Churro Cheesecake recipe: A Delicious Fusion of Two Beloved Desserts

Introduction

Churro lovers and cheesecake fans, this one’s for you! Imagine the creamy, dreamy richness of cheesecake combined with the warm, cinnamon-sugary crunch of a churro. Sounds like heaven, right?

This churro cheesecake recipe is the perfect mashup of two iconic desserts, and trust me—it’s a game-changer. Crispy, sweet layers sandwiching a smooth, velvety filling? Yes, please!

I’ll walk you through this easy, mouthwatering treat step by step. So, grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s get baking! 🍰✨

Churro Cheesecake

Churro cheesecake is pure genius! It’s the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and crispy, cinnamon-sugar churros—familiar yet totally unique. The rich, velvety filling meets a warm, golden crunch, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and exciting. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something different!

Why this recipe works

Before we get started, let’s make sure you have everything you’ll need for this delicious dessert. Having the right churro cheesecake ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of textures and flavors. So, get ready to gather these essential components:

Ingredients needed

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
• For the Churro Topping:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• For the Optional Churro Pieces:
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Recipe overview

Alright, it’s time to get baking! This churro cheesecake recipe may seem a bit complex, but don’t worry, it is very manageable when you follow the steps properly. This is a step-by-step guide that will make sure you make this recipe perfectly:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and beat until creamy.
   • Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until combined, scraping the sides of the bowl if needed. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Pour and Bake:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
   • Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
   • Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
4. Prepare Optional Churro Pieces:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut into thin strips.
   • Bake on a lined sheet for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
   • Combine the sugar, cinnamon and salt in a bowl. While the churro strips are still warm, lightly coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Prepare the Churro Topping:
   • In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon (and salt, if using). Whisk until combined.
6. Add Topping:
   • Spread the melted butter mixture evenly over the top of the cooled cheesecake.
   • If using the optional puff pastry pieces, arrange them on top of the cheesecake
7. Serve:
   • Remove the sides of the springform pan, slice, and serve.

Optional toppings

Alright, while the recipe is straightforward, a few extra tips and tricks will help make your churro cheesecake a true masterpiece. Let’s dive in!

• Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This will help create a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once the eggs are added, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and may cause cracking.
• Bake Low and Slow: Bake the cheesecake at a lower temperature for a longer period of time to prevent cracking. This will also help to achieve a more even texture.
• Cool in the Oven: Cooling the cheesecake slowly, with the oven door slightly ajar, helps prevent cracking due to sudden temperature changes. This gradual change is key to a perfect surface.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This allows it to set completely, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize the toppings, add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate, or even use a different type of crust.

More cheesecake recipes

Okay, it’s time to be real, this is a decadent dessert. It’s a must-try but it is also important to have an idea of the nutritional value of what we are eating. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

*Keep in mind that these values are approximate and will vary according to ingredients and portion sizes.

Recipe

Got some questions about making a churro cheesecake? You are not alone! Here are the most common FAQs to help you out:

• Can I use a different type of crust?
  • Yes, you can use a different crust like oreo or even a shortbread cookie crust. Feel free to experiment with different textures to create your perfect dessert.
• Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
  • Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Once it’s baked, chilled, and topped, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
  • Bake at a low temperature, cool it slowly, and don’t overmix the batter, making sure that the cream cheese is fully softened. This should avoid any cracks and guarantee a beautiful final product.
• Can I freeze leftover cheesecake?
  • Yes, you can! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Can I add a different filling?
  • Of course! Feel free to add your favorite flavors, such as caramel, dulce de leche, or chocolate to the filling. It’s all about getting your perfect cheesecake.
• What does it mean to “bake low and slow”?
  • Baking at a low temperature for a longer time allows the cheesecake to cook evenly. This also helps to prevent the formation of cracks on the surface.
• Can I use store bought churro pieces?
  • Yes, you can, if you want to make the recipe easier, you can use store-bought mini churros to add to the topping.

Churro Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

Cinnamon sugar:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cheesecake bars:

* 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
*   ¼ cup granulated sugar
*   6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
*   1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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• 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs

Instructions

Cinnamon sugar:

• Combine the sugar, cinnamon and salt in a bowl, whisk well, and set aside.

Cheesecake bars:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and beat until creamy.
   • Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until combined, scraping the sides of the bowl if needed. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Pour and Bake:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
   • Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
   • Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.
4. Add Topping:
   • Cut the cheesecake in to bars and lightly coat them with the cinnamon sugar mixture
5. Serve:
   • Slice, and serve.

Notes

• Soften the cream cheese fully.
• Do not overmix the batter.
• Bake low and slow.
• Cool in the oven to avoid cracks.
• Chill thoroughly before serving.

Optional toppings:

• Drizzle of caramel
• Drizzle of chocolate
• Store bought churros
• Fresh fruit

Nutrition

Okay, it’s time to be real, this is a decadent dessert. It’s a must-try but it is also important to have an idea of the nutritional value of what we are eating. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

*Keep in mind that these values are approximate and will vary according to ingredients and portion sizes.

Conclusion

And there you have it – a step-by-step guide to creating a decadent churro cheesecake that’s guaranteed to impress. With the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, warm spices, and a hint of crispness, this is a dessert that’s truly irresistible. From the preparation of the crust to the final sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar, each step of this recipe will transform a classic dessert into something new and exciting. You now know all the secrets to making the most delicious churro cheesecake, so go ahead and fire up your oven, grab your ingredients, and enjoy every single slice of this culinary masterpiece. It’s perfect for any occasion, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking, and enjoy!

Check out this delicious Philadelphia Cherry Cheesecake Recipe for more cheesecake inspiration!