Name: Churro Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 8 oz full-fat cream cheese softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar for coating; 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon for coating

I’ve always had a soft spot for churros—the crisp edges, the warm cinnamon sugar, that unmistakable crunch. One day, while craving something just as comforting but a little more indulgent, I decided to blend that churro magic with the creamy richness of cheesecake. The result was these Churro Cheesecake Cookies, and they instantly became one of my favorite creations.

Every time I bake a batch, the scent of cinnamon fills my kitchen and draws everyone in before the cookies even cool. What I love most is the contrast: a slightly crisp, sugary exterior that gives way to a soft, tangy, melt-in-your-mouth center. It’s the perfect mashup of two classic desserts in one handheld treat.

Why You’ll Love This Churro Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies combine the bold cinnamon-sugar coating of a traditional churro with the smooth, rich texture of cheesecake. Each bite delivers warmth, sweetness, and just a hint of tanginess that keeps them from feeling overly sweet.

They’re also baked instead of fried, which makes them easier and less messy to prepare. Whether you’re planning dessert for a gathering, adding something special to your holiday baking list, or simply treating yourself, these cookies fit beautifully into any occasion.

What Makes Churro Cheesecake Cookies So Irresistibly Soft?

The secret comes down to the cream cheese blended directly into the dough. It adds moisture and richness while creating that signature cheesecake flavor. Unlike traditional cookies, the texture stays tender and slightly creamy in the center.

Another important factor is careful baking. Removing the cookies from the oven when the centers are just set ensures they remain soft. As they cool, they firm up slightly but keep that delicate, bakery-style texture.

Options for Substitutions

If you’d like to adjust the recipe, you can substitute full-fat cream cheese with reduced-fat cream cheese, though the cookies may be slightly less rich. Brown sugar can replace part of the granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.

For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend designed for cookies. You can also experiment with the cinnamon-sugar coating by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and complexity.

Ingredients for this Churro Cheesecake Cookies

All-Purpose Flour
Provides the structure for the cookies. It gives them enough stability to hold their shape while still allowing the centers to stay soft and tender.

Cream Cheese (Full-Fat, Softened)
The key ingredient that creates the cheesecake flavor and creamy texture. It adds richness, moisture, and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.

Unsalted Butter (Softened)
Adds flavor and helps create a soft, chewy cookie texture. Using unsalted butter allows better control over the overall salt level.

Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the dough and is also used in the cinnamon-sugar coating to create that classic churro-style exterior.

Brown Sugar
Adds moisture and a subtle caramel depth that enhances the cheesecake flavor and keeps the cookies soft.

Egg
Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the soft, rich texture of the cookie.

Vanilla Extract
Enhances both the cinnamon and cheesecake flavors, giving the cookies a warm, bakery-style aroma.

Baking Powder
Helps the cookies rise slightly, creating a light interior rather than a dense texture.

Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

Ground Cinnamon
Essential for the churro flavor. It’s mixed with sugar to coat the cookies and give them their signature warm spice.

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir thoroughly until evenly mixed. This coating is what gives the cookies their churro-inspired finish, so make sure the cinnamon is well distributed. Set aside for rolling the dough later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial—proper creaming ensures a lump-free dough and evenly distributed richness. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Sugars and Blend Until Fluffy

Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Beat until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, which helps create a softer cookie texture after baking.

Step 4: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined. The mixture should look smooth and slightly glossy. Avoid overmixing at this stage to prevent excess air incorporation.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution and prevents clumping.

Step 6: Gradually Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Continue until just combined. Do not overmix—this can make the cookies tough instead of tender.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping prevent excessive spreading during baking.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop equal portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls using your hands. Aim for uniform size to ensure even baking.

Step 9: Roll in Cinnamon-Sugar

Roll each dough ball generously in the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating all sides. This step creates the iconic churro-style crust once baked.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 10–13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft, cheesecake-like interior.

Step 11: Cool and Set

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. As they cool, they will firm up slightly while remaining soft inside.

How Long to Prepare the Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Preparing Churro Cheesecake Cookies is pleasantly straightforward, and most of the time involved is hands-off. From start to finish, you can expect the entire process to take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including chilling time. The active preparation itself is relatively quick, making this recipe ideal for both planned gatherings and spontaneous baking sessions.

Prep Time (20–25 minutes):
This includes softening the butter and cream cheese, mixing the dough, preparing the cinnamon-sugar coating, and shaping the cookie dough. If your ingredients are already at room temperature, this step moves even faster.

Chill Time (30–60 minutes):
Chilling the dough is essential for controlling spread and enhancing flavor. While 30 minutes works well, a full hour allows the flour to fully hydrate and results in a thicker, softer cookie.

Bake Time (10–13 minutes per batch):
Each tray bakes quickly. Depending on your oven size, you may need 2–3 batches.

Tips for Perfect Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Use room-temperature cream cheese and butter to ensure a smooth, lump-free dough. Cold ingredients can create uneven texture.

Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make the cookies dense instead of soft.

Roll the dough generously in cinnamon sugar for a bold churro flavor and a slightly crisp exterior.

Slightly underbake the cookies for the best texture. The centers should look just set when you remove them from the oven.

Allow cookies to cool fully to develop their final texture. The cheesecake-like center settles as they rest.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overmixing the dough after adding flour can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.

Skipping the chilling step may cause excessive spreading and flatter cookies.

Overbaking will remove the creamy, soft interior that makes these cookies special.

Using low-fat cream cheese may slightly alter texture and richness.

Crowding the baking sheet can cause uneven baking and spreading.

What to Serve With Churro Cheesecake Cookies?

1. Hot Chocolate

The rich cocoa flavor pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating.

2. Fresh Strawberries

Their natural acidity balances the sweetness and complements the cheesecake notes.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

4. Caramel Sauce

A light drizzle adds extra indulgence and enhances the churro-inspired flavor.

5. Coffee or Latte

The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature (Up to 3 Days):
Store the cookies in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator (Up to 1 Week):
Because of the cream cheese, refrigeration extends freshness. Allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer (Up to 2 Months):
Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls and bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to baking time.

Estimated Nutrition

Per cookie (approximate values, based on standard-size cookies):

Calories: 180–220
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2–3g
Fat: 10–12g
Saturated Fat: 6–7g
Sugar: 14–16g
Sodium: 120–150mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stuff these cookies with extra cheesecake filling?

Yes, you can freeze small portions of sweetened cream cheese and wrap the dough around them before baking for a filled version.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This usually happens if the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or if the butter was too soft.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Granulated sugar substitutes designed for baking can work, but texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should look lightly golden, while the centers should appear set but soft.

Conclusion

Churro Cheesecake Cookies bring together the warmth of cinnamon sugar and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake in one irresistible dessert. They’re simple enough for everyday baking yet impressive enough for special occasions. With the right technique and a little attention to detail, you’ll have a batch of soft, flavorful cookies that disappear almost as quickly as you can serve them.