Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of warm cinnamon sugar and creamy cheesecake. These churro cheesecake cookies bring together the comforting flavors of a classic churro with the rich, tangy filling of cheesecake, creating a treat that is soft, chewy, and completely irresistible.
Each bite starts with a crisp cinnamon-sugar coating, giving way to a buttery cookie with a creamy surprise inside. Unlike traditional churros, these cookies are baked instead of fried, making them easier to prepare while still delivering that signature churro flavor. The mix of warm spices and smooth filling makes them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing them with family or simply indulging in a homemade sweet treat.
With simple ingredients and an easy baking method, these churro cheesecake cookies come together effortlessly. The result is a soft and chewy dessert that captures the essence of a freshly made churro with a delicious twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These churro cheesecake cookies are the perfect balance of soft, chewy, and creamy with a touch of cinnamon spice. The crisp sugar coating gives them that classic churro flavor, while the cheesecake filling adds a rich and tangy contrast. Every bite melts in your mouth, making them a dessert worth savoring.
Unlike traditional churros, this recipe requires no frying, making the process simple and mess-free. The dough comes together easily, and chilling it before baking helps create a soft texture while keeping the cheesecake center intact. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying something new, these cookies are easy to make with basic pantry ingredients.
Their warm and comforting flavors make them a great treat for any occasion. Whether served fresh from the oven with a cup of coffee or packed up for a holiday gathering, these cookies bring a little extra sweetness to any moment.
What You’ll Need
Essential Kitchen Tools
Having the right tools makes baking these churro cheesecake cookies easy and stress-free. A few basic kitchen essentials will help you get the perfect texture and flavor.
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients smoothly
- A hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar properly
- A parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking
- A cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies
- A cooling rack to allow the cookies to set after baking
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | Softened, for the cheesecake filling |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | Sweetens both the dough and the cinnamon-sugar coating |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup | Adds a caramel-like richness |
| Butter | ½ cup | Softened, for a chewy texture |
| Egg | 1 large | Helps bind the dough together |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances the warm flavors |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | The base for the cookie dough |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Adds lightness to the cookies |
| Cinnamon | 2 tsp | Gives the cookies their signature churro flavor |
With these simple ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that tastes just as indulgent as a classic churro, but with a creamy cheesecake surprise inside.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Bake Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 57 minutes
Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with a small amount of sugar. Stir until smooth and creamy. Using a spoon, drop small dollops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer and let the filling firm up for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent the cheesecake center from melting too quickly while baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and airy. Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated. Gradually incorporate the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes before assembling the cookies.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and flatten each piece slightly with your hands. Place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center of each round. Carefully fold the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Roll the dough into a smooth ball, then coat it in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for that classic churro taste.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each for slight spreading. Bake for about 12 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden. Take the cookies out of the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a cooling rack to set. If you want to cool your cookies evenly and maintain their perfect texture, check out this tip from Allrecipes.
Let the cookies cool completely before serving to ensure the cheesecake center sets properly. Enjoy them warm or chilled for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips & Hacks for the Best Churro Cheesecake Cookies
Keep the Cheesecake Filling Firm
Freezing the cheesecake dollops for at least 30 minutes before assembling the cookies helps keep the filling intact while baking. This prevents it from melting too quickly and ensures a creamy center.
Roll the Cookies Evenly
Using a cookie scoop helps create uniform-sized cookies, ensuring even baking. When sealing the dough around the cheesecake filling, make sure there are no gaps to prevent leaks.
Let the Cookies Cool Before Serving
For the best texture, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack. This helps them set properly without becoming too firm.
Nutritional Score
These churro cheesecake cookies are an indulgent treat with a balance of sweetness and creaminess. Here is the approximate nutritional value for each cookie:
| Nutrient | Per Cookie |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbs | 24g |
| Fat | 9g |
The exact values may vary based on portion size and ingredient substitutions. For a slightly lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or swap part of the sugar for a natural alternative.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
These churro cheesecake cookies taste best when served slightly warm or chilled, allowing the creamy filling to shine. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for the perfect pairing. They also make a great addition to dessert platters for holidays and gatherings.
