Cinnamon Sugar Cheesecake Delight

This churro cheesecake combines the warm cinnamon-sugar coating of a classic churro with the velvety richness of cheesecake, creating an irresistible dessert that never fails to impress at family gatherings. The contrasting textures of crispy, buttery crescent dough and creamy cheesecake filling make each bite a perfect balance of flavors.

I first made this cheesecake for my daughter's quinceañera celebration, and it disappeared faster than any other dessert on the table. Now it has become our go-to recipe whenever we host family gatherings or need a crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

• Two 8-ounce packages refrigerated crescent roll dough These create the churro-like layers that encase the cheesecake filling. Look for the sheet version if available as they require less seam-sealing.
• 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese The foundation of our cheesecake layer. Always use full-fat for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Make sure it's properly softened to avoid lumps.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar Provides just the right sweetness to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese. Use fine granulated sugar for smoother incorporation.
• 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent and gives structure to the cheesecake filling. Room temperature eggs blend more easily with the cream cheese.
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract Adds depth and warmth to the filling. Pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor profile.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Creates that golden, crispy exterior on the top layer. Unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon The signature flavor of churros. Fresh cinnamon has the most aromatic quality.
• ½ cup granulated sugar For the cinnamon-sugar mixture that gives this dessert its churro identity. Reserve some for sprinkling on top before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

Combine the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl until thoroughly mixed. The mixture should have a uniform brown color throughout with no streaks. This simple step creates the signature churro flavor that will coat both the top and bottom of our cheesecake.

Preheat and Prepare Pan

Set your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the middle for even baking. Generously grease your 9×13-inch pan, ensuring all corners are covered. Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of your cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the bottom. This creates a delicious crispy bottom layer that mimics the exterior of a churro.

Create Base Layer

Open your first tube of crescent roll dough carefully. Unroll it onto a lightly floured surface and gently press all the perforated seams together to create one continuous rectangle. Transfer this to your prepared pan, pressing it into the corners and ensuring it completely covers the bottom. The dough should be thin but without any holes or tears.

Make Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth about 2 minutes. Add sugar and continue beating until well incorporated. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is silky smooth with no lumps. Pour this luxurious mixture over your base layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.

Top Layer and Butter Coating

Open and prepare the second tube of crescent dough just as you did with the first, creating a single rectangular sheet. Carefully place this over the cheesecake filling. This can be tricky so consider folding it gently in half to position it correctly then unfolding it over the filling. Pour the melted butter evenly over the top layer, ensuring complete coverage. The butter will create a golden, crispy exterior reminiscent of a fried churro.

Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Generously sprinkle your remaining cinnamon sugar over the buttered top layer. Be sure to cover the entire surface for that authentic churro experience in every bite. The sugar will caramelize slightly during baking, creating a wonderfully crisp texture.

Bake to Perfection

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 26-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and slightly puffed. The cheesecake layer should be set but might have a slight jiggle in the center. Avoid overbaking which can dry out the dough layers.

Chill and Serve

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 3 hours. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld together. When ready to serve, use a sharp knife to cut into bars, cleaning the knife between cuts for the cleanest presentation.

The cinnamon-sugar mixture is truly the star of this recipe. I've found that using freshly ground cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in flavor. My grandmother taught me to always rub a little between my fingers and take a sniff before using it if it doesn't immediately make you think of warm holiday memories, it's time for a fresh jar.

Storage Solutions

These churro cheesecake bars keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making this an ideal make-ahead dessert. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They'll maintain their quality for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer to the refrigerator overnight.

Creative Variations

While this classic version is perfect on its own, you can easily customize it to create exciting flavor variations. Try adding a layer of dulce de leche between the bottom crust and cheesecake filling for a caramel churro cheesecake. For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted chocolate over the top after baking or mix mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling. During fall, adding a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to your cinnamon sugar mixture creates a seasonal favorite.

Serving Suggestions

These churro cheesecake bars shine when served with complementary toppings. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce enhances the churro flavor profile perfectly. Fresh berries add a bright, tangy contrast to the rich cheesecake. For extra indulgence, offer a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side. When serving for a special occasion, dust with a little extra cinnamon sugar just before presenting for that fresh-from-the-bakery look.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated crescent rolls?

Yes, you can substitute with homemade pastry dough. Aim for a buttery, slightly sweet dough rolled to similar thickness as crescent rolls. You'll need enough for two 9×13-inch layers. Just ensure it's rolled thin enough to bake through properly.

→ How do I know when the cheesecake bars are fully baked?

Look for a puffed, golden brown top layer. The edges should be slightly darker than the center. The filling should appear set but might have a slight jiggle in the center - it will firm up completely during refrigeration.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time for an event?

Absolutely! These bars actually benefit from being made ahead. Prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully with time, and they maintain their texture perfectly.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

For a similar texture and tang, mascarpone cheese makes an excellent substitute. Greek yogurt cream cheese or Neufchâtel can work for a lighter version, though the texture may be slightly different. Dairy-free cream cheese alternatives can also work for those with dietary restrictions.

→ How can I enhance the cinnamon flavor?

To intensify the cinnamon notes, add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the cheesecake filling itself. You could also incorporate a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for more complex flavor. For extra indulgence, drizzle with cinnamon-infused honey before serving.

→ Can I freeze leftover cheesecake bars?

Yes, these freeze beautifully! Cut into individual portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The texture remains nearly identical to fresh after proper thawing.