Churro Cheesecake Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Fusion: Combines the best of churros and cheesecake in one bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and a few common fridge items.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or just treating yourself.
• Customizable: Optional caramel drizzle adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores well for up to a week in the fridge.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Caramel Sauce (Optional):
1 cup caramel sauce

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
   • In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
   • Transfer the filling to a piping bag and set aside.
3. Shape the Cookies:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Roll dough into 1-inch balls and flatten into small disks.
   • Pipe a small amount of cheesecake filling onto the center of each disk.
   • Fold edges over the filling, seal completely, and roll into a smooth ball.
4. Coat the Cookies:
   • Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
   • Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring even coating.
5. Bake:
   • Place cookies on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
   • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
   • Cool cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
6. Serve:
   • Drizzle with caramel sauce, if desired, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes.
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes.
• Total Time: 35 minutes.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Swap caramel sauce for melted chocolate.
• Spiced Coating: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mix.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Mini Cookies: Roll smaller balls for bite-sized treats.
• Savory Twist: Reduce sugar in the dough and omit the coating for a unique take.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

2. What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?

Place it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

3. Can I use store-bought cinnamon sugar?

Absolutely! Pre-made cinnamon sugar works perfectly.

4. Can these cookies be made without the cheesecake filling?

Yes, they’ll still be delicious as classic churro cookies.

5. What if my dough is too sticky?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

6. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Ensure the dough is well-sealed around the filling before baking.

7. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance flavors.

8. How do I store leftover caramel sauce?

Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

9. What type of caramel sauce works best?

Both homemade and store-bought caramel sauce work well.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches.

Conclusion

Churro Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat combining the flavors of cinnamon-sugar churros with creamy cheesecake filling. With their easy preparation and versatile options, they’re perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a sweet tooth. Try them today and savor the delicious fusion of flavors

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