Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies Recipe

These Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are an irresistible fusion of three beloved treats: churros, cheesecake, and cookies. With a buttery cookie base, creamy cheesecake filling, and a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re a fun and decadent dessert that’s sure to impress!

Makes: 12-16 cookies

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter , softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese , softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

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

For Assembly:

• 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

1. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough and roll them into balls.
2. Flatten each ball into a disc (about 2 inches in diameter) and place a small spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center.
3. Carefully wrap the cookie dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Roll the dough ball gently between your palms to smooth it out.
4. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes , or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. The centers may still look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.
2. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 6: Coat the Cookies

1. While the cookies are still warm, brush the tops lightly with melted butter.
2. Roll each cookie in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
2. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

Tips for Success:

• Use quality cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor for the cheesecake filling.
• Make ahead: Assemble the cookies ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of nutmeg or espresso powder to the cheesecake filling for extra depth.

Nutritional Information (per cookie, makes 16):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~12g

Enjoy these Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies as a delightful mash-up of textures and flavors—crispy, chewy, creamy, and sweet all in one bite! They’re perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to indulge in something truly special.