If you are searching for a dessert that captures the warm, nostalgic flavor of cinnamon sugar and the luscious creaminess of cheesecake in one delightful treat, look no further than this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe. This mouthwatering dessert combines soft crescent roll layers with a rich cream cheese filling, finished with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust and a drizzle of chocolate that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s incredibly simple to prepare and makes for a fantastic, crowd-pleasing snack or dessert that infuses a bit of churro magic into classic cheesecake bars.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet each plays an essential role in building the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your churro cheesecake bars. From the flaky crescent roll crust to the creamy filling, everything works in harmony.
- 16 ounces refrigerated crescent rolls: Provides a flaky, buttery base and top layer that’s quick to work with and bakes up golden.
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened): The star of the filling, delivering that rich, smooth cheesecake texture and tang.
- 1/2 cup white sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right without overpowering it.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that deepens the overall flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the filling, helping it set perfectly by the time it’s baked.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted): Creates a golden, crisp top when brushed over the crust and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The essential churro flavor component that brings the dessert to life.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Combined with cinnamon, it creates that classic sugary topping you expect with churros.
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup: Optional but highly recommended for drizzling to add an indulgent chocolatey finish.
How to Make Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F, ensuring it’s hot and ready when you assemble your bars. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup white sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. This filling forms the luscious heart of your churro cheesecake bars, so take care to make it perfectly combined with no lumps.
Step 2: Assemble the Base and Filling
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to keep your bars from sticking. Unroll the first package of crescent rolls and press them evenly into the bottom of the pan, making sure to seal any seams so the filling doesn’t escape. This creates a flaky, buttery crust that complements the creamy filling beautifully. Next, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over this base layer for a smooth, rich center.
Step 3: Add the Top Layer and Cinnamon Sugar
Unroll the second package of crescent rolls and carefully drape it over the cream cheese filling, pressing gently to cover evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and 1/4 cup sugar to make the classic churro topping. Brush the melted butter over the top crescent layer to help the cinnamon sugar adhere, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the whole surface to create that caramelized, crunchy topping.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
Bake your assembled churro cheesecake bars for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set firmly. Once out of the oven, allow the bars to cool slightly before drizzling with chocolate syrup for a decadent finishing touch. This simple yet indulgent step takes these bars from delicious to unforgettable.
How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your churro cheesecake bars, sprinkle a little powdered sugar or chopped nuts for extra texture and a nice presentation pop. A dollop of whipped cream on the side also pairs beautifully, adding an airy contrast to the dense filling. Don’t hesitate to layer on a little extra chocolate drizzle for an irresistible final flourish.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars with a cup of rich coffee or hot chocolate, as the warmth complements the cinnamon and cream cheese flavors perfectly. For a refreshing twist, a simple fruit salad with berries or sliced mango balances the richness with bright, juicy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into small bite-sized squares and serve them on a platter for a party appetizer or dessert buffet. For a fun twist, serve them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or use cookie cutters to create festive shapes, making this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe an exciting treat for kids and adults alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cheesecake bars keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Keeping them chilled ensures the filling maintains its creamy texture and the crust stays perfectly moist without getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the bars after they have completely cooled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge to preserve their texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm them in a 300˚F oven for 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp while warming the filling just right.
FAQs
Can I use homemade crescent roll dough instead of refrigerated crescent rolls?
Absolutely! Homemade crescent roll dough will work beautifully and can add a personal touch. Just ensure your dough is rolled out thinly to maintain the right texture and bake time.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the crescent rolls with a gluten-free dough option, and double-check that other ingredients like chocolate syrup are gluten-free as well. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.
What other toppings can I use besides chocolate syrup?
You can try caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even fresh fruit compote to complement the cinnamon and cream cheese flavors without overpowering them.
Can I prepare the bars in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bars a day before and refrigerate them, then bake right before serving. This is a convenient way to have a fresh dessert ready with minimal effort on the day of your event.
How many bars does this recipe serve?
This recipe yields about 24 bars, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or sharing with family and friends.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully comforting about this Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe — from the flaky, buttery layers to the creamy filling and that iconic cinnamon sugar finish. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your dessert lineup. I promise, once you make these bars, they’ll hold a special place in your heart and on your table, just like they have on mine. Give it a try and watch how this simple recipe brings smiles all around!
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Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
Description
These Churro Cheesecake Bars combine the flaky texture of crescent rolls with a creamy, sweet cheesecake filling, topped with a cinnamon-sugar butter glaze and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened (2 blocks)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Crust and Topping
- 16 ounces refrigerated crescent rolls (2 – 8 ounce packages)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup (e.g., Hershey’s), for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) to prepare for baking the bars.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup white sugar, vanilla extract, and egg. Use an electric mixer or whisk by hand until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Prepare Baking Dish and Assemble: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. Press the first roll of crescent rolls evenly into the bottom of the dish, making sure to seal all the seams so there are no gaps. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust. Then, cover the cheesecake layer with the second roll of crescent rolls, pressing gently to close seams and cover the filling.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and 1/4 cup white sugar. Brush the melted butter over the top layer of crescent rolls, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top to coat.
- Bake: Place the prepared dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bars are set and the top is golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle with chocolate syrup before slicing into bars and serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
- Sealing the seams of the crescent rolls helps prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking during baking.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute the white sugar in the filling or topping with brown sugar.
- Chocolate syrup drizzle is optional but adds a nice finishing touch.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American

