Combining the classic flavors of churros with a creamy cheesecake filling, these Churro Cheesecake Cookies are an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. The cookies are made from a buttery dough that is filled with a rich cheesecake mixture, then coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking. The result is a soft and chewy cookie with a deliciously creamy center and a sweet, crunchy exterior. Serve these cookies fresh from the oven with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a dessert, these cookies are sure to delight everyone who tries them.
Churro Cheesecake Cookies combine the classic flavors of churros with a creamy cheesecake filling, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies are soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated, and filled with a rich cheesecake center, making them irresistible to anyone with a sweet tooth.
INGREDIENTS
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened. Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
- 1 cup granulated sugar. Provides sweetness and helps create a tender cookie texture.
- 2 large eggs. Bind the dough and add moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract. Enhances the flavor of the cookies.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour. Forms the structure of the dough.
- 1 tsp baking powder. Helps the cookies rise.
- 1/2 tsp salt. Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened. Creates a rich, creamy filling.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Adds sweetness to the filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract. Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1 cup granulated sugar. Adds a sweet, crunchy coating.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon. Provides a warm, spicy flavor.
- For the Caramel Sauce (optional):
- 1 cup caramel sauce. Adds an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- 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, then add the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. This step forms the base of your cookies, ensuring a tender and flavorful dough.
- Step 2:
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a small mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag. This creates a rich, creamy center for the cookies.
- Step 3:
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten each ball into a disk. Pipe a small amount of the cheesecake filling into the center of each disk, then fold the edges over the filling to enclose it. Roll each filled dough ball in your hands to smooth out the surface. This step ensures each cookie has a perfect cheesecake-filled center.
- Step 4:
- Coat the Cookies: In a shallow dish, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating it evenly. This adds a delicious cinnamon-sugar crust to each cookie.
- Step 5:
- 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 and set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the cookies are perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.
- Step 6:
- (Optional) Serve with Caramel Sauce: If desired, drizzle the cooled cookies with caramel sauce before serving for an extra touch of sweetness. This adds an extra layer of flavor and decadence to the cookies.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Fresh: These Churro Cheesecake Cookies are best served fresh, straight from the oven, while the cheesecake filling is still slightly warm and gooey.
- Pair with Beverages: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of milk for a delightful treat.
- Optional Toppings: Drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar before serving for added sweetness and flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their freshness and keeps the cheesecake filling from spoiling.
- Reheat Properly: To reheat, place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will help retain their texture and flavor.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Softening Butter and Cream Cheese: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before using. This helps create a smooth, creamy texture for both the dough and the filling.
- Even Coating: Roll the cookies in the cinnamon sugar mixture thoroughly to ensure an even coating. This adds to the churro-like flavor and texture.
- Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as adding a bit of fruit jam or chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling for a unique twist.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Alton Brown suggests chilling the dough slightly before shaping the cookies to make it easier to handle and reduce spreading during baking.
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor in both the dough and the cheesecake filling.
- Chef Martha Stewart advises using a piping bag for the cheesecake filling to ensure even distribution and a smooth finish.