Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars are everything you love about churros and cheesecake in a simple, bar-friendly format. The warm spice of cinnamon is layered throughout—from the crust to the sugary topping—while the creamy cheesecake layer provides a smooth, rich contrast. Easy to prepare and even easier to eat, these bars are a guaranteed hit wherever they go!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cheesecake layer (commonly used, assuming standard approach):
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is creamy and well-blended.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and spread it evenly.
- Add topping: In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
Servings and timing
- Servings: About 9–12 bars
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Variations
- Add a caramel drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chilled bars before serving for a sweet twist.
- Crust options: Swap graham crackers for crushed cinnamon toast cereal or vanilla wafers for a different base.
- Spiced cheesecake: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cheesecake layer for a spicier flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. These bars are best served chilled.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?
Yes, store-bought crumbs work great and save time. Just measure out 1 cup for the crust.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld in the fridge.
3. Can I use a different kind of crust?
Yes! Try crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or cinnamon-flavored cereal as an alternative.
4. Can I add toppings to the cheesecake layer?
Yes, you can swirl in some dulce de leche or top with whipped cream or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but the bars may not be as creamy or rich as with full-fat cream cheese.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a 9×13-inch pan and double all the ingredients. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed.
7. Do I need to use a water bath?
No, this recipe is simple and doesn’t require a water bath. Just watch for doneness around the 30-35 minute mark.
8. Can I use pre-mixed cinnamon sugar?
Yes, you can use a store-bought blend or make your own with 1 part cinnamon to 4 parts sugar.
9. How do I know when the cheesecake is set?
The edges should be firm, and the center may have a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.
10. Can I freeze the bars?
Yes! Freeze the fully cooled and sliced bars in a sealed container with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars are a delectable fusion of two dessert favorites. With a spiced graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sugary cinnamon topping, every bite is a sweet, rich indulgence. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for any celebration or simple treat. Make a batch today—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars blend the flavors of classic churros and creamy cheesecake into one irresistible dessert, complete with a cinnamon-sugar topping and spiced graham cracker crust. (Keyword: Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars)
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
4 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the cheesecake layer:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
For the topping:
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well.
-
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Press evenly into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust.
-
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract; mix well. Beat in eggs one at a time until fully blended.
-
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
-
Combine sugar and cinnamon for the topping and sprinkle evenly over the cheesecake layer.
-
Bake for 30–35 minutes until the center is set and edges are golden.
-
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
For added richness, drizzle with caramel after chilling.
Crust variations: try crushed cinnamon cereal or vanilla wafers.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper spiced flavor.
Best served chilled; freezes well for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
