Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Churro Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect blend of two beloved desserts: the warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated goodness of churros and the creamy decadence of cheesecake. These cookies are a bite-sized indulgence that delivers the best of both worlds, offering a crispy and slightly chewy outer layer with a smooth, tangy cheesecake filling inside. Perfect for dessert tables, parties, or an everyday sweet treat, churro cheesecake cookies are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Not only are they absolutely delicious, but they also combine familiar, comforting flavors into a single dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Unique Twist on Churros: Instead of deep-fried dough, these cookies are baked for a less greasy and more accessible version of the classic churro.
• Creamy Cheesecake Filling: The luscious cheesecake center contrasts beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for birthdays, holidays, or even casual get-togethers, making them versatile for any dessert menu.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet impressive.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Both kids and adults adore these cookies, and the process of rolling them in cinnamon sugar is a fun activity to do together.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Yield: 20 cookies
Serving Size: 1 cookie

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Cookie Dough:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with one corner snipped off. Pipe small dollops (about 1 teaspoon each) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making about 20 dollops. Place the tray in the freezer and chill for at least 30 minutes or until the dollops are firm.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Take a small amount of cookie dough (about 1 ½ tablespoons) and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a frozen cheesecake filling dollop in the center, then carefully fold the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Roll the dough into a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 4: Coat the Cookies in Cinnamon-Sugar

In a shallow dish, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each cookie ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Place the coated cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are just set and the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for the ultimate churro-inspired experience or at room temperature.

Ingredient Background

Cream Cheese

The cream cheese is essential for creating the tangy, creamy cheesecake filling. Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon provides the warm, spicy flavor that’s characteristic of churros. Its bold aroma and taste perfectly complement the sweetness of the cookie dough.

Butter

Butter forms the base of the cookie dough, adding richness and moisture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the recipe.

Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar

Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps with the crisp outer texture of the cookies, while brown sugar adds depth and a slight chewiness.

Flour

All-purpose flour is ideal for this recipe, giving the cookies structure without making them too dense.

Technique Tips

• Freeze the Cheesecake Filling: Ensuring the filling is firm before assembling prevents it from leaking out during baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the cookie dough can result in tough cookies, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Chill the Dough if Needed: If the cookie dough becomes too soft while assembling, pop it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
• Even Coating: Roll the cookies thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for an authentic churro flavor in every bite.
• Watch the Baking Time: Slightly underbaking the cookies ensures a soft and tender texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Churro Cheesecake Cookie Bars: Press the cookie dough into a baking dish, add a layer of cheesecake filling, then top with more dough and bake as bars.
• Mini Cookies: Make smaller cookie dough balls for bite-sized treats, perfect for parties or dessert platters.
• Cookie Sandwiches: Flatten the cookies slightly before baking and sandwich two together with additional cheesecake filling.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature butter and cream cheese for smoother mixing and consistent results.
2. Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
3. Reheating: Warm the cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds to revive their churro-like texture.
4. Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheets halfway through to ensure the cookies bake evenly.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Churro Cookies: Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough or drizzle melted chocolate over the baked cookies.
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling: Mix canned pumpkin puree with the cream cheese filling for a fall-inspired twist.
• Salted Caramel Churro Cookies: Add a pinch of sea salt to the cinnamon-sugar coating and drizzle the cookies with caramel sauce.
• Spicy Churro Cookies: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cinnamon-sugar coating for a subtle kick.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing Instructions

• Unbaked Cookies: Assemble the cookies as directed, but instead of baking, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Storage Tips

Store churro cheesecake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. For best results, let refrigerated cookies come to room temperature before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in the cookie dough and coating to lower the sugar content.
• Baked Cheesecake Bites: Instead of using cookie dough, coat cheesecake pieces in cinnamon-sugar and bake for a lower-fat alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dessert Table Star: Serve these cookies alongside mini cupcakes, brownies, and fruit for a stunning dessert spread.
• Holiday Treats: Add a festive touch by incorporating red and green sprinkles into the cinnamon-sugar coating for Christmas.
• Fiesta-Themed Parties: Pair churro cheesecake cookies with traditional Mexican hot chocolate for an authentic celebration.

Special Equipment

• Electric Mixer: A handheld or stand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar much easier.
• Piping Bag or Zip-Top Bag: For neatly portioning the cheesecake filling.
• Baking Sheets: Line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Wire Rack: Essential for cooling the cookies without trapping steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought cheesecake for the filling?
Yes, you can use store-bought cheesecake and freeze small scoops to use as the filling.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before assembling the cookies.

3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for its flavor and texture, but margarine can be used as a substitute.

4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Ensure the cheesecake filling is frozen solid and that the dough completely encases the filling before baking.

5. Can I air-fry these cookies?
Yes, you can air-fry the cookies at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, but they may not spread as much.

6. Can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles easily for larger batches.

8. How do I make the cookies more churro-like?
After baking, brush the cookies with melted butter and roll them in an extra layer of cinnamon sugar.

Conclusion

Churro Cheesecake Cookies combine the beloved flavors of churros and cheesecake into a single, irresistible dessert. With their soft, creamy centers and crunchy, cinnamon-sugar coating, these cookies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party or indulging in a late-night treat, this recipe guarantees smiles and satisfied cravings. Try these cookies today, and experience the perfect fusion of two classic desserts in every bite!

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