If you’ve ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into a dessert that perfectly marries the cinnamon-sugar goodness of churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake, then this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These bars bring together a crispy, buttery crust layered with smooth, tangy cheesecake, all dusted with that irresistible cinnamon sugar combo that churro lovers cherish. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising guests, this recipe nails the balance of textures and flavors that make dessert moments unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe uses a delightfully simple list of ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the iconic churro flavor and silky cheesecake texture that define this dessert.
- Ground cinnamon: Provides the warm, aromatic spice that churros are famous for, essential for that signature flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Used both in the filling and for the cinnamon sugar topping, it adds the perfect level of sweetness and crunch.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets: Acts as the buttery, flaky base and top crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Full fat cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer, offering that creamy, tangy consistency you crave in dessert bars.
- Large egg: Helps bind the cheesecake filling together, ensuring a smooth, firm texture after baking.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the cheesecake, enhancing the overall flavor profile and complementing the cinnamon perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on top to give the crust a golden finish and help the cinnamon sugar stick.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and bake evenly, setting you up for success right from the start.
Step 2: Create the Spiced Sugar Mixture
Combine one tablespoon of ground cinnamon with half a cup of granulated sugar in a small bowl. This mixture will become your signature churro-sugar topping, so make sure it’s well mixed and fragrant before moving on. This simple blend delivers all the warm, sweet notes that make these bars sing.
Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Crust
Carefully unroll one package of the crescent roll dough or spread out a sheet of dough evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. Press seams together so the dough forms a solid crust. This will bake into a beautifully flaky and buttery base that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, ¾ cup granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it’s silky smooth and fully integrated—no lumps here. This filling is what gives the bars their luscious, creamy character, so take your time achieving that perfect consistency.
Step 5: Spread the Filling and Add the Top Layer
Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the dough base, smoothing it with a spatula. Then, unroll your second crescent roll dough package or sheet and lay it carefully over the cheesecake. Press the edges lightly to seal the filling inside, trapping all that creamy goodness.
Step 6: Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Brush the melted unsalted butter generously over the top dough layer. This buttery coat helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere perfectly and creates that enticing golden sheen when baked. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly, making sure every inch is covered with that classic churro spice dusting.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the top is puffed up, golden brown, and the edges are set. The aroma of cinnamon and baked dough will fill your kitchen, signaling this dessert’s nearing perfection. Let the bars cool before slicing to achieve clean cuts and that perfect bite.
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe even more, consider dusting an extra pinch of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving for a fresh zing. Whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce are also fabulous additions that add a touch of decadence and enhance the dessert’s creamy texture with a little extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dessert stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh berry compote can bring a refreshing contrast in temperature and flavor. The cold creaminess or tartness from berries complements the warm cinnamon scent and rich cheesecake layers perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serve them on decorative skewers dusted with extra cinnamon sugar. Alternatively, place a single bar on a dessert plate, add a dollop of chocolate or dulce de leche sauce, and sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added texture and visual allure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Churro Cheesecake Bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors meld together over time, making each bite even more delightful. Be sure to store them chilled to maintain that creamy cheesecake texture and crispy top crust.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later, they freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen churro cheesecake bars last up to two months and thaw quickly in the fridge when you’re ready for a sweet treat.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the bars in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the crispiness of the dough while gently warming the cheesecake layer without compromising its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent roll dough?
Absolutely! While crescent roll dough is a convenient shortcut, homemade puff pastry or pie dough will work beautifully, adding even more flaky texture. Just be sure to adjust baking time accordingly based on your dough’s thickness.
Is it necessary to use full fat cream cheese?
Full fat cream cheese works best for this recipe as it provides the richest, creamiest texture. Lower fat versions might result in a thinner filling that won’t set as nicely or taste as indulgent.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and using vegan butter, you can create a delicious dairy-free version. Just check that your crescent roll dough is dairy-free as well.
How do I prevent the bars from being too sweet?
Balance the sweetness by using a moderate amount of cinnamon sugar topping and perhaps cutting the bars slightly smaller. Pairing them with unsweetened whipped cream or fresh berries can also help mellow the sweetness.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Totally! Mixing mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling or sprinkling chopped nuts on top before baking can add fun texture and flavor variations while still keeping the churro vibes intact.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this incredible Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe in your kitchen arsenal, it’s time to treat yourself and your loved ones to a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of cinnamon, cream cheese, and buttery crust creates an unforgettable flavor adventure you’ll come back to again and again. Trust me, once you try it, these bars will become a staple for celebrations, cozy nights, or whenever that sweet craving hits!
Print
Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 21 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 49 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Churro Cheesecake Bars featuring a creamy cheesecake layer nestled between cinnamon-sugar coated crescent dough. Inspired by classic churros, these bars combine a crunchy, buttery crust with a rich, smooth cheesecake filling for a delectable treat perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Crust and Topping
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Two 8-oz packages refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz full fat cream cheese (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Additional cinnamon sugar for sprinkling after baking
- Honey or caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon cinnamon with ½ cup granulated sugar, set aside for crust coating and optional topping.
- Prepare Crescent Dough: Unroll and press one package of refrigerated crescent roll dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pinching seams to seal. Brush the dough lightly with melted butter, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over this layer.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ¾ cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
- Assemble Layers: Pour and spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crescent dough layer.
- Add Top Layer: Gently unroll the second package of crescent dough and place it over the cheesecake filling, trimming if necessary to fit. For neatness, you can pinch the edges of top and bottom dough layers together.
- Finish with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Brush the top dough layer evenly with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before cutting into 16 bars. Optionally, drizzle with honey or caramel sauce and sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar for enhanced churro flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Using parchment paper makes removal and cleanup easier.
- Optional toppings like honey or caramel sauce complement the churro flavor wonderfully.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- These bars can be served chilled or at room temperature.
