Name: Irresistible Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483828H52M5S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)

Jump to Recipe

These Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. A perfect blend of soft, chewy, and slightly crisp edges, these cookies take inspiration from churros and donuts, making them an irresistible treat. Infused with a rich cream cheese filling and coated with a cinnamon-sugar topping, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Baked to golden perfection, the combination of the warm, fragrant cinnamon sugar coating and the creamy cheesecake-like texture of the cookies is simply unforgettable. Ideal for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to more formal celebrations, these cookies are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to create these delectable treats in no time. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced pro, this recipe offers both ease and flavor, making it a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Balanced Flavor

The rich cream cheese center combined with the warm, comforting cinnamon-sugar topping delivers a harmonious flavor profile that is both indulgent and comforting.

2. Soft and Chewy Texture

The texture of these cookies is a delightful balance between soft and chewy with just a slight crispiness on the edges, making every bite melt in your mouth.

3. Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, holiday party, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these cookies fit perfectly into any occasion.

4. Easy to Make

With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, even for beginner bakers.

5. Fresh and Warm

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with the sugar-cinnamon coating still warm and fragrant, creating a perfect treat for any time of the day.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar (packed)
Large egg
Vanilla extract
Cream cheese (softened)
Granulated sugar (for coating)
Ground cinnamon (for coating)

Variations

Nutmeg or Cardamom Twist – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture to create a slightly different flavor profile.
Chocolate Chips – Fold in chocolate chips into the dough to add a rich, melty layer of sweetness.
Glazed Finish – Drizzle with a cream cheese glaze after coating with cinnamon sugar for an extra layer of decadence.
Vegan Version – Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
Mini Donut Shape – For a fun twist, shape the dough into mini donut shapes before baking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is creamy and light.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the butter-sugar mixture.

Step 5: Blend in Cream Cheese

Add the softened cream cheese to the wet ingredients and blend until smooth, ensuring the mixture is creamy.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix to ensure a soft cookie texture.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread during baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies have set. Let them cool on a wire rack.

Step 9: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the cookies are still warm, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each cookie in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Dough: If you prefer firmer cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cookies soft and tender.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to help with smooth mixing and even texture.
Keep a Close Eye While Baking: Ovens can vary, so start checking the cookies around 12 minutes to prevent overbaking.

How to Serve

These cookies are best enjoyed warm, just after coating with cinnamon sugar. Pair them with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or hot cocoa for an added touch of comfort. For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle them with a cream cheese glaze after coating them with cinnamon sugar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They will stay soft and delicious for a few days, though they are best when fresh.

Freezing

To freeze these cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to get them soft and warm again.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter, though the flavor may slightly differ.

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

Yes, a hand mixer works fine for this recipe. Just make sure the butter and sugars are well combined.

3. Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

You can use mascarpone cheese as a substitute for a slightly different flavor.

4. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and set in the middle.

5. Can I add nuts to the dough?

Yes, feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

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

7. How do I make the cookies less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or the cinnamon-sugar mixture to make them less sweet.

8. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, freeze the dough in a log shape or scoop it into balls and freeze for later baking.

9. Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?

Yes, adjust the size of the dough scoops to make smaller or larger cookies. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.

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

Chill the dough before baking to prevent excessive spreading.

Conclusion

These Irresistible Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar are the perfect combination of two beloved treats—churros and cheesecake. With their soft, chewy texture and warm cinnamon-sugar coating, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or store them for later, these cookies are always a delightful treat. Try them today and enjoy a little indulgence in every bite!