If you have a sweet tooth craving that perfectly blends creamy richness and crispy, cinnamon-sugary goodness, you are going to adore this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe. This delightful treat combines the luscious texture of cheesecake with the irresistible flavor profile of churros, layered between buttery crescent roll dough and topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly, making it an absolute winner for sharing with family and friends or keeping all to yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet work wonders together to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each one plays a crucial role, from the smooth cream cheese that forms the velvety cheesecake layer to the cinnamon-sugar that delivers that signature churro crunch and aroma.
- Sugar (for topping), 1/2 cup: This mixed with cinnamon creates the classic churro exterior that adds sweetness and texture.
- Ground cinnamon, 2 Tbsp: The warm spice that truly transforms these bars into a churro-inspired treat.
- Cream cheese, 2 (8 oz) packages, softened: The heart of the cheesecake layer, providing rich creaminess and tang.
- Sugar (for filling), 1/2 cup: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just enough without overpowering.
- Egg, 1: Helps bind the cheesecake filling for a smooth and firm texture when baked.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Enhances the cheesecake’s flavor, adding depth and warmth.
- Pillsbury crescent dinner rolls, 2 (8 oz) cans: These convenient dough sheets create the golden, flaky crust layers that sandwich the creamy cheesecake.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9 by 13-inch baking pan and spray it well with non-stick spray. This sets the stage for baking and ensures your bars come out cleanly without sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon. This mixture mimics the signature churro coating and will be sprinkled on both dough layers to create that irresistible crunch and flavor.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
Using a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth. Add the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, then the egg and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until everything is creamy and fully combined – this creamy base is what makes these bars so decadent.
Step 4: Layer the First Dough and Cinnamon Sugar
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough. This layer will offer a sweet and spiced base that pairs perfectly with the cheesecake layer.
Step 5: Add the Cream Cheese Layer
Spread the creamy cheesecake filling evenly over the cinnamon-sprinkled dough. Be gentle to keep it level but avoid pushing it through to the bottom crust.
Step 6: Top with the Second Dough Layer
Unroll the second can of crescent dough and carefully place it over the cheesecake filling. Press the edges gently to seal everything inside, ensuring your layers stay intact while baking.
Step 7: Final Cinnamon Sugar Touch and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top of the dough. Pop your pan in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll want to see the top turn a gorgeous golden brown, signaling that your churro cheesecake bars are ready to delight.
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For a bit of flair and extra indulgence, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can add color and freshness, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bars shine as a standalone dessert but pairing them with a cup of strong coffee or hot chocolate makes for a cozy treat. A scoop of cinnamon ice cream on the side also complements the churro flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter for parties or family gatherings. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine makes charming grab-and-go gifts or lunchbox surprises.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover churro cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to 3-4 days, which makes them an excellent make-ahead treat for busy weeks.
Freezing
If you want to keep these scrumptious bars longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
For a just-baked taste, reheat bars individually in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm the entire batch in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This restores the gooey texture of the cheesecake and crispness on top.
FAQs
Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind it may alter the richness and texture slightly. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best creamy consistency.
Is there a gluten-free version of this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
To make it gluten-free, you’d need to use gluten-free crescent rolls and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified. The texture might vary but the flavor will still be delightful.
How thick should I spread the cheesecake filling?
Spread it evenly around 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick to ensure a balanced ratio of crust to filling. Too thin, and the cheesecake might dry out; too thick, and it could take longer to bake through.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins to the cheesecake layer?
Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts folded into the cream cheese layer add exciting texture and flavor, making the bars even more special.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp, clean knife warmed with hot water and wiped dry before cutting. This helps slice through the layers smoothly without dragging or squishing the cheesecake.
Final Thoughts
These Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe are truly a crowd-pleaser with their wonderful blend of buttery dough, creamy filling, and crispy cinnamon sugar topping. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you deserve a little sweetness, I promise these bars will quickly become one of your favorite desserts to bake and share. Give them a try and watch how quickly they vanish!
Print
Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Churro Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and crispy cinnamon-sugar churro flavors. Featuring layers of buttery crescent roll dough, smooth cream cheese filling, and a generous cinnamon-sugar topping, these bars are baked to golden perfection, offering a sweet, rich treat perfect for dessert or snacking.
Ingredients
Topping
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Crust & Assembly
- 2 (8 oz) cans Pillsbury crescent dinner rolls
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix cinnamon-sugar topping: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, stirring well to distribute the cinnamon evenly throughout the sugar.
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer or sturdy whisk until smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix again until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Layer the first crescent dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming a solid base layer. Make sure to seal any perforations or seams to prevent filling leakage.
- Add half the cinnamon-sugar topping: Sprinkle half of the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the crescent dough base layer to infuse that iconic churro flavor.
- Spread the cheesecake filling: Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cinnamon-sugar topped dough layer, smoothing out the surface with a spatula for even baking.
- Top with second crescent dough layer: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it gently over the cream cheese layer. Press down lightly around the edges to seal and prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Add remaining cinnamon-sugar topping: Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top crescent dough layer for a sweet finish and delightful crunch.
- Bake until golden brown: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and the filling is set. Remove from oven and allow to cool before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth mixing; cold cream cheese will result in lumps.
- Press crescent roll dough seams tightly to avoid filling leakage during baking.
- Cool bars completely before cutting to maintain shape and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking (optional).
