Churro Cheesecake Bars: Easy Cinnamon-Sugar Dessert with Creamy Layers
🧁 Introduction: Where Cinnamon Dreams Meet Creamy Indulgence 🎉🍮
A Global Fusion of Flavorful Origins 🌍
The origins of this sweet hybrid dessert are as rich as its flavor. Churros, the iconic fried‑dough snack, date back to Spain and Portugal, where they’re traditionally served with thick hot chocolate or dusted in sugar. Meanwhile, cheesecake has been enjoyed since ancient Greece and gained modern popularity in the United States, where it’s become a mainstay in bakeries and family gatherings alike.
Churro Cheesecake Bars are a genius mash‑up that combines the flaky cinnamon‑sugar coating of churros with the silky decadence of cheesecake—delivered in convenient, crowd‑pleasing bars. Wrapped in buttery crescent‑roll dough and baked to golden perfection, they’re ideal for brunch spreads, dessert tables, or any time you want to wow your taste buds with minimal effort.
If you enjoy layered dessert bars, check out my Icebox Cake Magic: 7 Irresistible Layers That Will Melt Your Heart for another cool and creamy inspiration.
Who’s Loving This Dessert Combo the Most? ❤️🌎
This unique dessert isn’t just a hit in Hispanic‑American kitchens—it’s adored worldwide. Here are the top 10 populations most in love with this cinnamon‑sugar creation:
🇺🇸 United States
🇲🇽 Mexico
🇪🇸 Spain
🇨🇦 Canada
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇦🇺 Australia
🇧🇷 Brazil
🇦🇷 Argentina
🇵🇭 Philippines
🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
Their global appeal comes from their layered texture, balanced sweetness, and the comforting nostalgia of two classic desserts united in one bite.
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11 Insanely Addictive Churro Cheesecake Bars You Must Bake Now
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Churro Cheesecake Bars are layered with flaky dough, creamy cheesecake, and a cinnamon-sugar topping—easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment.
- Roll out one can of crescent dough and press into the bottom of the pan.
- Mix softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the dough evenly.
- Layer second crescent dough sheet on top of the filling.
- Pour melted butter over the top layer. Mix remaining sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle generously.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool completely before slicing into bars.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
What You’ll Need 🛠️🧁
Essential Kitchen Equipment 🧂
Before diving into your Churro Cheesecake Bars, make sure you have these basic tools on hand. This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets—just a few staples that most home bakers already own:
- 9×13-inch baking dish – The perfect size for thick, evenly baked bars.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – Helps achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Mixing bowls – Use at least two: one for the filling, one for the topping.
- Spatula – Ideal for spreading the filling evenly and scraping every last bit.
💡 Tip: Grease your baking dish well or line it with parchment paper for easy bar removal and clean cuts.
Pantry Staples & Fridge Favorites 🧁🧊
These accessible ingredients create magic with minimal prep. The blend of cinnamon sugar, buttery crescent dough, and cream cheese delivers the signature flavor of churros and the creaminess of cheesecake in every bite.
- Crescent roll dough – Two cans of buttery, ready-to-use dough form the top and bottom crust.
- Cream cheese – Full-fat, softened cream cheese brings creamy structure and tang.
- Granulated sugar – Used in both the filling and cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Egg – Helps the cheesecake layer set perfectly while baking.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and flavor depth.
- Cinnamon – The star of the topping blend, bringing spice and that signature churro flavor.
📌 Pro Tip: Allow the cream cheese and dough to come to room temperature before assembling—this makes mixing and handling a breeze.
👉 Want another cinnamon-sugar hit? Be sure to check out our Biscoff Tiramisu—a soft, chewy take on the classic cookie bar.
Ingredients 🧾🍥
For the Base & Cinnamon-Sugar Topping ✨
The golden crust and signature churro crunch come from a buttery crescent roll dough paired with a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend. This outer layer sandwiches the creamy cheesecake filling and delivers that crisp, spiced finish.
- 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough – Acts as the buttery crust and topping.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Mixed with cinnamon for the classic churro dusting.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – Adds deep spice and signature flavor.
🧠 Smart Tip: Mix the sugar and cinnamon thoroughly to avoid clumps and ensure even distribution across the top layer.
For the Cheesecake Layer 🧀
This middle layer is where the richness lies. Smooth, slightly tangy, and just sweet enough—it balances perfectly with the cinnamon sugar above and below.
- 2 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened – Full-fat is best for a creamy, stable texture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
- 1 egg – Helps the filling set as it bakes.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a warm, fragrant undertone.
📌 Prep Reminder: Let your cream cheese soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to prevent lumps and ensure a silky filling.
🎯 Want to elevate your brunch spread? Pair these bars with a warm slice of our Caramelized Honey French Toast for a cinnamon-forward morning feast.
Instructions 🥄🔥
Step-by-Step Baking Directions 📋
This recipe is all about simple layering and bold flavor. With just one pan and under 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a cinnamon‑sugar showstopper ready for any occasion.
1. Prep the Pan & Base Layer 🧈
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F.
- Lightly grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make lifting the bars out a breeze.
