If there’s ever been a dessert that blends nostalgia and pure indulgence, it’s Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars. Imagine a base of buttery crescent rolls, creamy vanilla-laced cheesecake, and a crunchy blanket of cinnamon sugar on top—every bite is a magical mix of two beloved classics. This treat delivers the heartwarming flavors of a fresh churro and the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all in bar form, making it the perfect answer to your next bake sale, potluck, or sweet craving at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how such humble, everyday staples come together to make something so extraordinary! Each ingredient in these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars plays a special role, working together to create layers of crunch, creaminess, and irresistible warmth.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: Effortless, flaky layers form both the base and the top of your bars—no pastry skills required.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling; let it come to room temperature for lump-free mixing.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness both to the creamy filling and the signature churro-style topping.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar adhere perfectly to the top layer.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the cheesecake filling with warm, aromatic notes.
- Ground cinnamon: The hero spice that brings the unmistakable flavor of classic churros.
How to Make Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a light coat of nonstick spray or a swipe of butter. This step guarantees your Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars will release easily and come out with beautiful, clean edges.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon. Set this sweet-spicy blend aside—it will soon become the cheerful topping that gives these bars their signature churro flair.
Step 3: Lay Down the First Crescent Roll Layer
Pop open one can of crescent roll dough and unroll it. Gently press the dough into the bottom of your prepared dish, pinching the seams together so you have a seamless foundation. This is your crispy, golden base.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Take your time here; a few extra stirs mean a silky, dreamy filling that spreads beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto your prepared dough and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Now, unroll the second can of crescent dough and gently lay it on top of the cheesecake filling. Pinch the seams and tuck the edges so every bite has a perfect pastry layer.
Step 6: Topping and Bake
Pour melted butter evenly across the top dough layer. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter, making sure to get every corner—this is where the churro magic happens. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and set.
Step 7: Cool, Chill, and Slice
Let the bars cool completely on the counter before placing them in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This chilling time sets the cheesecake and makes slicing a breeze. Once cold, cut into bars and get ready to wow!
How to Serve Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
A little flourish can take your bars from delicious to unforgettable! Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of dulce de leche, or a few toasted nuts sprinkled on top for extra texture. Even a dollop of whipped cream on the side looks stunning and adds a touch of airiness.
Side Dishes
Since Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars are rich and sweet, pair them with something light and refreshing. Fresh berries (especially strawberries or raspberries) beautifully cut through the richness. Or offer a small scoop of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream for a true dessert extravaganza.
Creative Ways to Present
Make dessert the highlight of any occasion! Try cutting the bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or stack them dessert-table style for an eye-catching display. For parties, insert a popsicle stick before chilling to create cheesecake bar pops—a hit with both kids and adults.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay perfectly fresh for up to five days, and the flavors actually marry and intensify after a day, making them an even more dreamy snack later on.
Freezing
If you’d like to make a batch ahead, these bars freeze beautifully. Place sliced bars between sheets of parchment in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy just as delicious as day one.
Reheating
Although these bars are wonderful chilled, if you fancy them slightly warm (hello, churro vibes!), just pop a piece into the microwave for about 10 seconds. This softens the filling and brings a gentle warmth to the pastry, but don’t overheat or they’ll lose their delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese both work here, though the filling may be slightly less creamy. The bars will still be decadent and delicious.
What’s the best way to transport Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars to a party?
Chill the bars thoroughly and slice them before transport. Place in a flat, airtight container, lining between layers with parchment to prevent sticking. Keep them cool if possible until you arrive.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute gluten-free crescent dough, which is widely available in many grocery stores. The preparation and baking times remain the same.
Do I need to let the bars chill before serving?
Yes, chilling is essential for the perfect texture. It sets the cheesecake layer, allowing cooler, cleaner slices. Even if you’re impatient, try to give them at least an hour in the fridge!
What’s a good way to double the recipe?
Simply use two 9×13-inch pans or one extra-large baking dish, and double each ingredient. Baking times may increase by 5 to 10 minutes if you use a deeper pan; the top should be golden and the center set.
Final Thoughts
When you share these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars, you’re really sharing happiness by the slice! Their simple, familiar ingredients yield an unforgettable dessert that always gets requests for seconds—so don’t be surprised if this becomes your most-requested recipe. Give them a try and let the smiles speak for themselves!
Print
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of a classic churro and creamy cheesecake with these scrumptious Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Dough:
- 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon and set aside.
- Layer Crescent Roll Dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pinching the seams together.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over the crescent roll dough.
- Add Top Layer: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough on top of the cream cheese layer. Press the seams to seal.
- Top with Cinnamon Sugar: Pour melted butter over the top layer, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and set. Let cool and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars.
Notes
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
- Serve chilled for cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg