If you have a soft spot for desserts that blend warm spices with creamy textures, you are in for a treat with this Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Combining the crunchy cinnamon-graham crust with a luscious cheesecake center and topped off by a perfect cinnamon sugar sprinkle, these bars deliver the nostalgic flavor of churros in a delightful, sliceable form. They’re the ideal mix of crispy, creamy, and cinnamon-spiced sweetness that’s irresistibly comforting and great for sharing with friends or family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet purposeful ingredients is key to nailing this Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the buttery graham cracker crust that provides structure and flavor, to the rich cream cheese filling that’s velvety smooth, and finally the cinnamon sugar topping for that iconic churro crunch. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: The base that gives these bars their crunchy, slightly sweet foundation.
- 4 tbsp melted butter: Binds the crust crumbs together and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the crust while balancing the cinnamon scent.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Gives the crust a warm, spicy note that hints at churros.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the cheesecake that’s essential for smoothness.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements cinnamon beautifully.
- 2 large eggs: Helps set the cheesecake filling to the perfect firm but creamy consistency.
- 1/4 cup sugar: For the topping — mixed with cinnamon to mimic classic churro sugar.
- 2 tsp cinnamon: Sprinkled generously on top for that crispy cinnamon sugar finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. This mixture has to be combined well to ensure every bite delivers that irresistible cinnamon flavor. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of your baking dish—this will form the solid, crunchy base layer for your cheesecake bars, so don’t be shy about packing it down well.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Next, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Add your sugar and vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one at a time while mixing gently. Be careful not to overmix here to prevent any cracks after baking. Pour this heavenly filling over the prepared crust and spread it into an even layer, setting the stage for that signature creamy cheesecake texture.
Step 3: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Now for the fun part—sprinkle the topping made from 1/4 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon generously all over the cheesecake filling. This topping is what turns these bars into a perfect homage to churros, giving them that delightful crispy, sweet cinnamon sugar crunch once baked.
Step 4: Bake and Chill
Bake your assembled bars until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly, usually about 40 to 45 minutes. After baking, allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to help the cheesecake firm up so you can cut clean, neat bars ready to impress.
How to Serve Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your serving by dusting extra cinnamon sugar on top or adding a light drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce to echo the churro vibe. A dollop of whipped cream on the side is always welcome, providing a fluffy contrast to the rich cheesecake texture.
Side Dishes
These bars pair beautifully with fresh fruit like berries or a small bowl of vanilla ice cream. The refreshing fruit and cold creaminess of ice cream create a perfect harmony with the warm cinnamon flavors in these cheesecake bars.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the bars in a rustic wooden box lined with parchment paper to create an inviting, homey feel ideal for sharing. Or, cut them into bite-sized squares and place on a tiered dessert tray, making them the star appetizer at any brunch or gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weekdays or last-minute guests.
Freezing
If you want to keep these bars longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Properly frozen, they will maintain their decadent flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
For best enjoyment, serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm bite, reheat gently in the oven at low heat for just a few minutes to avoid melting the cheesecake filling.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs perfectly mimic churro flavors, crushed cinnamon cookies or even digestive biscuits can be wonderful alternatives that keep the cinnamon theme intact.
Do I need to use full-fat cream cheese?
Yes, full-fat cream cheese yields a richer, creamier texture essential to cheesecake bars. Low-fat versions may result in a less smooth filling.
How do I prevent cracks on top of my cheesecake bars?
Mix your batter gently to avoid incorporating too much air and bake at a steady temperature. Cooling the bars gradually and chilling thoroughly also helps keep the surface smooth.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free graham crackers or cinnamon cookies to make the crust, and the rest of the recipe stays naturally gluten-free.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Chill the cheesecake bars well and use a sharp knife warmed slightly under hot water, then wiped dry for smooth, clean slices without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite dessert staples. Its incredible balance of cinnamon, creamy cheesecake, and crispy crust makes every bite a small celebration. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, these bars are a soulful twist on a classic flavor combo that’s both nostalgic and delightfully fresh. Give them a go—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars featuring a crispy cinnamon-speckled graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet cinnamon sugar topping. These bars combine the warm flavors of churros with the rich texture of classic cheesecake, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a unique treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a baking dish to form a solid crust layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, then vanilla extract and eggs. Mix gently until fully combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain a creamy texture.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust in the baking dish, smoothing the surface.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the top of the cheesecake layer to create a sweet, spiced topping reminiscent of churros.
- Bake: Bake the assembled pan in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 30 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up and develop flavor.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut into bars and serve. For best results, ensure the cream cheese was softened before mixing and that the bars are thoroughly chilled to achieve clean slices.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth filling.
- Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together well when cut.
- Do not overmix the filling to prevent cracks during baking.
- Chill bars for at least 2 hours before serving to set the cheesecake properly.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
