Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If there’s ever been a dessert that knows how to steal the show, it’s Churro Cheesecake Bars. Imagine the joy of biting into a bakery-style churro, dusted in sweet cinnamon sugar, and then bringing together all the creamy richness of your favorite cheesecake—these bars are just that perfect, irresistible mashup. With a buttery crescent dough crust, a luscious layer of vanilla-scented cream cheese, and a crisp, golden cinnamon-sugar topping, this treat turns an ordinary day into a cause for celebration. They’re as easy to make as they are to love, and no one will ever believe just how simple they are to put together!
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s no need to go hunting for specialty ingredients—the magic of Churro Cheesecake Bars comes from pantry staples. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen for the unique taste, texture, or gorgeous swirl of color it brings. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips for extra success:
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic churro flavor and lovely warm aroma throughout each bite.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that signature crackly cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets: The shortcut secret to a perfect, flaky crust (and top!) with zero fuss—just unroll and go.
- Full fat cream cheese (softened): Makes the cheesecake layer extra creamy, rich, and dreamy; don’t skimp on the fat!
- More granulated sugar: Whipped into the cream cheese for perfect sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Large egg: Binds the cheesecake filling together, giving it a soft custard-like set.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle, fragrant warmth—don’t skip this magical splash!
- Unsalted butter (melted): Melts into the top layer for a golden, gorgeous finish and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
- Optional toppings: Think whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel for extra wow-factor—totally up to your mood!
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Mix Up the Cinnamon Sugar
Start things off with a simple but essential step—just combine the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Give it a good mix so it’s evenly blended. Set this irresistible mixture aside; you’ll use it to layer that classic churro flavor throughout the bars and as a finishing touch up top.
Step 2: Prep Your Pan and the First Crescent Layer
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking pan so nothing sticks later. Sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of your cinnamon sugar onto the bottom of the pan—this little detail is a game-changer, creating a sweet, spiced crust. Unroll one tube of crescent dough, gently press the seams together if you’re working with perforated dough, and carefully stretch it to cover the bottom of the pan. No need for perfection—the cheesecake filling will hide any “oops” moments!
Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling
Add the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to a large bowl. Using a mixer, beat everything together until silky smooth and creamy, with no lumps. This is the dreamy heart of your Churro Cheesecake Bars, so take a minute to scrape down the sides and ensure every bit is blended to perfection.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour your cream cheese mixture over the crescent crust and use a spatula to spread it gently into an even layer. Unroll your second crescent dough tube, press the seams together just like before, and lay it right over the cream cheese filling. It’s okay if there’s a little overlapping—just cover as much as you can for that lovely, golden top.
Step 5: Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Next comes the magic touch! Gently pour your melted butter over the top layer of dough, using the back of a spoon to spread it to the edges. Sprinkle all of your remaining cinnamon sugar evenly across the top—watch as it instantly transforms into a crust of glittering sweetness.
Step 6: Bake, Chill, and Slice
Move your pan to the center rack of your oven and bake for 26 to 30 minutes, or until the top has puffed up and turned a beautiful golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate until everything is nicely chilled. Once set, use a sharp knife to cut your Churro Cheesecake Bars into squares. Get ready for the gasps of delight!
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
An extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can dress these bars up for a special occasion. For a truly show-stopping finish, try topping with sliced strawberries or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Each little flourish adds a personal touch to your Churro Cheesecake Bars and makes them even more memorable.
Side Dishes
Churro Cheesecake Bars are quite decadent, so pairing them with something a bit lighter works beautifully. Think of fresh fruit salad, a cool glass of milk, or a simple hot coffee. If you’re serving at brunch, add other finger-friendly sweets like mini muffins or chocolate-dipped fruit to create a stunning dessert spread!
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with how you serve them! Stack bars on a cake stand dusted with cinnamon, or layer them in a trifle glass with whipped cream and berries for an eye-catching dessert parfait. For parties, cut them into bite-sized pieces and stick each with a toothpick—suddenly, your Churro Cheesecake Bars are the hit of the dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra Churro Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep deliciously for up to 5 days, and the flavors seem to get even better as everything melds together. Just be warned—they have a habit of disappearing quickly!
Freezing
To enjoy your favorite treat later, simply freeze the bars (cut or uncut) by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and sealing in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for around 2 months, and you can thaw slices overnight in the fridge whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
Although Churro Cheesecake Bars are fantastic cold, you can serve them gently warmed for an extra special touch. Warm individual bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. If you prefer them more like a classic cheesecake, just serve straight from the refrigerator.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat?
You can, but for the richest, creamiest texture, full-fat cream cheese is best. Low-fat versions might alter the filling’s consistency and flavor slightly, but they will still taste good!
Is it possible to make Churro Cheesecake Bars in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, they taste even better after some chill time in the fridge. Make them the day before your event and simply slice before serving.
Can I substitute crescent roll dough with puff pastry?
Puff pastry creates a flakier, lighter base. While it won’t be exactly the same as the classic version, it adds a unique texture—just be sure to adjust baking times as needed and keep an eye out for over-browning.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The top layer should be golden, puffy, and slightly firm to the touch. If it looks pale or jiggly in the center, give it a few more minutes. You want that crescent crust to fully bake through for maximum deliciousness.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Use a certified gluten-free crescent dough and double-check your other ingredients for any gluten-containing additives. The results will be just as scrumptious.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with Churro Cheesecake Bars—they deliver all the cozy, nostalgic charm of carnival churros with the creamy bliss of classic cheesecake. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just craving a little joy in your day, make a batch and watch them disappear. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!
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Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect combination of churros and cheesecake with these delectable Churro Cheesecake Bars. A buttery crescent roll crust is filled with a creamy cheesecake layer, topped with cinnamon sugar for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Bars:
- Two 8-oz packages refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets
- 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
Instructions
- Cinnamon sugar: Combine cinnamon and sugar. Set aside.
- Cheesecake bars: Preheat oven to 350°F with a rack in the middle of the oven. Grease a 9×13 baking pan and sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar in the bottom.
- Open one tube of crescent rolls. Unroll the dough and press the seams together to form one rectangular piece. Place into the bottom of the prepared 9×13 baking pan, covering the whole bottom of the pan.
- Combine cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla, beating until smooth. Pour the mixture over the crust and spread into an even layer.
- Use the second tube of crescent roll dough, unroll and press the seams together, then place it over the cream cheese layer. It should cover the cream cheese completely.
- Pour melted butter over the top and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle with remaining cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 26-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack, then chill in the fridge. Cut into bars and serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Churro Cheesecake Bars, Dessert, Cheesecake Recipe, Churro Recipe
