Alright, let’s talk about something truly magical—Churro Cheesecake. If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the crispy, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a churro and the creamy, rich indulgence of cheesecake, this recipe is about to change your life.
I first made this when I was craving something sweet at, like, 11 PM (bad idea, but zero regrets). I had some cream cheese in the fridge, a roll of crescent dough, and a deep love for all things churro-flavored. The result? An easy, buttery, cinnamon-sugar-covered cheesecake bar that’s ridiculously good and dangerously addictive.
This recipe is simple—no fancy water baths or complicated techniques. Just layers of flaky dough, creamy cheesecake filling, and that signature cinnamon-sugar crunch that makes churros so irresistible. And honestly, if you bring this to a party, don’t expect leftovers. People will hover around the dessert table for this one.
Let’s get into it!
Why You’ll Love This Churro Cheesecake
✅ Crazy Easy – No special baking skills required. If you can spread cream cheese and sprinkle cinnamon sugar, you’re golden.
✅ The Best Flavor Combo – Buttery dough, tangy cheesecake, and that signature churro cinnamon crunch. It’s all there.
✅ Great for Any Occasion – Potlucks, holidays, or just a Tuesday night when you need something sweet.
✅ Minimal Ingredients – Store-bought crescent dough makes life so much easier.
Ingredients
For the Base & Topping:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough (Pillsbury works great!)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 bundles (8 oz each) cream cheese, relaxed
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix the ½ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon together. This is your magic dust—it’s what gives this dessert that classic churro flavor.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your stove to 350°F (175°C) and oil a 9×13-inch preparing dish with butter or nonstick splash.
- Open one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the dish. Pinch any seams together so you have one solid sheet.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar blend equally over the mixture.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy. It should be thick, like a rich frosting.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the dough layer.
- Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully lay it over the cheesecake layer. If it tears, just pinch it back together—it’ll bake up just fine!
- Brush the melted butter all over the top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over it.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. Your kitchen will smell unreal.
Step 6: Let It Cool (Hardest Part!)
Once out of the oven, let it cool for at least 30 minutes. Then pop it in the fridge for about 2 hours so it sets completely. I know, waiting is torture, but trust me—it’s worth it.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Cut at bars and serve cold or into room temperature. They’re amazing as-is, but if you want to go full dessert mode, drizzle some caramel sauce or melted chocolate on top.
Pro Tips for the Best Churro Cheesecake
🔥 Use full-fat cream cheese – This isn’t the time for reduced-fat. You want it creamy, not watery.
🔥 Don’t skip the chilling step – The cheesecake layer needs time to firm up. Warm cheesecake bars = gooey mess.
🔥 For extra crunch – Sprinkle a little raw sugar on top before baking.
🔥 Make ahead – These bars are even better the next day once the flavors meld together.
Variations & Add-Ons
Because why not switch things up?
🍫 Chocolate Lover’s Twist – Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer.
🍎 Apple Pie Churro Bars – Layer thinly sliced apples over the cheesecake mixture before adding the top dough.
☕ Cinnamon Roll Style – Drizzle vanilla icing on top instead of caramel.
🔥 Spicy Churro Vibe – Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar for a subtle heat.
How to Store & Reheat
💡 In the Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They taste best cold!
💡 In the Freezer: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
💡 To Reheat: Microwave for 10-15 seconds if you like them slightly warm, but they’re just as good straight from the fridge.
Personal Note: Why This Recipe is a Favorite
I swear, every time I make these, they disappear within hours. My family goes nuts over them, and honestly, I can’t blame them. The cinnamon-sugar crunch, the creamy cheesecake center, the buttery layers—it’s everything you want in a dessert.
Once, I made a batch for a potluck, and my friend literally hid a few pieces in her bag so she could take them home. No shame, I would’ve done the same.
If you love churros, cheesecake, or just ridiculously good desserts, do yourself a favor and make this. And if you do, let me know—because I guarantee you’re going to want to tell someone about it!
FAQs About Churro Cheesecake Bars
1. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
Yes! Puff baked good will provide you a flakier, more buttery surface. Just make sure to roll it out slightly so it fits the pan, and bake until golden brown.
2. Do I have to chill them before serving?
Technically, no—but if you want clean slices and the best texture, chilling for at least 2 hours is the way to go. Warm bars will be a little too gooey and messy.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them a day before, store them in the fridge, and serve them cold or at room temperature. In truth, they taste indeed way better the following day!
4. What’s the best way to reheat them?
If you like them warm, pop a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. You can also heat them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes for a slightly crispier top.
More Must-Try Desserts
If you love rich, creamy, and sweet treats, I’ve got a few more desserts you need to try! For a lighter, protein-packed option, check out this Cottage Cheese Dessert—it’s smooth, satisfying, and surprisingly delicious. If you’re into sweet and salty combos, you’ll love Strawberry Pretzel Salad—a classic with a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries. And since nothing beats the warm, spiced flavors of fall, this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is a must for cozy mornings. Attempt them all and let me know your favorite! 🍰🍓🎃
Final Thoughts
If you’ve made it this far, you’re clearly serious about dessert (I like you already). Churro Cheesecake Bars are one of those easy-to-make, impossible-to-resist treats that everyone should try at least once. They’re great for parties, holidays, or honestly, just a random Tuesday when you need something sweet.
Now go grab that crescent dough and make some magic happen. And hey, if you love them as much as I do, don’t forget to share (or, you know, stash a few for yourself).
Happy baking! 🍪✨