Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies: A Sweet Fusion You’ll Love

If you’re anything like me, you can never settle on just one dessert. That’s exactly why I love these Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies—they combine the best parts of three classic treats into something even better.

Imagine the crispy cinnamon-sugar crunch of a churro, the creamy richness of cheesecake, and the soft, pillowy texture of a donut. These cookies are perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Once you try them, they’ll become your new favorite dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • The Best of Three Desserts – Churros, cheesecake, and donuts all in one bite.
  • Easy to Make – No fancy techniques, just simple steps.
  • Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will devour these.
  • Customizable – Adjust the filling, coating, or even add toppings.

I first made these for a family get-together, and let’s just say I barely had time to grab one before they disappeared. Now, they’re a must-have at every gathering, and I love how easy they are to whip up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

The Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

donut cheesecake bites

How to Make Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Step-1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar – In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add Eggs and Vanilla – Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Form the Dough – Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  5. Chill – Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for easier handling.

Step-2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Mix the Filling – In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add Sugar and Vanilla – Mix in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step-3: Assemble the Cookies

  1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Shape the Cookies – Take about 1 tablespoon of dough, flatten it, place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center, and cover with another tablespoon of dough. Seal the edges.
  3. Arrange on Baking Sheet – Space the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step-4: Bake and Coat

  1. Bake – Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
  2. Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating – Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
  3. Coat the Cookies – Once baked, let the cookies cool slightly. While still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Tips for Perfect Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

  • Use Softened Cream Cheese – Ensures a smooth, creamy filling.
  • Chill the Dough – Makes shaping the cookies much easier.
  • Seal the Edges Well – Prevents the cheesecake filling from leaking.
  • Roll in Cinnamon-Sugar While Warm – Helps the coating stick better.

Fun Variations & Substitutions

  • Try Different Fillings – Swap out the cheesecake filling for Nutella, caramel, or fruit preserves.
  • Make a Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Drizzle with Sauce – A caramel or chocolate drizzle adds extra indulgence.
  • Add a Crunch – Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or cinnamon cereal on top.

Serving & Storage Tips Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate – These cookies are perfect with a warm drink.
  • Serve Warm – The filling is extra creamy when enjoyed fresh from the oven.

How to Store

  • Refrigeration – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – To restore crispiness, pop them in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

donut cheesecake bites

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?

Yes! If you’re short on time, premade sugar cookie dough works well for this recipe.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance, assemble the cookies, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Do These Freeze Well?

Yes! Freeze unbaked cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Can I Make These Without the Cheesecake Filling?

Yes! If you prefer a more traditional churro-style cookie, you can skip the cheesecake filling and simply bake the dough as is, then coat with cinnamon sugar.

What Other Spices Can I Use in the Coating?

For a unique twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra depth of flavor.

Let’s Make This a Favorite!

If you love churros, cheesecake, and donuts, these Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are calling your name. Try them out, and let me know how they turn out!

Looking for more delicious treats? Check out these recipes:

Save this recipe on Pinterest so you never lose it, and share your creations by tagging me. I can’t wait to see your delicious cookies!

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance, assemble the cookies, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Pair them with Mini Pineapple Coconut Cheesecakes for a dessert spread that’s sure to impress! Enjoy baking and sharing these sweet delights.

Enjoy your delicious Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies, and if you give it a try and like it, we’d love to hear how it turned out—share your experience with us!

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donut cheesecake bites

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies


  • Author: Dana
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Imagine the crispy cinnamon-sugar crunch of a churro, the creamy richness of cheesecake, and the soft, airy texture of a donut all wrapped up in a handheld cookie. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until combined.
  5. Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
  7. Mix in sugar and vanilla extract.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Take 1 tablespoon of dough, flatten it, add 1 teaspoon of cheesecake filling, and cover with another tablespoon of dough.
  10. Seal edges and arrange cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
  11. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges turn golden.
  12. Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
  13. Roll warm cookies in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Notes

Chill the dough for easier handling. Roll cookies in cinnamon sugar while warm for the best churro flavor!

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 75mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: churro, cheesecake, donut, cookies, cinnamon, dessert

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