Introduction
Cream Cheese Churro Cookies are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats: churros and cookies. These delectable cookies are soft and chewy on the inside with a creamy center and a crispy, cinnamon-sugar coating on the outside. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as an indulgent snack.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and cinnamon with the comforting texture of homemade cookies. The dough is simple to prepare and the cream cheese filling adds a delicious surprise with every bite. Coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, these cookies mimic the flavors of traditional churros, offering a delightful twist on a classic treat.
History and Origin
The inspiration for Cream Cheese Churro Cookies comes from the traditional Spanish and Mexican churros, which are deep-fried dough pastries typically coated in cinnamon and sugar. Churros have been enjoyed for centuries and are often served with chocolate or caramel dipping sauces. This recipe takes the concept of churros and transforms it into a cookie, making it easier to bake at home while still enjoying the familiar cinnamon-sugar flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Prepare the Filling:
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cookies:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon for the coating.
- Form Cookies: Take a small amount of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it in your palm. Place a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center and fold the dough over the filling, rolling it into a ball.
- Coat Cookies: Roll the filled dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. Place the cookie on the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Bake the Cookies:
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
These cookies are best enjoyed when they are slightly warm, allowing the cream cheese center to be soft and creamy. They can be served as a delightful dessert, a sweet snack with coffee or tea, or even as part of a festive cookie platter during the holidays.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Beverages: Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. They also go well with hot chocolate, especially for a cozy winter treat.
- Dessert Spread: Include these cookies in a dessert spread with other baked goods like brownies, cupcakes, and pastries.
- Ice Cream: Serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Variations of the Recipe
- Chocolate Churro Cookies: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Spiced Churro Cookies: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg and a dash of ground cloves into the dough for a spicier flavor.
- Fruit-Filled Churro Cookies: Mix a few tablespoons of fruit jam or preserves into the cream cheese filling for a fruity surprise.
Health Benefits Notes
While these cookies are an indulgent treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Cream cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, while cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Using unsalted butter helps control the sodium content, and the recipe can be modified to include whole wheat flour for added fiber.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling? A: Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese to reduce the calorie and fat content of the cookies.
Q: How should I store these cookies? A: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking the cookies.
Q: What if I don’t have parchment paper? A: If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Churro Cookies are a delicious and unique twist on traditional churros, offering the perfect combination of creamy, chewy, and crispy textures. With their delightful cinnamon-sugar coating and surprise cream cheese filling, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they are a must-try recipe for any dessert lover. Enjoy these cookies as a special treat and explore the various ways to customize them to suit your taste preferences