- Open the first can of crescent roll dough and gently unroll it into the bottom of the pan.
- Carefully press and seal the seams to create one smooth, uniform layer.
- Pro tip: Use your fingers or the back of a small spoon to press the dough into every corner and edge so there are no air bubbles or folds.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling 🧁
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ¾ cup sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix again until fully incorporated.
- Scrape the bowl sides so no bits remain. The mixture should be silky and spreadable.
- Important: Don’t overmix — too much air in the filling can lead to cracks when baking (cheesecakes are temperamental!).
3. Assemble Layers & Add Topping 🧱
- Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the bottom crescent dough layer using a rubber spatula — take care to smooth it out without disturbing the base.
- Open the second can of crescent roll dough and unroll it gently over the filling. Pinch the seams shut so the top layer forms a continuous crust.
- In a small bowl, combine ½ cup sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (or 2 Tbsp if you like a stronger cinnamon punch).
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously and evenly over the top dough. Pat lightly so some sugar mixture sticks into the dough surface.
4. Bake & Monitor 🕒
- Place the pan in the center rack of your preheated oven.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed (you’ll see the edges turning golden and the center set but still a little jiggly).
- If the edges brown too quickly, tent the pan loosely with foil for the last 5–7 minutes.
5. Cool, Chill & Slice ❄️🔪
- Remove from oven and let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour so the layers settle.
- Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, for clean slices and optimal texture.
- When slicing, use a sharp chef’s knife and wipe the blade between cuts to keep edges crisp and clean.
- Optionally, serve chilled or warmed briefly in the oven or microwave. Top with caramel drizzle, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries for extra flair.
✨ Want another low-effort, crowd-pleasing dessert? Don’t miss our Eclair Cake
🍽️🧊 Serving & Storage
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Bars for Maximum Wow 🎉
Churro cheesecake bars are best served chilled so the creamy filling can firm up and the cinnamon-sugar crust develops its signature bite. But that doesn’t mean they can’t turn heads on the dessert table. Here are my favorite ways to serve churro cheesecake bars and make every bite even more memorable:
- Serve cold for a clean-cut, cheesecake-forward texture that holds up beautifully.
- Microwave for 10–15 seconds if you prefer a soft, warm center—almost like a baked cinnamon roll cheesecake hybrid.
- Drizzle with caramel, dulce de leche, or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent twist.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for brightness and visual contrast.
- Pair with coffee, Mexican hot chocolate, or cinnamon tea for a cozy dessert moment.
🍮 Hosting Tip: Slice churro cheesecake bars into smaller, bite-size squares and arrange them on a serving platter. They make ideal finger-food desserts for brunches, holiday spreads, or dessert bars.
Storage Tips to Keep Churro Cheesecake Bars Fresh 🧊
One of the best things about churro cheesecake bars is how well they store. Whether you make them the night before or freeze them for later, they’re one of the most low-maintenance, high-reward desserts out there.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They’re at peak texture and flavor in the first 48 hours.
- Freeze for up to 2 months: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
- When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Let them sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving for best results.
- Store in a single layer, or place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking or smushing.
🧁 Texture Tip: Always chill the bars before slicing to get sharp, clean edges. It helps keep the layers neat and picture-perfect—just the way churro cheesecake bars should look.
Looking for more brunch-perfect bakes? Don’t miss my Blueberry Ricotta Breakfast Cake — moist, fruity, and just sweet enough to satisfy any crowd.
🍫🔀 Variations
Flavor Additions for a Fun Twist 🎨
Churro cheesecake bars are already a showstopper, but a few simple tweaks can take this dessert from classic to completely custom. If you’re looking to add your own signature flair, these ideas will help you remix your churro cheesecake bars into something brand new—without losing that irresistible cinnamon-sugar charm.
- Mix chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for melty bursts of chocolate.
- Swirl in dulce de leche, caramel sauce, or Nutella for rich, gooey ribbons of flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar topping for a sweet-heat combination inspired by Mexican hot chocolate.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the top before baking for added texture and crunch.
- 🍫 Sweet & Salty Tip: A light dusting of flaky sea salt on top before baking creates a flavor contrast that makes every bite pop.
These additions give your churro cheesecake bars a gourmet feel, making them even more memorable for guests—or just yourself!
Creative Dough Alternatives 🥐
While crescent dough is a convenient favorite, it’s not the only way to craft delicious churro cheesecake bars. You can easily experiment with other crusts to match your dietary preferences or creative cravings:
- Swap in puff pastry for a flakier, more luxurious crust.
- Use a graham cracker or shortbread crust for a crunchy base and no dough at all.
- Make mini churro cheesecake bars in muffin tins for perfect party portions.
- Opt for gluten-free crescent dough if you need a celiac-safe version—no flavor sacrificed.
🌿 Vegan Tip: Use plant-based cream cheese and crescent dough, and skip the egg entirely to create a fully vegan version of churro cheesecake bars. It’s still luscious, still sweet, and totally satisfying.
Want more creative dessert mashups? Try my Cannoli-Inspired Overnight Oats—a fun, indulgent breakfast that tastes like dessert!
