Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies Recipe

Welcome to the ultimate dessert fusion: Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies! This innovative recipe brings together the best of four beloved treats churros, cheesecake, donuts, and cookies into one irresistible bite. Imagine a crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie with a soft, donut-like center filled with creamy cheesecake. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these unique cookies are sure to impress.

How to Make This Recipe

Creating these delectable treats involves preparing a cinnamon-infused cookie dough, piping it into a donut shape, and filling it with a luscious cheesecake mixture. The process is simple: mix the ingredients, shape the cookies, add the creamy filling, and bake until golden. 

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter 
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional:

• Melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
2. Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Use a donut-shaped cookie cutter or two round cutters of different sizes to cut out the donut cookies.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Cookies: Place half of the cookie rounds on the baking sheet. Pipe or spoon a small dollop of cheesecake filling onto the center of each cookie, then cover with another cookie round, gently pressing the edges to seal. Optionally, brush the tops with melted butter.
5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Lightly sprinkle the mixture over the assembled cookies, ensuring an even coating.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cookies are lightly golden and the filling is set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.
   

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these churro cheesecake donut cookies as a fun dessert at parties.
• Pair with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a delightful treat.
• Display them on a tiered cake stand for an impressive dessert spread.
• Enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Package them as a homemade gift during festive seasons.

Tips and Variations

• Extra Crispy: For a crunchier texture, bake an extra minute, but be careful not to overbake the cheesecake filling.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cookie dough for a spiced twist.
• Cheesecake Variation: For a tangier filling, use a bit of lemon zest or lemon juice in the cheesecake mixture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with dairy-free margarine, use a vegan egg replacer, and replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese.
• Decoration: Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra decadent presentation.

Preparation Time 

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes 
• Serving Size: Makes about 20 cookies

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 120-140 kcal
• Protein: 2-3g
• Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Fat: 5-6g
• Sugars: 9-10g
• Fiber: 1g

Ingredient Substitutes

• Cream Cheese: Use Neufchatel cheese for a lower-fat alternative.
• Granulated Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like stevia.
• All-Purpose Flour: Replace with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
• Butter: Use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil for a vegan version.
• Vanilla Extract: Swap with almond extract for a different flavor nuance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling ahead, assemble the cookies, and bake them just before serving.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Make sure to seal the edges of the cookies well and avoid overfilling. Chilling the dough before baking can help as well.

Can these cookies be frozen?
Yes, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What if I don't have a donut-shaped cutter?
You can use two different sized round cutters to create a donut shape, or simply cut out circles and leave them as stuffed cookies.

Can I adjust the spice level in the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more or less cinnamon or experiment with other spices to suit your taste.

Conclusion

The Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies offer a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, combining a rich cheesecake filling with a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie shell. Perfect for any occasion, these innovative treats are as fun to make as they are to eat. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create an impressive dessert that’s sure to become a favorite.