These Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of two favorite desserts: creamy cheesecake and crispy churros. With a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and offer a delicious twist on a classic treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars combine the best of both worlds: the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake and the sweet, spiced crunch of churros. The graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the rich, smooth cheesecake filling. The cinnamon sugar topping is the cherry on top, giving each bite a warm, cinnamon-sugar flavor reminiscent of churros. With just 45 minutes to make, this dessert is an easy and delicious way to treat yourself and your loved ones.
Ingredients
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1 package graham crackers (crushed)
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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1 tablespoon cinnamon
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup cinnamon sugar
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and cinnamon to form the crust. Press the mixture into the bottom of a baking dish to create an even layer.
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In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
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Pour the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheesecake is set.
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Once cooled, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top of the cheesecake.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars and serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
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Extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar topping for a spiced twist.
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Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an added indulgent touch.
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Fruit topping: Add fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
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Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or an alternative crust made from almond flour for a gluten-free version of these bars.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften slightly.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with cookies like digestive biscuits or even crushed shortbread for a different flavor.
2. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake is done when it’s set and no longer wobbly in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These cheesecake bars actually taste better after they’ve had time to chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
4. Can I use a different cheese for the filling?
Cream cheese is the best option for this recipe, but you could experiment with mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different texture and flavor.
5. How long do these bars need to refrigerate?
Allow the bars to refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to ensure the cheesecake is fully set.
6. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
7. Can I skip the cinnamon sugar topping?
The cinnamon sugar topping is what gives these bars their churro-inspired flavor, but if you prefer a less sweet option, you can leave it off and enjoy them as creamy cheesecake bars.
8. Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, but keep in mind that the baking time might increase slightly.
9. What can I serve these bars with?
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
10. Can I add nuts to the crust?
Absolutely! You can add crushed pecans or almonds to the graham cracker crust for extra crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With their creamy cheesecake base, crunchy graham cracker crust, and cinnamon-sugar topping, they offer a unique twist on a classic dessert that will have everyone coming back for more. Quick to make and easy to share, these bars are a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings with every bite!
Print
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars! Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the crispy, cinnamon-sugar coating of churros, these bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet, velvety filling. With just 45 minutes of preparation, this easy dessert is perfect for sharing and will satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients
1 package graham crackers (crushed)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup cinnamon sugar
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and cinnamon to form the crust. Press the mixture into the bottom of a baking dish to create an even layer.
-
In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
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Pour the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and no longer wobbly in the center.
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Once cooled, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top of the cheesecake.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars and serving.
Notes
-
Extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar topping for a spiced twist.
-
Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra indulgent touch.
-
Fruit topping: Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheesecake.
-
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or an almond flour crust for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American/Mexican Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
