Description
Churro Cheesecake is a delightful fusion dessert combining the flaky, buttery layers of crescent roll dough with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling, all sprinkled with cinnamon sugar reminiscent of traditional churros. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert is perfect for parties or casual gatherings, offering a rich, cinnamon-flavored treat with a smooth cheesecake center.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough and Topping
- 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus 1/4 cup for topping)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cream Cheese Filling
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish and Cinnamon Sugar Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, then sprinkle half of this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly at the bottom of the greased dish to create a flavorful base.
- Form Bottom Dough Layer: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and carefully press it into the bottom of the baking dish over the cinnamon sugar layer, making sure to press the seams together so the dough forms a solid, sealed crust.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fluffy. This ensures a rich and luscious cheesecake filling.
- Spread Cream Cheese Layer: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough layer in the pan, making sure it covers the entire surface and reaches the edges.
- Add Top Dough Layer: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and gently place it over the cream cheese filling, carefully sealing the seams to prevent leaking during baking.
- Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Brush the entire top dough layer evenly with the melted butter, then sprinkle the remaining mixture of 1/4 cup granulated sugar combined with 1 teaspoon cinnamon over the buttered surface, giving it that classic churro flavor and texture.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to set fully and enhance the flavors before slicing into 12 bars and serving.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans on top or drizzle caramel sauce over the bars right before serving.
- This dessert is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature to preserve the creamy cheesecake texture.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Press the dough seams firmly to prevent leakage of the cream cheese filling during baking.
