If you love the warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness of churros and the creamy delight of cheesecake, then the Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These cookies deliver a perfect marriage of textures and flavors — a crisp, golden outer shell dusted in cinnamon sugar, hugging a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake center. Every bite is a little moment of joy that tastes like a mini celebration. Whether for a cozy afternoon treat or a special occasion dessert, this recipe never disappoints and is charmingly easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to creating these irresistible cookies. Each component plays a key role: from the rich butter bringing softness to the dough, to the cinnamon that gives that classic churro flavor and the cream cheese that transforms the center into a velvety dream.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cookie dough.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a lovely texture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a hint of molasses depth and moisture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances sweet flavor notes.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure for chewy yet soft cookies.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Gives just enough lift for a tender bite.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and rounds out flavors.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that authentic churro taste.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy cheesecake filling inside.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling smoothly.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Adds extra warmth and complexity to the cream cheese mix.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating): The base for the crunchy cinnamon sugar outer layer.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating): Essential for that perfectly spiced churro crunch.
How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Bakeware
Simply start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and get a perfectly smooth base during baking. This little prep step sets the stage for baking success.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until your mixture looks light and fluffy — this airiness will create a tender cookie. Then beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well mixed. Separately, whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon together. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until it forms a soft dough. To get the perfect texture that’s easy to handle, pop the dough into the fridge and chill it for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
For a smooth and creamy filling, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Beat it until it’s completely smooth and creamy — no lumps allowed! Once ready, chill the filling for 15 minutes to make it easier to handle inside the cookies.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
This is where the fun really begins! Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it into your palm. Drop about a teaspoon of that luscious cheesecake filling right in the center. Then carefully wrap the dough around the filling, making sure to seal it completely with no gaps, so the creamy center stays put during baking.
Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Mix your granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each cookie ball thoroughly in this mix until completely coated. This coating will provide that signature churro crunch and spice that makes these cookies so irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are set and the tops puff just a bit. You want that golden hue and firm-on-the-outside, delightfully soft inside texture.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. These are best served warm or at room temperature, so you can catch that gooey cheesecake center in all its glory.
How to Serve Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies Recipe to the next level, consider dusting them with a little extra powdered sugar or drizzle with a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. A sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans adds a lovely crunch contrast as well.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy snack. Fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also add a fresh or creamy complement that balances the spiced sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the cookies on a festive platter with cinnamon sticks and small bowls of caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping. You can also serve them warm right from the oven with skewers for a fun, interactive dessert station that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They remain deliciously soft and gooey, perfect for snacking anytime.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the assembled but unbaked cookie dough balls on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, bake them straight from frozen, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
For the best flavor and texture, gently reheat your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back the warm, melty cheesecake interior and fresh-baked crispness you crave.
FAQs
Can I use light cream cheese for the filling?
Yes, you can use light cream cheese, but the filling may be slightly less rich and creamy. Regular cream cheese gives the classic texture and taste that makes these cookies so indulgent.
Is it possible to make these cookies dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, you can make them dairy-free. Just ensure the substitutes behave similarly in baking for best results.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Make sure to completely seal the dough around the filling, pinching all edges tightly. Chilling the dough beforehand also helps it hold shape during baking.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and you should achieve excellent results.
What is the best way to serve these cookies warm?
Serve them fresh out of the oven or reheat gently in the oven. If desired, add a scoop of ice cream to contrast the warm cookie with a cool, creamy touch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a show-stopping treat that combines classic flavors with a delightful surprise inside, the Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies Recipe is your answer. Easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and just bursting with cozy cinnamon and creamy cheesecake, these cookies really are a little gift to yourself and all those lucky enough to share them with you. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to make your kitchen smell like a warm haven of deliciousness.
Print
Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies combine the delightful cinnamon sugar flavor of churros with a creamy cheesecake filling inside soft, buttery cookies. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, they offer a tender crumb with a surprise cheesy center, ideal for snacking or dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Chill the filling for 15 minutes to help it set for stuffing.
- Assemble the Cookies: Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the chilled cookie dough and flatten it in your hand. Place 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center, then carefully wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it completely to encase the cheesecake.
- Coat Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar: Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each stuffed cookie ball in this cinnamon sugar mixture to give them the classic churro coating.
- Bake the Cookies: Arrange the coated cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear slightly puffed and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Chill the dough properly to prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking during baking.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and smooth filling.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase cinnamon in both the dough and coating by 1/2 teaspoon each.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
