If you’ve ever struggled to choose between the cinnamon-sugar delight of a churro and the rich creaminess of cheesecake, you’re in luck! Churro Cheesecake Cookies bring together the best of both worlds in one bite-sized treat. Soft, spiced, and irresistibly creamy, these donut-inspired cookies are a standout treat for any occasion. Perfectly balanced between sweet and spiced, these cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
PrintChurro Cheesecake Cookies
These Churro Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect blend of sweet, cinnamon goodness and creamy cheesecake filling. 🍪✨ #ChurroDelight #CookieHeaven #CinnamonSwirl #CheesecakeLovers #SweetToothFix #BakedWithLove #SugarAndSpice #CookieCravings #DessertDreams #TreatYourself
- Total Time: 30 Minutes
- Yield: 24 Servings (24 Cookies) 1x
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds a slight rise, giving the cookies a light, airy texture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor balance.
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, buttery flavor and ensures a tender cookie.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough while aiding in the cookie’s structure.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Brings in the signature cheesecake flavor and a creamy texture.
Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Combines with cinnamon for that iconic churro coating.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: Adds warm, spiced notes to the coating.
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Environment
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Set aside for later.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat:
- Softened butter
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
Continue mixing until the mixture is light and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, blending until smooth. Then, beat in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Stop as soon as the dough is combined to avoid overmixing.
6. Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space each cookie about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
7. Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain soft.
8. Prepare the Churro Coating
While the cookies bake, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
9. Coat the Cookies
Once the cookies come out of the oven, allow them to cool for 2-3 minutes. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
10. Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, drizzle with cream cheese glaze for an added layer of indulgence.
Notes
- Softened Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened for smooth mixing and the best cookie texture.
- Churro Coating: Roll the cookies in cinnamon-sugar while still warm to help the coating adhere.
- Even Baking: Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized cookies, ensuring even baking.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 15 Minutes
Whether you’re baking for a holiday spread, a casual gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe offers a simple yet decadent way to elevate your cookie game.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Unique Flavor Profile: Combines the cinnamon-sugar warmth of churros with the tangy creaminess of cheesecake.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: These cookies have a light, donut-like consistency, making each bite feel indulgent.
- Easy Elegance: They’re straightforward to make but look and taste like a gourmet treat.
- Versatility: Enjoy them plain or dress them up with a cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of decadence.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up these irresistible cookies.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds a slight rise, giving the cookies a light, airy texture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor balance.
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, buttery flavor and ensures a tender cookie.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough while aiding in the cookie’s structure.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Brings in the signature cheesecake flavor and a creamy texture.
Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Combines with cinnamon for that iconic churro coating.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: Adds warm, spiced notes to the coating.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create your batch of Churro Cheesecake Cookies:
1. Prepare Your Baking Environment
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Set aside for later.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat:
- Softened butter
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
Continue mixing until the mixture is light and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, blending until smooth. Then, beat in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Stop as soon as the dough is combined to avoid overmixing.
6. Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space each cookie about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
7. Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain soft.
8. Prepare the Churro Coating
While the cookies bake, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
9. Coat the Cookies
Once the cookies come out of the oven, allow them to cool for 2-3 minutes. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
10. Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, drizzle with cream cheese glaze for an added layer of indulgence.
Flavor and Texture
When you take your first bite, expect a delightful crunch from the cinnamon-sugar coating, followed by the soft, tender texture of the cookie. The cream cheese adds a tangy richness, complementing the warm cinnamon spice perfectly. The balance of flavors and textures makes these cookies utterly addictive!
Tips for Success
- Softened Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened for smooth mixing and the best cookie texture.
- Churro Coating: Roll the cookies in cinnamon-sugar while still warm to help the coating adhere.
- Even Baking: Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized cookies, ensuring even baking.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
Variations
- Glazed Delight: Add a drizzle of cream cheese or vanilla glaze for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the dough for additional depth.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold mini chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a cup of spiced chai tea, hot chocolate, or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Add them to a dessert platter alongside brownies and macarons for a show-stopping presentation.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply scoop and freeze portions on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag.
These Churro Cheesecake Cookies are the epitome of indulgence, perfect for satisfying cravings or impressing guests. With their unique blend of flavors and textures, they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.