If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar mixed with creamy indulgence, you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe. These cookies surprise you with a soft, buttery bite wrapped around a luscious cheesecake center, all dusted generously in that classic churro-style cinnamon-sugar coating. Imagine sinking your teeth into something that perfectly blends a crispy churro’s charm with the velvety creaminess of cheesecake, creating an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try these, they’re going to become your new favorite sweet snack to bake and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together these cookies is wonderfully straightforward because each ingredient plays a vital role. From the richness of butter and cream cheese to the warm spices and sweet cinnamon sugar, these staples come together brilliantly to create that perfect churro cheesecake experience.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a soft, tender cookie base with rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds moisture and tanginess to the cookie dough for that luscious texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the tang from the cream cheese.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a subtle caramel note enhancing the cookie’s depth.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Gives warmth and enhances all the other flavors seamlessly.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind everything together while adding richness.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and tenderness to the cookie.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the dough for just enough rise and softness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor layers.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the dough with that signature churro warmth.
- 1/2 cup cinnamon-sugar (for rolling): Creates the classic churro exterior you crave.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Forms the creamy cheesecake center that oozes with every bite.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling delicately without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness to the cheesecake filling.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Your Workspace
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Having everything ready upfront makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. The key here is to mix until the texture is smooth and creamy—this combination lays the foundation for your soft, rich cookies. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each to create a well-incorporated, luscious dough.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This mix ensures your dough will have even flavor and proper rise. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into your wet mixture until you have a consistent cookie dough with delightful warmth from the cinnamon.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Whip the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together in a small bowl until you get a creamy, smooth filling. This cheesecake mixture is going to be the luscious surprise right at the center of every cookie.
Step 5: Assemble the Cookies
Scoop out about one tablespoon of dough and flatten it lightly in your hand. Place a small dollop of the cheesecake filling in the middle, then carefully wrap the dough around it, making sure to seal all edges well so the filling doesn’t leak out during baking. The enclosing creates a wonderful, hidden treasure of cheesecake inside the cinnamon-spiced cookie.
Step 6: Coat and Bake
Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated, giving your cookies that signature churro look and extra sweetness. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen, promising a delicious treat.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set and finish baking internally without becoming dry. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before indulging. You’re now ready to enjoy the perfect blend of soft churro texture and creamy cheesecake delight!
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar over the top can elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of sweetness. You might also drizzle some melted chocolate or a caramel sauce for an indulgent touch that complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cup of strong coffee, a creamy latte, or even a frothy hot chocolate. The warm spices and creamy filling make these cookies an excellent companion to your favorite warm beverages. They also make a charming addition to dessert platters or as a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the cookies in small decorative boxes or wrapped individually with ribbons if gifting. You can also arrange them on a festive plate surrounded by cinnamon sticks or holiday greenery to highlight their churro inspiration. For parties, try skewering a few with cinnamon sticks as toothpicks for a fun, handheld dessert presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe treats are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to three days without losing their softness or unique texture, making them an ideal bake-ahead snack.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them either baked or as assembled dough balls. Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm slightly if you want to revive that freshly baked feel.
Reheating
For warm, melty cheesecake goodness, reheat your cookies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as reheating in the oven maintains the crisp exterior and creamy interior better.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Low-fat cream cheese might alter the texture, making the dough and filling less creamy and tender. For the best rich and soft results, full-fat cream cheese is recommended.
How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking out?
Make sure to seal the dough completely around the cheesecake dollop by pinching the edges firmly. Slightly flattening the dough before adding filling and carefully wrapping it helps keep everything sealed during baking.
Can these cookies be made dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, you could adapt the recipe. However, the flavor and texture may change, so it might take some experimenting to get them just right.
What is the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
For accurate results, it’s best to spoon the flour lightly into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, to avoid packing it in and making the dough too dense.
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves could complement the cinnamon nicely, creating a spicier churro cheesecake cookie variation that’s perfect for the holidays.
Final Thoughts
This Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is truly a celebration of sweet warmth and creamy indulgence wrapped into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these cookies bring a joyful twist to classic flavors that will brighten up any day. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do!
Print
Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Churro Cheesecake Cookies, a perfect blend of cinnamon-sugar coated cookie dough filled with a smooth cheesecake center. These soft and flavorful cookies bring together the beloved churro spice with creamy cheesecake goodness, ideal for any dessert table or sweet snack craving.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cinnamon-sugar (for rolling)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time to the mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully combined to form the cookie dough.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cookies: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a small dollop of cheesecake filling in the center of the dough.
- Seal the Filling: Carefully wrap the dough around the cheesecake filling, sealing the edges completely to form a ball and encase the filling inside.
- Coat & Place: Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat thoroughly, then place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are set.
- Cool & Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy the gooey cheesecake filling and crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dough.
- Do not overfill the cookies with cheesecake filling to prevent leakage during baking.
- You can adjust the cinnamon-sugar ratio according to your taste preference for a stronger or milder churro flavor.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a festive look, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over cooled cookies before serving.
