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Churro Cheesecake Bars (Easy Cinnamon Dessert)

If you’re torn between the warm, cinnamon-sugar magic of churros and the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake, this Churro Cheesecake is the dessert that brings both worlds together in the most irresistible way. With layers of flaky pastry, a smooth cheesecake center, and a generous coating of cinnamon sugar, every bite delivers comfort, nostalgia, and pure indulgence.

What makes this dessert so special is its contrast of textures. The top and bottom bake up golden and slightly crisp, echoing the classic churro experience, while the center stays luxuriously creamy and melt-in-your-mouth soft. The cinnamon-sugar topping ties everything together, filling your kitchen with that unmistakable bakery-style aroma as it bakes.

This recipe is designed to feel impressive without being complicated. Using simple ingredients and an approachable method, it transforms a few pantry staples into a dessert that looks and tastes bakery-worthy. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing treat that disappears fast.

If you love desserts that are easy to make, visually stunning, and packed with cozy cinnamon flavor, this Churro Cheesecake is about to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Keep reading to discover how effortlessly this show-stopping dessert comes together—and why it’s guaranteed to earn rave reviews 🧁✨

Why You’ll Love This Churro Cheesecake

This Churro Cheesecake is everything a great dessert should be: comforting, indulgent, and impossible to resist. It combines two beloved classics into one show-stopping treat that feels nostalgic yet exciting at the same time. The cinnamon-sugar coating delivers that familiar churro warmth, while the creamy cheesecake layer brings richness and balance.

One of the biggest reasons this recipe stands out is its contrast of textures. The outer layers bake up lightly crisp and golden, while the center remains smooth, thick, and luxuriously creamy. Each bite gives you crunch, softness, and creaminess all at once—exactly what makes people reach for a second slice.

This dessert is also surprisingly easy. There’s no water bath, no complicated techniques, and no specialty equipment required. Everything comes together with simple steps and reliable results, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced home cooks.

Most importantly, this is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for holidays, parties, or casual family dinners, it’s the kind of dessert people remember—and ask for again.


Ingredients + Tips

Key Ingredients

  • Cream cheese – Full-fat cream cheese delivers the smoothest, richest filling.

  • Sugar – Used in both the cheesecake filling and the cinnamon-sugar coating.

  • Eggs – Help the cheesecake set while staying creamy.

  • Vanilla extract – Enhances warmth and depth of flavor.

  • Refrigerated dough or pastry – Creates the flaky base and top layers.

  • Butter – Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere.

  • Ground cinnamon – Essential for that classic churro flavor.

Helpful Tips

  • Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.

  • Don’t overmix the cheesecake filling—this keeps the texture smooth and creamy.

  • Press the bottom layer gently into the pan to prevent air pockets.

  • Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.


Steps (Layered Pastry & Creamy Cheesecake)

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Grease a baking dish generously and sprinkle a layer of cinnamon sugar on the bottom to prevent sticking and add flavor.

Step 2: Create the Bottom Layer

Press the pastry dough evenly into the pan, sealing the edges to form a solid base.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the bottom layer. Add the top pastry layer carefully.

Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar

Brush melted butter over the top and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.

Step 6: Bake

Bake until golden on top and set in the center. Let cool completely before slicing.


Variations

This Churro Cheesecake is wonderfully flexible and easy to customize.

  • Extra Cinnamon: Increase cinnamon for a bolder churro flavor.

  • Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate or Nutella on top.

  • Dulce de Leche: Swirl into the cheesecake filling for added richness.

  • Mini Bars: Bake in smaller pans for individual portions.

  • Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake: Add pumpkin purée and spice to the filling.

Each variation keeps the heart of the dessert intact while offering a fresh twist.


Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Churro cheesecake freezes well. Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

  • Room Temperature: Let slices sit out briefly before serving.

  • Microwave: Warm gently for a few seconds if you prefer it slightly soft.

Avoid overheating to preserve the creamy texture.


Serving Suggestions

Serve Churro Cheesecake with:

  • A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce

  • Fresh berries

  • Whipped cream

  • A dusting of powdered sugar

  • Coffee, espresso, or hot chocolate

It works beautifully as a standalone dessert or as part of a larger dessert spread.


Final Thoughts

Churro Cheesecake

A rich and creamy cheesecake layered with flaky pastry and coated in warm cinnamon sugar—everything you love about churros in an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert bar.
Prep Time: 15 minutesCook Time: 35 minutesTotal Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: Mexican-Inspired / American

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 16 oz 2 blocks cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Layers
  • 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough or similar pastry dough
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • For the Cinnamon Sugar
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • tablespoons ground cinnamon

Method
 

  1. Preheat & Prep
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Make Cinnamon Sugar
  4. Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle half over the bottom of the pan.
  5. Bottom Layer
  6. Press one sheet of dough evenly into the pan, sealing seams.
  7. Cheesecake Filling
  8. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla; mix just until combined.
  9. Assemble
  10. Spread filling evenly over the dough. Top with remaining dough.
  11. Finish & Bake
  12. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with remaining cinnamon sugar.
  13. Bake 30–35 minutes until golden and set.
  14. Cool & Serve
  15. Cool completely before slicing for clean bars.

Churro Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that instantly feels familiar yet exciting. It brings together the comforting warmth of cinnamon sugar with the rich creaminess of cheesecake, creating a treat that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Every layer works together—from the flaky pastry to the velvety center—to deliver a dessert that feels thoughtfully crafted and deeply satisfying.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance. While it’s undeniably rich, the cinnamon sugar adds warmth rather than heaviness, keeping each bite enjoyable and not overwhelming. The contrast between crisp edges and creamy filling makes the texture just as memorable as the flavor.

This is also a dessert that fits seamlessly into real life. It’s easy enough to make on a weeknight, yet impressive enough for celebrations and gatherings. You don’t need advanced baking skills or specialty tools—just a little time and a love for cozy, comforting desserts.

Churro Cheesecake also holds up beautifully. It slices cleanly, stores well, and tastes just as good the next day, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time. Whether you’re serving it to guests or sneaking a slice from the fridge, it always delivers that same satisfying experience.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy, comforting, and guaranteed to impress, this Churro Cheesecake deserves a spot in your baking rotation. Warm cinnamon, creamy cheesecake, and irresistible texture—this is dessert at its most comforting and crave-worthy 🧁✨