If you’re searching for a cookie that perfectly combines the warming cinnamon-sugar crunch of a churro with the luscious tang of cheesecake, look no further than these Churro Cheesecake Cookies. Each bite delivers a soft, creamy center with a golden, cinnamon-kissed edge that makes them absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or to treat yourself on a cozy afternoon, this recipe is an easy-to-follow ticket to homemade happiness—trust me, they’ll vanish the moment you set them on the table!

Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about making Churro Cheesecake Cookies is how simple and familiar the ingredient list is! Each element has a special role, from creating tender dough to that essential churro sparkle—here’s how these staples work together for cookie bliss.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Brings moisture and richness for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds that signature tang and cheesecake creaminess to every bite.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup for dough): Sweetens the cookies and helps whip up a light, fluffy base.
Large egg: Binds everything together and keeps the cookies tender.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses each cookie with warm, bakery-style aroma.
All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Creates the perfect structure for cookies that don’t spread too thin.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lifts the dough just enough for a soft, puffy center.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup, for rolling): Forms that beloved crunchy churro crust.
Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon, for rolling): Brings classic churro warmth and golden color to the finish.

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and keeps cleanup a breeze, letting you focus on the fun part: baking!

Step 2: Cream Together the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture turns light, fluffy, and almost cloud-like. This step sets the stage for soft, indulgent Churro Cheesecake Cookies by incorporating air and blending the fats together beautifully.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in your egg and pour in the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined. The vanilla enhances those underlying cheesecake flavors, while the egg binds the dough so every cookie holds its shape.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, gently whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Adding dry ingredients separately helps distribute everything evenly, making sure your cookies bake up consistent every time.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until you have a soft, smooth dough. Be careful not to overmix here—you want your Churro Cheesecake Cookies to stay tender, not tough.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. This simple blend is what gives the cookies their irresistible churro finish—it’s definitely worth licking your fingers for!

Step 7: Shape and Coat the Cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Drop each ball into the cinnamon-sugar mix, rolling them gently to fully coat every surface. Arrange the balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches in between for spreading.

Step 8: Press and Bake

Gently press each dough ball down just a little to flatten the tops. Pop the cookies in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are just set and the bottoms are a pale golden brown. The aroma at this stage is pure heaven!

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This little rest helps them set up without falling apart, ensuring that creamy center stays intact. Enjoy your fresh, warm Churro Cheesecake Cookies, or let them cool completely to store for later (if they last that long)!

How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, I love a simple drizzle of cream cheese glaze or even a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar over the top—each option highlights the churro and cheesecake flavors with a bakery-style touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these Churro Cheesecake Cookies with bowls of fresh strawberries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or small mugs of hot chocolate or coffee to turn snack time into a whole experience. The creamy and crisp elements really pop next to sweet, fruity, or cocoa-rich accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a fiesta-inspired platter, stack them high on a rustic cake stand, or pop them in mini cupcake liners for a sweet, easy-to-grab dessert display at your next brunch, potluck, or party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Churro Cheesecake Cookies at their softest, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for 3–4 days, which gives you plenty of time to savor them—if you can resist!

Freezing

Want to get ahead? Bake a batch, cool completely, and freeze the cookies on a tray before transferring to a zip-top freezer bag. Alternatively, you can freeze the raw dough balls (after rolling in cinnamon sugar) and bake fresh straight from the freezer for a spur-of-the-moment treat.

Reheating

If you love a warm cookie, just pop a Churro Cheesecake Cookie in the microwave for 10 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This brings back that just-baked magic and revives the dreamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make Churro Cheesecake Cookies gluten free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend. The results are still tender, chewy, and packed with all that churro cheesecake flavor—perfect for those avoiding gluten.

Can I make these cookies ahead for a party?

Absolutely. The dough can be rolled out, coated in cinnamon sugar, and chilled for up to 24 hours before baking, so you can prep in advance and pop them in the oven right before guests arrive.

Should I refrigerate the dough before baking?

While it’s not required, chilling the dough for 30 minutes makes the cookies a bit thicker and more flavorful as the ingredients meld together. If you have the time, give it a try!

What’s the best way to get perfectly even cookies?

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop ensures uniform size, which means even baking—you get perfectly soft, chewy Churro Cheesecake Cookies every time.

Can I add fillings or mix-ins?

Definitely! You can stuff each dough ball with a bit of sweetened cream cheese or sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the dough for a twist. Play around and make the recipe your own.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you whip up a batch of Churro Cheesecake Cookies, you’ll be hooked on their dreamy combo of flavors and textures! I hope you have as much fun baking (and eating!) these little bites of bliss as my family does. Don’t wait to share them—your cookie jar deserves something extra special!