If you have a soft spot for all things sweet and creamy with a hint of cinnamon magic, you are going to adore this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Imagine the warm, flaky layers of crescent roll dough sandwiching a velvety cream cheese filling, all dusted with that classic churro blend of sugar and cinnamon. It’s the perfect treat that brings together the comforting flavors of a churro with the rich indulgence of cheesecake, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion or just a fabulous way to brighten your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the key to making these bars so effortlessly delightful. Each element plays a vital role — from the buttery crescent rolls that create the perfect crust to the cream cheese filling that adds luscious creaminess, topped off with a swoon-worthy cinnamon-sugar sprinkle.
- Crescent roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): This provides a flaky, buttery base and top layer that bakes into a golden crust with soft layers inside.
- Granulated sugar (1 3/4 cups total): Used in both layers and the topping for balanced sweetness and that signature churro crunch.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons total): Essential for the warm spice that makes these bars taste like the beloved churro treat.
- Cream cheese (2 packages, 8 oz each, softened): The star of the cheesecake filling, adding tangy creaminess and smooth texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor depth of the cream cheese layer with a mellow, sweet aroma.
- Large egg (1): Helps bind the cheesecake filling for that perfect set once baked.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Brushed on top to add richness and help the cinnamon-sugar topping stick and caramelize.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper is a small step that will ensure your bars lift out beautifully without sticking, making clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Create the Crescent Roll Base
Gently unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your pan. This crust is your comfort foundation. Next, mix half of your sugar and cinnamon to sprinkle over the dough, infusing that crunchy, cinnamon-sugary goodness right at the base.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth — this is the luscious heart of your bars. Add one cup of sugar, vanilla, and the egg, blending everything until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Then, carefully spread this filling over your cinnamon-dusted base for that smooth, dreamy layer.
Step 4: Add the Second Layer of Dough
Unroll your second can of crescent roll dough and gently lay it on top of the cheesecake filling. Don’t worry if the edges don’t line up perfectly; just press the seams lightly to seal in the filling. Brush the top lightly with melted butter — this will help the finish get that perfect golden crust.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Signature Topping
Now for the best part: sprinkle the remaining cinnamon and sugar mixture evenly across the top. This step takes the bars from delicious to utterly addictive, giving that crunchy, sugary coating that we all crave with churro-inspired treats.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your dish into the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll want to look for a gorgeous golden brown top and a cheesecake layer that’s just set — this signals the bars are perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Once out of the oven, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Chilling them in the refrigerator for at least two hours is crucial — it helps the cheesecake layer firm up beautifully, making slicing and serving a joyful experience.
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these bars are amazing on their own, a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of decadence. For a fresh twist, a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream adds lovely texture and richness.
Side Dishes
Pairing these bars with a bright fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances out their richness perfectly, adding a fresh or creamy complement that makes each bite even more enjoyable. A hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte also pairs beautifully to round out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, cut the bars into mini squares and serve on decorative platters with colorful toothpicks. Simply layering a bar with a scoop of ice cream and a cinnamon stick as a garnish creates an elegant dessert cup. Surprise friends and family by wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with rustic twine for takeaway gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and chilled, store any leftover churro cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days while maintaining their texture and flavor, making them an easy grab-and-go dessert treat.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these bars in advance, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their creamy, cinnamon-sugary allure.
Reheating
For a quick treat, thaw frozen bars overnight in the fridge. You can enjoy them chilled or warm them for about 10-15 seconds in the microwave to bring back that freshly baked warmth without sacrificing texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular pie crust instead of crescent roll dough?
While pie crust would work, crescent roll dough gives these bars their signature flaky layers and buttery flavor that makes this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe stand out. Pie crust might be denser and less tender in comparison.
Is it necessary to chill the bars before cutting?
Yes, chilling helps the cheesecake layer firm up, which makes slicing neater and the bars easier to handle. Warm bars can be too soft and might crumble or lose their shape.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan crescent roll dough if available, but keep in mind it may alter the texture and flavor somewhat. Look for brands with similar creamy and buttery characteristics.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is fully baked?
The cheesecake layer should appear set and only slightly jiggly in the center when you gently shake the pan. It firming up as it cools ensures the perfect consistency in your finished bars.
Can I add toppings like chocolate chips or fruit to this recipe?
Absolutely! Mixing mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling or adding thinly sliced fruit like strawberries on top before baking can add wonderful flavor twists to the classic Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is just something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, cinnamon-kissed dessert with creamy cheesecake layers that make your taste buds sing. This Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make yet incredibly indulgent. Whether for a family gathering, a festive celebration, or just because dessert deserves to be special, I hope you give these bars a try and fall in love with every cinnamon-sugary bite.
Print
Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Churro Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery crescent roll crust with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cheesecake filling, all topped with a crispy cinnamon-sugar crust. These bars offer the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust and Topping
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Prepare the Crescent Roll Crust: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this mixture evenly over the crescent roll dough.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add in 1 cup of sugar, the vanilla extract, and the egg. Beat until fully combined and smooth. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crescent roll layer in the baking dish.
- Top with the Second Layer of Dough: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the cheesecake layer. It’s okay if it doesn’t fit perfectly; just press the seams together as best as you can. Brush the top of the dough with the melted butter.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over the top of the dough.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up. Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
- Refrigerate the bars after baking to help them set and make cutting easier.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easier removal and cleaner edges.
- Store leftover bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- These bars pair well with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
