Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies combine the best of three desserts in one: soft, cinnamon-sugar cookies, creamy cheesecake centers, and the playful donut shape. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of cinnamon-spiced sweetness and rich cheesecake, making these cookies a standout treat for dessert lovers. They’re fun, indulgent, and perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg yolk

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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

Directions

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Shape Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Flatten each ball slightly and create a small indentation in the center for the cheesecake filling. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake mixture into each indentation.
Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Add Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: While cookies are still slightly warm, brush the tops with melted butter, then roll or sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Serve: Allow cookies to cool completely before serving to let the cheesecake filling set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after coating with cinnamon sugar.
Mini Version: Make smaller, bite-sized cookies for parties.
Flavored Cheesecake: Add lemon or pumpkin puree to the cheesecake filling for a twist.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar coating.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh the soft texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and cheesecake filling in advance and assemble right before baking.

2. Can I freeze them?

Yes, assemble cookies and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.

3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.

4. Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, substitute vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives.

5. Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

6. Can I use pre-made cheesecake filling?

Yes, store-bought cheesecake filling works for convenience.

7. Do they need to be refrigerated?

Not strictly, but refrigeration helps keep the cheesecake filling firm, especially in warm climates.

8. Can I add fruit to the filling?

Yes, small pieces of strawberries or raspberries can be folded into the cheesecake mixture.

9. How do I keep the cookies soft?

Do not overbake and store in an airtight container once cooled.

10. Can I roll them in powdered sugar instead of cinnamon sugar?

Yes, for a different sweet coating, powdered sugar can be used, though the churro flavor is reduced.

Conclusion

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are an indulgent and playful treat that combines churros, cheesecake, and cookies in one bite. With soft dough, creamy filling, and a cinnamon-sugar finish, these cookies are perfect for any occasion and sure to impress dessert lovers.