Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Meet your new dessert obsession: Churro Cheesecake Bars. Imagine the crispy, cinnamon-sugary magic of fresh churros mingling with the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake, all wrapped up in buttery crescent dough. These bars are mind-blowingly delicious and almost impossible to mess up, making them an absolute dream for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The blend of warm cinnamon and smooth cheesecake filling will have everyone begging for seconds. Plus, the ease of preparation is seriously unmatched—let’s make dessert the highlight of your evening!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these items for sweet, simple magic.
Tip: Room temperature ingredients mix best, especially for the cream cheese filling.

• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough or Sheets: Forms buttery, flaky layers and makes the whole process effortless. Sheet versions save time, but classic perforated dough works too—just seal the seams.
• Full Fat Cream Cheese: Opt for full fat for that ultra-creamy, non-gritty texture in your cheesecake layer. Don’t be tempted by low-fat here…trust me.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake base and makes up the bulk of that cinnamon sugar topping.
• Egg: Binds the cheesecake filling, keeping it delightfully smooth and slightly custardy.
• Vanilla Extract: Don’t skip this! It brings warm, aromatic depth to your cheesecake.
• Unsalted Butter, Melted: Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the dough and gives your top layer a churro-like golden crunch.
• Ground Cinnamon: The classic, can’t-skip ingredient for that unmistakable churro flavor.
• Optional Toppings: Try drizzling with caramel sauce, chocolate, or add a flurry of powdered sugar on top for a fun finish.

Variations

• Apple Pie Style: Dot the cheesecake layer with thinly sliced apples before adding the top crust.
• Pumpkin Spice: Blend a tablespoon of pumpkin puree into the cheesecake mixture and replace half the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice.
• Berry Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of your favorite jam on the cheesecake layer and marble with a toothpick.
• Chocolate Lover’s: Toss mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling, or drizzle melted chocolate on top before cutting.
• Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and cut back on sugar, but expect a lighter, less decadent result.

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment or foil, leaving a little overhang to make lifting the bars out for slicing a breeze. A light spritz of cooking spray never hurts.

Step 2: Mix Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar. This is your magic dust—set it aside for a minute.

Step 3: Layer the Bottom Crust

Unroll one package of crescent dough and gently press it into the bottom of your pan, pinching seams together if you’re using the perforated kind. Sprinkle a few tablespoons of cinnamon sugar evenly over the pressed dough for that authentic churro flavor kick.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until luxuriously smooth and creamy. Spread this cheesecake goodness over the bottom dough layer as evenly as possible—it doesn’t have to be perfect.

Step 5: Add the Top Crust

Unroll the second package of crescent dough and carefully lay it over the cheesecake filling. Again, seal any seams or patchwork as needed.

Step 6: Finish With Sweetness

Brush the melted butter generously over the top dough. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar all over—it will look like a lot, but don’t skimp. The sugar forms that irresistible crisp coating as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake & Cool

Bake uncovered for 28-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Cool completely before cutting for cleanest slices (pop in the fridge to speed this up). Slice into bars and, if you like, finish with your favorite toppings.

How to Serve

These bars are the MVP of both casual and special occasions. Serve them chilled for an indulgent, creamy bite, or let them stand at room temperature for a softer cheesecake layer. Pair with hot coffee, herbal tea, or even a dollop of whipped cream on the side for that coffee shop dessert vibe. For parties, cut into small squares and pile on a platter—guaranteed crowd magnet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They taste even better chilled as the flavors meld.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these bars! Place cut bars on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to airtight freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

For a warm treat, microwave a bar for just 10-15 seconds—just enough to soften slightly and intensify those churro aromatics.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Churro Cheesecake Bars are a winning combination of beloved classic desserts, and they come together with almost zero fuss. Whether you’re a baking newbie or an old pro, they’re sure to become a regular in your sweet treat rotation. Grab your ingredients, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on them. You won’t believe how quickly they disappear!

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