Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

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Golden, fluffy, and dusted with cinnamon sugar, these Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies are what dessert dreams are made of. They marry the nostalgic crunch and warmth of classic churros with a creamy cheesecake filling that oozes with every bite. These donut-shaped treats bring a touch of carnival magic to your kitchen with a sweet surprise at their core.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a weekend bake, or just craving something that feels both familiar and indulgent, these cookies deliver on every level. The texture combination alone—lightly crisp exterior, cloud-soft donut cookie, and that cool, rich filling—is reason enough to make them a staple in your dessert rotation.

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What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Donut Cookies?

The base of these cookies works best with a cake donut-style dough. It’s firm enough to hold shape while baking yet soft and airy for a melt-in-your-mouth bite. A simple mix of butter, sugar, flour, and baking powder provides the right balance, enhanced with a splash of vanilla and tangy cream cheese for extra depth.

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Ingredients for the Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Cream Cheese: The heart of the cheesecake filling, it lends the signature creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet outer layers.

Butter: Adds richness and helps both the dough and the filling stay lusciously smooth and tender.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookie dough and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese. Also used for the churro-style cinnamon coating.

Brown Sugar: Adds a slight caramel depth to the cookie dough.

Eggs: Help bind the dough and give the cookies structure.

Vanilla Extract: Infuses warmth and enhances the flavor of the dough and the filling.

All-Purpose Flour: Forms the body of the dough, giving the cookies their structure.

Baking Powder: Creates lift and a light texture.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Ground Cinnamon: Essential for the churro coating—it brings warmth and spice to every bite.

Powdered Sugar (optional): A light dusting on top adds extra sweetness and a beautiful bakery finish.

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How To Make the Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag or sealable plastic bag and refrigerate while you prepare the dough. Chilling helps it firm up, making assembly easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Cookie Dough

Cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 3: Shape and Fill the Cookies

Divide the dough into small balls and form each into a donut shape, leaving a central hole. Pipe or spoon the chilled cheesecake filling around the ring inside the groove. If needed, gently press another thin layer of dough on top to seal the filling inside.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place the filled cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the tops look set.

Step 5: Add the Churro Topping

While still warm, gently brush each donut cookie with melted butter, then roll or sprinkle them with a cinnamon-sugar mixture. For a finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar if desired.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies

These cookies are a standout dessert best served slightly warm or at room temperature. The cream cheese center softens beautifully, making every bite decadent. Pair them with coffee, spiced tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a full-on indulgent experience.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave (about 10 seconds) to restore that fresh-from-the-oven warmth. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the filling from leaking out during baking?

Make sure the filling is well-chilled and the top layer of dough is sealed around the filling. Pinching the seams helps prevent leaks.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, refrigerated sugar cookie or cake mix dough can be a shortcut. The texture might be slightly different, but it still works well.

Do I need a donut mold to make these?

No mold required! Shaping the dough by hand works just fine. Use a small round cutter or your fingers to form the donut shape.

Can I flavor the cheesecake filling?

Absolutely! Try adding lemon zest, pumpkin spice, or even a bit of cocoa powder for a twist.

Are these best served warm or chilled?

They’re most delicious when warm or at room temperature, as the filling stays creamy and the exterior remains tender.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare and shape them, then chill the unbaked cookies on a tray. Bake fresh when needed for best texture and flavor.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies, you’re going to want to try these other creative and crowd-pleasing bakes:

• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a rich nutty crunch and buttery caramel twist.
• Lemon Churro Cookies if you crave citrusy zing paired with warm spice.
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups for an indulgent mini-dessert experience.
• Brownie Refrigerator Cake if you’re in the mood for fudgy layers with no baking fuss.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for a fruity, tangy twist in a crowd-size format.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or add a twist? Did you chill the filling longer or add chocolate chips?

I love seeing how everyone personalizes these sweet creations. Feel free to ask questions too—we’re all in this baking journey together!

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