideally overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Can I make churro cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, churro cheesecake is an excellent dessert for making ahead. It needs to chill in the fridge for several hours, so making it a day before serving works perfectly.
4. What’s the best way to store churro cheesecake?
Churro cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It usually lasts for up to 5 days.
5. Is there a gluten-free option for churro cheesecake?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free churro cheesecake, simply substitute the crescent roll dough with a gluten-free alternative and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
6. Can I freeze churro cheesecake?
Yes, churro cheesecake freezes well. Wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
7. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
To prevent cracking, avoid over-mixing the batter, which can incorporate too much air. Also, bake the cheesecake in a water bath, and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.
8. What toppings work well with churro cheesecake?
Churro cheesecake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Fresh fruits or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delightful touch.
