If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the warm, spiced crunch of churros with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, you are about to be blown away by this Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on two beloved treats, effortlessly blending cinnamon-sprinkled graham cracker crust with a silky smooth cheesecake center, all topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar that adds the perfect touch of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, these bars are a heavenly, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a breeze, and each plays a key role in delivering that signature flavor and texture. From the crispy cinnamon-infused crust to the creamy cheesecake layer, every component works together to create a perfect harmony of taste.
- Graham crackers (1 package, crushed): The base that provides a crisp, cinnamon-kissed crust, reminiscent of churro’s crunchy exterior.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Binds the crust ingredients together and adds a rich, buttery undertone essential for that golden crust.
- Cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The star spice that infuses both the crust and topping with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Cream cheese (1 cup, softened): The creamy heart of the bars that offers that rich, smooth cheesecake texture.
- Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling to balance the cinnamon’s spice perfectly.
- Eggs (2 large): Provides structure and helps set the cheesecake beautifully while keeping it moist.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle sweetness that enhances all the other flavors.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Boosts creaminess and adds a slight tang, elevating the cheesecake’s depth.
- Cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup): Sprinkled on top for that iconic churro sparkle and extra crispness.
How to Make Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Crust
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go once your batter is mixed. Next, in a bowl, combine your crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and cinnamon. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your baking dish. This creates that delicious churro-like foundation, giving your bars a crisp and flavorful base that will beautifully complement the creamy filling.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Batter
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This step is key to achieving that irresistible cheesecake texture. Make sure everything is well incorporated – no lumps here – so each bite melts in your mouth with that perfect balance of rich and tangy flavors.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over your prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to gently smooth out the top for an even layer. Into the oven it goes for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and no longer wobbly in the center. This baking step locks in the creamy texture while allowing the crust to crisp further, creating a delightful textural contrast.
Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Once your cheesecake bars have cooled down, generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top. This finishing touch not only gives the bars that delightful churro sparkle but also adds a satisfying crunch and extra burst of cinnamon flavor that will make every bite unforgettable.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Pop the bars into the refrigerator for at least two hours before slicing. This chilling time helps the cheesecake set fully and makes cutting easier. When you do slice them into bars, you’ll reveal the beautiful layers and that inviting cinnamon crust, ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To really make your Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars stand out, consider topping them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar also work wonders, adding color and brightness to every serving. It’s like giving your bars a little party outfit before sharing them with friends.
Side Dishes
These bars are wonderfully indulgent on their own, but pairing them with a cup of rich coffee or a glass of cold milk makes the experience even better. For brunch or special occasions, pair them with fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance richness with freshness. It’s a combo that your taste buds will thank you for.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve your Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of cinnamon sugar and chocolate sauce for dipping. Or layer them in parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for an elegant twist. Presentation is half the fun, and these bars are versatile enough to look stunning no matter how you serve them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your bars, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled preserves that creamy, luscious cheesecake texture while maintaining the crispness of the cinnamon crust. Just make sure they are tightly sealed to avoid soaking up any fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these bars ahead of time or save some for later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving – you’ll still get that delightful creamy and crisp contrast every single time.
Reheating
While these bars are best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer to eat them warm, simply heat them gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. This softens the cream cheese just enough to enhance the gooey texture but be careful not to overheat, or you risk melting the beautifully set cheesecake layer.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for the Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust is classic and perfectly complements the cinnamon flavor, you can experiment with crushed digestive biscuits or even cinnamon-sugar coated cookie crumbs to add a unique twist. Just ensure you keep the cinnamon element strong to maintain that churro essence.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or gluten-free graham crackers. The rest of the recipe remains the same, and you’ll still get that delicious cinnamon cheesecake experience without compromise.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?
You can, but keep in mind that full-fat versions provide the best creamy texture and richness essential to this dessert. Using low-fat substitutes might result in a less smooth, slightly drier cheesecake, though it will still taste good.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set and you can give the pan a gentle shake without the center wobbling. The center should have a slight jiggle but not be liquid. Overbaking can make the bars dry, so keep a close eye after the 25-minute mark.
Can I make mini Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake bars instead?
Definitely! Using a mini muffin tin or smaller baking dish lets you create bite-sized treats perfect for parties. Just reduce the baking time slightly and watch for that set texture. These are perfect for sharing and almost disappear faster than the full-size bars!
Final Thoughts
Making the Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe is like bringing a little slice of heaven right into your kitchen, blending comfort and indulgence with each bite. They’re easy to make, delightfully flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients and treat yourself to this amazing dessert experience!
Print
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars combine the beloved flavors of churros with creamy cheesecake in a convenient, handheld dessert. Featuring a cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling, topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar sprinkle, these bars are perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 package graham crackers (crushed)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake bars.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a baking dish to form the crust layer.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared graham cracker crust and smooth the surface using a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set and no longer wobbly in the center when gently shaken.
- Cool and add topping: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the top to mimic that signature churro touch.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours to fully set and enhance flavor. After chilling, slice into bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to prevent lumps in the batter.
- Press the crust firmly into the pan to avoid crumbling when serving.
- Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water to achieve clean slices.
- Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For extra churro flair, drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel before serving.
