If you have a sweet tooth that craves both the warm cinnamon-sugar goodness of churros and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then this Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is going to be your new favorite treat. These cookies capture the best of both desserts in one delightful bite, balancing tender cookie dough with a luscious cheesecake center, finished off with a perfect cinnamon sugar coat and a drizzle of caramel that’s pure magic. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to bake them again and again to share with friends and family or simply indulge in a cozy moment by yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a dessert that feels both familiar and exciting. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich cream cheese that ensures a silky filling, to the cinnamon sugar that creates that signature churro flavor and texture. These simple yet essential ingredients come together to make magic happen in your oven.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This adds moisture and richness to the cookie dough, helping it stay tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a light, fluffy texture in the cookie dough.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the dough ingredients together while adding structure and moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm, sweet notes.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base of every cookie, providing the right amount of chew and structure.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the cookies a gentle rise for a soft, tender finish.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling, adding creamy tanginess.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cream cheese without overpowering it.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Adds delicate richness to the cheesecake center.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating): Combined with cinnamon to recreate that classic churro crunch.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: The essential spice that gives churros their iconic flavor.
- 1 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling): Adds a heavenly sticky sweetness that ties the whole cookie together.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by creaming the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this step is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse your dough with warmth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute those dry ingredients. Gradually mix them into the wet ingredients until just combined; overmixing can make the cookies tough, so gentle folding is the way to go.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling will add that signature tangy bite we all love in cheesecake. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag to make filling the dough easy and neat in the following steps.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect baking. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then press each ball into a flat circle. Pipe a ring of cheesecake filling around the perimeter of each dough circle, then fold the dough over to encase the filling, sealing the edges tightly to keep that creamy center inside. Use a small cookie cutter to cut out the center, shaping the cookie into a delightful donut-style form that lets the filling peek through.
Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
In a shallow dish, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until thoroughly blended. Roll each cookie gently but generously in this cinnamon sugar mixture to give that iconic churro coating, which will crisp up beautifully during baking and add irresistible texture and flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated cookies on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each for even baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, just until the edges turn a lovely light golden color. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filling your kitchen will let you know these treats are almost ready!
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch
Once cool enough to handle, drizzle each cookie generously with luscious caramel sauce. This sticky sweetness isn’t just a topping—it completes the churro cheesecake experience by adding an additional layer of delightful flavor and the perfect gooey contrast to the crunchy cinnamon sugar.
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe presentation, consider sprinkling a bit of powdered sugar or extra cinnamon sugar on top for a festive touch. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side can add a fresh contrast that’s just brilliant with these rich cookies. For a dazzling finish, a few small mint leaves add color and a gentle hint of freshness.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, balancing the sweet richness with warm spices. A side of vanilla ice cream or perhaps a small bowl of fresh fruit salad can bring a lovely contrast, making these cookies perfect for an after-dinner treat or special celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the cookies on a rustic wooden board with little bowls of caramel sauce and extra cinnamon sugar for dipping. Alternatively, stack them like little towers tied with festive ribbon, perfect for gifting or party platters. For a fun twist, serve them alongside mini churros and cheesecake bites to turn your dessert table into a churro cheesecake wonderland.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s best to layer them carefully with parchment paper in between to avoid sticking and preserve their delicate cinnamon sugar coating.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies at a later date, they freeze quite well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They should last up to 2 months frozen and still taste fantastic once thawed.
Reheating
To bring your frozen or chilled cookies back to life, warm them gently in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This refreshes the crisp cinnamon sugar exterior and softens the cheesecake center just perfectly, like they were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind it might affect the richness and texture of the filling slightly. For the best creamy consistency, full-fat cream cheese is preferred.
Is there an alternative to caramel sauce for drizzling?
Absolutely! You can try melted chocolate, dulce de leche, or even a simple vanilla glaze to complement the cookies if caramel isn’t your favorite.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking, you can enjoy these cookies gluten-free. Just be sure to check your baking powder and other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, these churro cheesecake cookies stay fresh for about 3 days. Beyond that, they’re best kept in the fridge or freezer to maintain quality.
Can I double this Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales beautifully. Just make sure you have enough baking sheets and keep an eye on baking time, which might need slight adjustments depending on oven capacity.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe because it’s truly a masterpiece that combines comfort and celebration in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself to a special indulgence, these cookies will bring smiles and maybe even a few happy dances around the kitchen. So go ahead, give them a whirl, and watch how quickly they disappear!
Print
Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Churro Cheesecake Cookies combine the warm, cinnamon-sugar flavors of classic churros with a creamy cheesecake filling, all wrapped in a soft, buttery cookie dough. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a decadent dessert with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Coating and Topping
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined, forming the cookie dough.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer this mixture to a piping bag for easy filling.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten each into a circle. Pipe a small amount of cheesecake filling around the edges of each circle, then fold the dough over the filling to seal it inside. Use a small cookie cutter to cut out the center, creating a donut-shaped cookie with the cheesecake filling enclosed.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow dish, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each prepared cookie in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated for that signature churro flavor.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies turn lightly golden around the edges.
- Finish and Serve: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool slightly. Drizzle them with caramel sauce before serving to add a luscious finish that complements the churro and cheesecake flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened for easier mixing and better texture.
- Seal the dough edges well to prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking during baking.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- For a fun variation, try using different fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
