Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Churro Cheesecake Cookies combine the irresistible flavors of two beloved desserts—churros and cheesecake—into one delightful treat. These cookies feature a soft, buttery base with a luscious cream cheese filling, dusted with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar to mimic the classic churro flavor.

Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a sweet snack any time, these cookies are easy to make yet deliver gourmet-level flavor. The combination of the tangy cheesecake center and the warm, spiced sweetness of cinnamon sugar creates a unique, decadent cookie that’s guaranteed to impress family and friends.

Whether you’re looking for a standout dessert to add to your holiday cookie tray or a fun twist on traditional cookies, these Churro Cheesecake Cookies are a fantastic choice. They pair wonderfully with coffee, hot cocoa, or milk and can be customized with different flavors, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Churro-Inspired Flavor: The cinnamon-sugar coating adds warmth and sweetness reminiscent of traditional churros.
• Creamy Cheesecake Center: A smooth, tangy filling elevates these cookies to a whole new level.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Easy to prepare but looks and tastes bakery-worthy.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert tables, gifting, or a cozy treat with coffee or tea.
• Customizable: Add flavors like vanilla, caramel, or even chocolate for your personal twist.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes per batch
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Serving Size: 1 cookie

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 160
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Chill the Filling: Scoop teaspoon-sized dollops of the cheesecake mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
3. Portion the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled cookie dough and flatten them into discs.
4. Fill the Cookies: Place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center of each dough disc. Wrap the dough around the filling and roll it into a smooth ball.
5. Coat the Cookies: Roll each cookie ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake: Arrange the coated cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed.
2. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Enjoy these cookies warm or at room temperature. Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
2. Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Ingredient Background

Cream Cheese

• Rich and Tangy: Provides the smooth, cheesecake-like filling that contrasts beautifully with the cookie.
• Softening Tip: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing for a creamy texture.

Cinnamon Sugar

• Churro Flavor: Cinnamon sugar mimics the warm, sweet coating of classic churros, adding depth and flavor.

Butter

• Softened Butter: Ensures a soft and tender cookie dough that’s easy to work with and bakes evenly.

Technique Tips

• Freeze the Filling: Firm cheesecake filling is easier to handle and ensures it stays intact during baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the dough can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading during baking and ensures the cookies hold their shape.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Cookie Bites: Make smaller cookies for bite-sized treats.
• Drizzled Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the baked cookies for added indulgence.
• Festive Decorations: Top with colorful sprinkles or powdered sugar for holidays or special occasions.

Additional Tips for Success

• Space Cookies Evenly: Leave enough room between cookies on the baking sheet to allow for spreading.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For consistent sizing, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough.
• Serve Warm: Warm cookies have an extra gooey filling, making them even more irresistible.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Cinnamon Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon sugar for a spicy-sweet kick.
• Chocolate Lover’s Version: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cookie dough or add chocolate chips.
• Lemon Cheesecake Filling: Mix lemon zest and juice into the cheesecake filling for a citrusy contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Freeze Unbaked Cookies: Assemble the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
• Store Leftovers: Refrigerate baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar in the cookie dough for a less sweet version.
• Lighter Filling: Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Holiday Cookie Tray: Include these cookies on a holiday dessert platter alongside other treats like sugar cookies and chocolate truffles.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve with lattes, cappuccinos, or hot cocoa for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Dessert Bar: Feature these cookies as part of a dessert spread at parties or weddings.

Special Equipment

• Hand Mixer: Perfect for mixing cream cheese and dough.
• Cookie Scoop: Ensures evenly sized cookies.
• Wire Rack: Essential for cooling cookies evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, but homemade dough provides better flavor and texture.

2. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough thoroughly and use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your baking sheet.

3. Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble and freeze unbaked cookies for up to 2 months.

4. What’s the best way to soften cream cheese?
Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it for 10 seconds.

5. Can I use different spices?
Yes, nutmeg or cardamom can be added for a unique flavor twist.

6. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, but the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

7. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

8. What if my cheesecake filling is too soft?
Pop it back in the freezer to firm up before assembling the cookies.

Conclusion

Churro Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful blend of warm, cinnamon-sugar flavor and creamy cheesecake goodness. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, offering the comfort of a churro and the indulgence of cheesecake in one bite-sized treat. Whether served fresh from the oven or at room temperature, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Customize them to suit your style, share them with loved ones, and enjoy a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa for a cozy treat, or serve them as part of a dessert platter at your next gathering.

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