Churro Cheesecake Bars Bliss

This churro cheesecake bar recipe transforms simple crescent rolls into a decadent dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheesecake filling, and that unmistakable cinnamon sugar coating creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

I first made these for a Cinco de Mayo party last year and they disappeared within minutes. Now my husband requests them for every gathering we host regardless of the occasion.

Ingredients

• Pillsbury crescent rolls: the flaky layers create that authentic churro texture
• Granulated sugar: provides the perfect level of sweetness in both the filling and coating
• Ground cinnamon: creates that classic churro flavor profile use fresh cinnamon for best results
• Cream cheese: use full fat for the richest flavor and creamiest texture
• Vanilla extract: adds depth to the cheesecake layer look for pure rather than imitation
• Egg: binds the cheesecake filling together and provides structure

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to exactly 350°F to ensure even baking. Thoroughly grease your 9x13 baking dish making sure to get into the corners where sticking is most likely to occur. The proper preparation here prevents your beautiful bars from tearing when served.

Create The Cinnamon Sugar Mix:

Combine your granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl mixing thoroughly until no streaks of cinnamon remain. This mixture creates that signature churro coating that transforms ordinary crescent dough into something magical.

Make The Cheesecake Filling:

Beat your softened cream cheese in a stand mixer or with hand beaters until it becomes light and fluffy about 30 seconds. Gradually add in your sugar vanilla extract and egg beating until completely smooth with no lumps. Take care not to overbeat once the egg is added as this can cause cracks in your final product.

Prepare The Crescent Dough:

Open both cans of crescent rolls and unroll them carefully. Using a rolling pin flatten each sheet of dough into a uniform rectangle erasing the perforations. This creates smooth continuous layers for your bars rather than a patchwork effect.

Assemble Your Bars:

Sprinkle a quarter cup of your prepared cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This creates that distinctive churro crunch on the bottom layer. Carefully lay your first sheet of crescent dough over the cinnamon sugar pressing gently to adhere. Pour your cheesecake filling over the bottom layer spreading all the way to the edges. Top with your second sheet of crescent dough and generously sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over the top.

Bake To Golden Perfection:

Bake in your preheated oven for 27 to 30 minutes watching carefully in the final minutes. The top should be golden brown and slightly puffed. Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices and proper setting of the cheesecake layer.

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The cinnamon is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered that using freshly ground cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor. My grandmother always kept cinnamon sticks in her pantry and would grind them fresh for special desserts. Following her tradition with these bars brings back wonderful memories of baking in her kitchen as a child.

Storage Tips

These churro cheesecake bars should be refrigerated once cooled. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will keep beautifully for up to 5 days though they rarely last that long in my house. For longer storage you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Allow frozen bars to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Variation Ideas

While the classic recipe is perfection there are several delicious variations worth trying. Add a drizzle of dulce de leche over the top for a caramel churro experience. Mix mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake layer for a chocolate churro twist. You can even add a teaspoon of orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a subtle citrus note that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated further with thoughtful serving ideas. Try warming them slightly and serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant touch. For a complete dessert experience pair with Mexican hot chocolate or cafe con leche to highlight the cinnamon flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

Mascarpone cheese can be used as a substitute, but it may result in a slightly creamier texture.

→ How do I store leftover bars?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best freshness.

→ What if I don't have a rolling pin for the dough?

You can press the dough flat with your hands or use a clean bottle as an alternative to a rolling pin.

→ Can I use pre-made cinnamon sugar?

Yes, pre-made cinnamon sugar works just as well and saves time during preparation.