Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Churro Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of classic churros with a creamy cheesecake filling. Imagine biting into a soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie, only to discover a sweet and smooth cheesecake surprise inside. This recipe is perfect for dessert lovers looking to try something new and exciting!

Why Make This Recipe

These cookies are not just any ordinary dessert; they bring together the best characteristics of churros and cheesecake. If you love churros’ crispy exterior and rich, sweet filling, you’ll enjoy these cookies. They are great for parties, family gatherings, or when you just want a special treat. Plus, they are easy to make and can impress anyone with their unique flavor and texture!

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup granulated sugar for coating
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 cup caramel sauce (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag and set aside.
Shape the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten them slightly to form small disks. Pipe a small amount of the cheesecake filling into the center of each disk. Carefully fold the edges of the cookie dough over the filling, sealing it completely, and roll into a smooth ball.
Coat the Cookies: In a shallow dish, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating it evenly.
Bake the Cookies: Place the coated cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve: Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Serve Churro Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies can be served warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family. You can place them on a fancy plate or in a cookie jar for a lovely display. If you want to make them even sweeter, drizzle some caramel sauce over them just before serving.

How to Store Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also keep them in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to save them longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last for up to two months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are properly softened for easy mixing.
Use a piping bag with a small tip for filling the cookies to avoid any mess.
Don’t skip rolling the cookies in cinnamon sugar; it gives them that classic churro taste!

Variations

For a fun twist, you can add chocolate chips to the dough or swap out the caramel sauce for chocolate sauce. If you prefer, try different flavors of cream cheese or add a pinch of nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a unique flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese in place of cream cheese?
While cream cheese works best for this recipe, you can try using mascarpone or ricotta cheese, but the texture and flavor might vary slightly.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and just set in the middle. They will firm up as they cool.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to save it longer, freeze it for a couple of months.

Enjoy making these delicious Churro Cheesecake Cookies! They are bound to become a favorite in your home.