Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese?

While you can use low-fat cream cheese, full-fat delivers the best creamy, dense texture and rich flavor. Nonfat versions tend to make the filling thinner and less satisfying.

What if I can’t find crescent roll sheets?

No worries! Just use the classic perforated crescent roll dough. Press the seams together firmly, and it’ll work beautifully.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Absolutely. In fact, these bars cut tidiest after chilling, so making them the night before is an excellent idea. Store in the fridge and slice just before serving.

Do I need to keep them refrigerated?

Yes—the cheesecake filling requires refrigeration for both freshness and firmness. They can sit out for an hour or two if you’re serving at a party, but always return leftovers to the fridge.

Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Name: Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup granulated sugar; 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; Whipped cream (optional); Chocolate sauce (optional); Fresh berries (optional)

Description

A delectable fusion dessert, Churro Cheesecake Bars combine the crispy cinnamon-sugar exterior of churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all layered between flaky crescent dough. Perfect for gatherings and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth, these easy-to-make bars feature a luscious cream cheese filling and a buttery, cinnamon-sugar topping.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Cinnamon Sugar

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Bars

Two 8-oz packages refrigerated crescent roll dough or sheets
16 oz full fat cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

Optional Toppings

Whipped cream (optional)
Chocolate sauce (optional)
Fresh berries (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and ½ cup granulated sugar. Set aside; this will be used to create the classic churro flavor both on the crust and on top.
Prepare Baking Dish and Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Unroll one package of crescent roll dough, and press it into the bottom of the prepared dish, stretching to cover the entire base evenly.
Make Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, ¾ cup granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Be sure to scrape down the sides to fully incorporate all ingredients for a uniform mixture.
Assemble the Bars: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the layer of crescent dough in the baking dish. Unroll the second package of dough and lay it gently over the cheesecake filling, stretching to cover the filling completely.
Add Topping: Brush the melted butter over the top layer of dough, making sure to cover it fully. Generously sprinkle the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered surface to create a sweet, crunchy topping.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set. Remove from oven and cool to room temperature. For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Serve: Cut into bars and serve plain, or top with optional whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries if desired. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.

Notes

Let the cream cheese come to room temperature for a smoother filling.
Chilling the bars helps them set and makes slicing easier.
You can substitute reduced fat cream cheese for a lighter option, but the texture will be slightly different.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Feel free to add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar just before serving for an extra crunch.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 265
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg