Churro Cheesecake Bars: Perfect Dessert Fusion
Craving something irresistibly sweet, creamy, and full of cinnamon-sugar goodness? These Churro Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert that combines the classic flavors of churros with the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake — all baked into an easy-to-make, shareable bar. Perfect for parties, potlucks, holidays, or a simple family treat, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet bakery-quality.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 35-40 minutes |
| Total Time: | 50-55 minutes |
| Servings: | 12-16 bars |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Cuisine: | Dessert / Fusion |
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make these heavenly churro cheesecake bars:
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Crust:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mix
In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Layer
Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the baking pan. Brush with half the melted butter and sprinkle with half of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the dough.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Unroll the second can of crescent dough and lay it gently over the cheesecake layer. Brush with the remaining butter and sprinkle with the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp. Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
Nutrition Facts (Per Bar)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Total Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 22 g |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
Health Benefits of Churro Cheesecake Bars
While these are an indulgent treat, they still come with some surprising benefits:
- Calcium-Rich: Thanks to cream cheese, these bars provide calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Mood-Boosting: The sweet cinnamon aroma and creamy texture can enhance mood and satisfy sugar cravings.
- Portion-Friendly: Cutting them into bars helps with portion control compared to larger desserts.
- Customizable: Add berries, nuts, or a drizzle of caramel for added nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Add a caramel or chocolate drizzle for a bakery-style finish.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a classic churro look.
- Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience.
FAQs
Can I make churro cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars store well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
Absolutely. Homemade dough or puff pastry can work, but the texture may vary slightly. Crescent roll dough gives the best classic flavor and flakiness.
How do I prevent soggy bars?
Make sure the bars cool completely before cutting and avoid overbaking. Using parchment paper helps with even baking and easy removal.
Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap individual bars tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Final Thoughts
Churro Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert mashup — combining the crispy cinnamon-sugar goodness of churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake. They’re simple to make, crowd-pleasing, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering, bake sale, or casual weekend treat, these bars are guaranteed to disappear fast.
This is more than just a dessert — it’s a warm, sweet, nostalgic bite of comfort that brings everyone together.