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions
What are Churro Cheesecake Bars made of?
These bars are made with layers of crescent roll dough, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a generous cinnamon-sugar topping. The combination mimics the crisp, sweet flavor of a churro while delivering the rich texture of a classic cheesecake. They’re easy to bake, slice, and serve—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?
Yes! If you’re avoiding processed dough or want a more from-scratch feel, homemade dough works beautifully. Just make sure it’s:
Rolled thin enough to bake through evenly
Buttery enough to create flakiness similar to crescent dough
Not too sweet—since the cinnamon sugar will add plenty of flavor
How long do churro cheesecake bars last?
Properly stored, these bars will keep:
Up to 5 days in the fridge in an airtight container
Up to 2 months in the freezer (wrap individually in plastic and store in a sealed bag or container)
For best texture, enjoy within the first 48 hours. Thaw frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator and serve chilled or gently warmed.
Do I have to use eggs in the filling?
Not necessarily. The egg helps the cheesecake set and gives it a firmer texture. However, if you’re avoiding eggs:
You can omit the egg and expect a denser, softer center
Consider using cornstarch (1 tbsp) or Greek yogurt (¼ cup) as a binding substitute
Egg-Free Tip: Let it chill overnight for best structure if skipping the egg.
What Makes Churro Cheesecake Bars Different From Classic Cheesecake?
While traditional cheesecake is often made with a graham cracker crust and baked in a springform pan, churro cheesecake bars flip the script with a flaky crescent dough crust and a cinnamon-sugar topping. They’re baked in a rectangular dish and sliced into squares, making them perfect for sharing at parties or potlucks.
Unlike standard cheesecakes, these bars deliver:
A cinnamon roll cheesecake vibe, thanks to the buttery cinnamon coating
No-fuss prep—no water bath or complex steps required
A handheld format with nostalgic flavor in every bite
This fusion dessert is ideal for those who want the creamy richness of cheesecake without all the hassle.
Is Churro Cheesecake a Mexican Dessert?
Not exactly. While inspired by Mexican churros and often included in Mexican-American dessert recipes, churro cheesecake bars are more of a Mexican-American fusion than a traditional Mexican dish.
Churros themselves originated in Spain and became deeply embedded in Latin American street food culture—especially in Mexico. Cheesecake, on the other hand, has roots in ancient Greece but gained its creamy identity in America.
So while the flavors reflect Latin influences, this dessert is a creative hybrid born from culinary innovation in American kitchens.
What’s a Churro, Anyway?
A churro is a deep-fried pastry made from choux or flour-based dough, piped into long ridged strips and fried until crispy. After frying, they’re usually coated in cinnamon sugar and served with chocolate sauce or dulce de leche.
In this recipe, I take the essence of a churro—cinnamon, sugar, golden brown crust—and bake it into a cheesecake bar format, eliminating the mess and oil of frying while keeping the irresistible flavor.
Why Is It Called “Churro”?
The name “churro” is believed to come from the Churra sheep, a breed raised by Spanish shepherds. The pastry’s ridged shape was thought to resemble the sheep’s horns. The shepherds created churros as a simple bread alternative they could make while out in the mountains, using just basic ingredients and an open fire.
This rustic origin eventually evolved into the sweet treat we know today, beloved around the world—from Madrid to Mexico City to Miami.
🎯 Conclusion 🥳
Churro Cheesecake Bars: Where Sweet Meets Simple 💫
There’s something magical about desserts that don’t require perfection to be perfect—and that’s exactly why I love making churro cheesecake bars. These bars blend the nostalgic charm of cinnamon-coated churros with the creamy luxury of cheesecake, baked into an easy, crowd-friendly square that never disappoints.
Whether you’re preparing a last-minute dessert for brunch, building a holiday dessert tray, or just indulging in a midweek craving, churro cheesecake bars check every box:
- Ease of preparation
- Simple, affordable ingredients
- Familiar yet exciting flavors
- A no-fail format that’s easy to slice, serve, and store
Each bite starts with a buttery crescent roll crust, layered with a velvety cheesecake filling, and finished with a crisp cinnamon-sugar topping that bakes into golden, crackly perfection. These churro cheesecake bars deliver bakery-style results—without bakery stress.
Why These Churro Cheesecake Bars Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Box 📦
Unlike traditional cheesecake recipes that need water baths and chilling overnight, churro cheesecake bars are wonderfully unfussy. They’re baked in a simple dish, cooled, and ready to impress with little effort. Perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who needs a fast, foolproof dessert.
Here are just a few ways to customize them:
- Add dulce de leche, Nutella, or caramel for a decadent twist
- Infuse the filling with almond, orange, or pumpkin spice
- Make mini churro cheesecake bites using muffin tins for parties
As a Mexican-American fusion treat, churro cheesecake bars are rooted in tradition but feel fresh and modern—equal parts comfort food and conversation starter. If you’ve never baked them before, trust me: this is the dessert you didn’t know you were missing.
Craving more irresistible dessert bars? Try my Lemon Dump Cake — another no-fuss favorite that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.