Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are a delightful fusion of three indulgent treats: the classic cinnamon-sugar churro, creamy cheesecake, and pillowy donuts. These cookies combine the best of all worlds—crispy edges coated in cinnamon sugar, a soft and fluffy center, and a luscious cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth. Perfect for a dessert table, potluck, or a sweet treat with your coffee, these cookies are sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combo: The cinnamon sugar coating is reminiscent of churros, while the cheesecake filling adds a creamy surprise.
2. Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy, and buttery with a slight crispness from the sugar coating.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: An innovative dessert that always gets rave reviews.
4. Easy to Make: Simple steps with pantry staples and no special equipment required.

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Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 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
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

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

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Scoop out teaspoon-sized portions of the filling onto a lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Scoop out 2-tablespoon portions of cookie dough and flatten each into a disc.
2. Place a frozen cheesecake filling ball in the center of each disc and wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges.
3. Roll the filled dough ball between your palms to ensure the filling is fully enclosed.

Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

1. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating.
2. Roll each cookie dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the cookies are set and the edges are slightly golden.
3. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Variations

1. Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for a unique flavor.
2. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the baked cookies for an extra indulgence.
3. Caramel Cheesecake: Add a teaspoon of caramel sauce to the cheesecake filling for a richer taste.
4. Mini Version: Make smaller cookies with half the dough and filling for bite-sized treats.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 18 large cookies
• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus freezing time for cheesecake filling)
• Bake Time: 12-14 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

1. Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
2. Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

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FAQs

1. Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze the filling up to 3 days in advance.

2. Do I need to chill the cookie dough?

No, the dough doesn’t require chilling as long as the cheesecake filling is frozen solid.

3. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/8 teaspoon.

4. What’s the best way to ensure the cheesecake doesn’t leak out?

Make sure the dough completely covers the cheesecake filling and is tightly sealed.

5. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Absolutely! A hand mixer works well for both the filling and the cookie dough.

6. Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone, but it will yield a slightly different texture.

7. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure the butter isn’t overly softened and measure the flour accurately.

8. Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?

The coating is essential for the churro flavor, but you can reduce the sugar if desired.

9. What can I serve these cookies with?

Pair with coffee, hot cocoa, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

10. Are these cookies kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the fun combination of flavors and the surprise cheesecake center.

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Conclusion

Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are a show-stopping dessert that combines nostalgic flavors with modern creativity. With their cinnamon-sugar coating, creamy cheesecake filling, and irresistible texture, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Try them today for a sweet twist on classic treats!

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