How to Store
To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Since they contain a cheesecake filling, refrigeration helps maintain their texture and prevents spoilage.
Freezing for Later
If you’d like to prepare these cookies in advance, freeze the unbaked dough balls with the cheesecake filling inside. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Variations
Chocolate Drizzle for Extra Indulgence
For a rich and decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the baked cookies. Dark, milk, or white chocolate all pair beautifully with the warm cinnamon flavors. If you love the combination of cinnamon and chocolate, try using Mexican chocolate for an extra depth of flavor. For another dessert that layers warm spices with creamy cheesecake, take a look at Apple Crumble Cheesecake, a delicious blend of spiced apple filling and a rich cheesecake base.
Simply melt your preferred chocolate and use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle it over the cooled cookies. Let the chocolate set before serving for a glossy and delicious finish.
Spiced Churro Cookies with a Flavor Boost
Enhance the churro-inspired taste by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of warmth. Nutmeg brings a slightly sweet, nutty depth, while cayenne adds a subtle heat that complements the cinnamon sugar coating. For an even bolder flavor, try mixing a bit of cardamom or allspice into the dough. These small additions create a more complex spice profile while keeping the cookies true to their churro essence.
Dulce de Leche Filling for a Caramel Twist
Swap the cream cheese filling for dulce de leche to create a gooey, caramel-filled center. This variation adds a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the churro flavors. To make it even more indulgent, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies after baking for a sweet and salty contrast. If you prefer a thicker caramel, you can use homemade or store-bought cajeta (Mexican caramel sauce) for an authentic touch.
Print
Churro Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 57 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft and chewy churro cheesecake cookies combine warm cinnamon sugar with a creamy cheesecake center. Baked to perfection, they offer all the indulgent flavors of a churro with a rich, tangy twist.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cookie Dough:
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp cinnamon
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Drop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and cinnamon, stirring until a soft dough forms. Refrigerate for 10 minutes if sticky.
- Assemble the Cookies: Scoop dough into balls, flatten slightly, and place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and roll into a smooth ball.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball in the mixture to coat evenly.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 12 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let cookies cool completely before serving for the best cheesecake texture. Enjoy warm or chilled!
Notes
- For best results, freeze cheesecake filling for at least 30 minutes before assembling cookies.
- Customize flavors by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of melted chocolate after baking.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls and bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Cookie
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: churro cheesecake cookies, cinnamon sugar cookies, stuffed cookies, cheesecake-filled cookies, baked churros
FAQs About Churro Cheesecake Cookies
Do cream cheese cookies need to be refrigerated after baking?
Yes, churro cheesecake cookies should be stored in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese filling. This helps maintain their texture and freshness while preventing spoilage. If you prefer them slightly warm, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
How long do cheesecake cookies last?
These cookies last up to five days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they will stay fresh for up to two months. When ready to eat, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up for a freshly baked taste.
Where did churro cheesecake originate?
Churro cheesecake is a Mexican-inspired dessert that blends the warm, cinnamon-sugar flavors of traditional churros with the creamy richness of cheesecake. While classic churros are deep-fried, churro cheesecake cookies offer a baked variation with a soft, chewy texture and a luscious filling.
How many calories are in a cheesecake cookie?
Each churro cheesecake cookie contains approximately 180 calories, but the final amount may vary based on ingredients, portion size, and additional toppings like chocolate drizzle or dulce de leche.
Conclusion
Churro cheesecake cookies bring together the best of two beloved desserts in one irresistible treat. With their warm cinnamon-sugar coating, soft and chewy texture, and creamy cheesecake center, they offer a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, chilled from the fridge, or with a drizzle of chocolate, these cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table. They’re easy to make, require simple ingredients, and can be customized with fun variations like spiced dough or dulce de leche filling.
Now it’s time to give this recipe a try! Let us know how your cookies turn out and what creative twists you add. Happy baking!