Best Simple Churro Cheesecake Bars
Delight in the Best Simple Churro Cheesecake Bars, a luscious dessert that combines a crunchy cinnamon-spiced crust with a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling. These easy-to-make bars capture the essence of classic churros with a perfect cinnamon sugar topping, making them ideal for parties, snacks, or any occasion requiring a sweet treat that’s both rich and textured.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free option available
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Topping
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (mix of cinnamon and sugar)
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, ground cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl, stirring until all ingredients are evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a parchment-lined baking pan to form a sturdy, flavorful crust.
- Mix the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Then incorporate the vanilla extract and a pinch of ground cinnamon, mixing just until combined to keep the filling silky.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust, spreading it gently to create a smooth top. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Add the Churro Topping: While the bars are still warm, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping generously over the surface. Return the pan to the oven or broiler for a few minutes to lightly caramelize the sugar, creating that signature churro crunch.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the filling firm up, making slicing clean and easy.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Do not overmix the filling to avoid cracks and maintain a tender texture.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
- Chill the bars fully in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to help them hold their shape during slicing.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping while the bars are still warm to achieve the best caramelization and churro texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Churro, Cheesecake, Dessert bars, Cinnamon, Easy cheesecake, Party dessert, Gluten-free cheesecake