If you’re anything like me and adore the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon paired with the creamy lusciousness of cheesecake, then this Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust infused with cinnamon, topped with a silky cream cheese filling, and finished with that irresistible cinnamon sugar sprinkle that churros made famous. These bars are perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make every bite feel like a festive celebration of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a pivotal role in creating the textures and flavors that make these bars truly special. From the crunchy, buttery base to the rich and creamy cheesecake layer, each component is simple yet crucial.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for a crunchy and flavorful crust that adds a great texture contrast.
- 4 tbsp melted butter: Binds the graham cracker crumbs together while adding richness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to complement the filling perfectly.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and the signature churro flavor right in the crust.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the cheesecake layer for that smooth, velvety texture.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling to balance the tang of cream cheese.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor with a delicate, aromatic sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help set the cheesecake filling perfectly.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Used for sprinkling over the top, creating the signature crunchy cinnamon sugar topping.
- 2 tsp cinnamon: Mixed with sugar for that quintessential churro topping that finishes these bars beautifully.
How to Make Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon together in a medium bowl. This mixture forms the base of your bars, so be sure to mix until all the crumbs are evenly coated.
Step 2: Press the Crust Firmly
Transfer the crumb mixture to your baking dish and press it down firmly to create an even, compact crust. This step is important to provide a sturdy base that holds the cheesecake filling without crumbling apart.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing just until combined to avoid over-mixing, which can cause cracks when baking.
Step 4: Pour the Filling Over the Crust
Slowly pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure each bar will have that perfect creamy layer.
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the cheesecake filling to replicate the churro’s classic crunchy, cinnamon sugar finish.
Step 6: Bake and Chill
Bake the bars until the filling is set and the edges have lightly browned. Allow them to cool completely on the countertop before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is crucial for the bars to firm up and slice beautifully.
How to Serve Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce pairs beautifully with these bars for a little extra indulgence. You could also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted cinnamon sticks for a charming presentation.
Side Dishes
These bars shine best on their own or with a cup of strong coffee or hot chocolate. If you want to add some fruit, a fresh berry compote or sliced strawberries provide a bright contrast and keep things fresh and delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares for a party platter. Layer a few bars with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced fruit in clear glasses to create stunning mini parfaits. Their beautiful layers are sure to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They will stay delicious for up to five days, making them perfect for enjoying as a sweet treat throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to preserve these bars for longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to two months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
These cheesecake bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer them slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for this Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic and delicious, you can experiment with crushed digestive biscuits or even cinnamon-spiced cookie crumbs for a unique twist.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese for this recipe?
Leaving the cream cheese out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking usually does the trick. You want it soft but not melted to achieve a smooth cheesecake filling.
Can these bars be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust, you can enjoy these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars without worry.
Why shouldn’t I over-mix the cheesecake filling?
Over-mixing incorporates too much air into the batter, which can cause cracks or a grainy texture after baking. Mix just until smooth and combined for the best results.
How long will these bars keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cheesecake bars will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe — it brings together all the cozy warmth of cinnamon with the rich creaminess of cheesecake in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply because you deserve a sweet afternoon treat, I promise these bars will not disappoint. Grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every warm, cinnamon-sugary bite!
Print
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust infused with cinnamon and a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling. Topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar sprinkle, these bars combine the flavors of classic churros and rich cheesecake into an easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Topping
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the crust mixture: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form the crust layer: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to create a solid crust layer.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to prevent excess air bubbles.
- Assemble cheesecake bars: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Make the cinnamon sugar topping: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup sugar with 2 teaspoons cinnamon. Sprinkle generously over the cheesecake filling.
- Bake the cheesecake bars: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
- Cool and chill: Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to set fully.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut into 12 bars and enjoy the creamy and flavorful Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to achieve a smooth filling.
- Do not overmix cheesecake filling to avoid cracking during baking.
- Chilling the bars completely helps in getting clean and firm slices.
- Use parchment paper in the baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.
- For enhanced churro flavor, use a little extra cinnamon in the topping if desired.
