Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars: A Family Treasure

As a pastry chef who appreciates the magic of family recipes, I can tell you that these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars represent the perfect marriage of classic cheesecake and beloved churros. This recipe brilliantly combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar with the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

Why This Recipe Is Special

The genius of this dessert lies in its layered approach – a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety smooth cheesecake filling, and a crystallized cinnamon-sugar topping that creates the iconic churro experience. Each element works in harmony to create a truly memorable dessert.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (120g)
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted (60g)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened (450g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Detailed Instructions

Preparing the Pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper
3. Allow paper to overhang sides for easy removal

Creating the Perfect Crust

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon
2. Mix until texture resembles wet sand
3. Press firmly into prepared pan
4. Use flat-bottomed glass to compact crust evenly
5. Bake for 8 minutes to set crust
6. Cool while preparing filling

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat cream cheese until completely smooth (about 2 minutes)
2. Gradually add sugar while beating
3. Mix in vanilla extract
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated
5. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks

Assembling and Baking

1. Pour filling over cooled crust
2. Smooth top with spatula
3. Mix sugar and cinnamon for topping
4. Sprinkle evenly over filling
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly

Cooling and Setting

1. Cool completely at room temperature
2. Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours, preferably overnight
3. Use parchment overhang to lift from pan
4. Cut into bars with warm knife

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use room temperature ingredients for smoothest filling
• Don’t overbeat after adding eggs
• Watch for slight jiggle in center when done
• Cool gradually to prevent cracking
• Clean knife between cuts for pristine bars

Nutrition Information

(Per bar – makes 16 bars)

• Calories: 245
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 20g

Storage Instructions

Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 5 days. Can be frozen for up to 2 months when properly wrapped.

Serving Suggestions

I recommend serving these bars:

• Chilled from the refrigerator
• With a drizzle of caramel sauce
• Alongside fresh berries
• With a dollop of whipped cream
• Paired with hot coffee or cold milk

Variations

• Chocolate Crust: Use chocolate graham crackers
• Salted Caramel: Add caramel layer before topping
• Mexican Chocolate: Add pinch of cayenne to topping
• Double Cinnamon: Add extra cinnamon to filling

Make-Ahead Tips

1. Crust can be made 1 day ahead
2. Entire recipe can be made 2-3 days before serving
3. Bars freeze well for up to 2 months
4. Thaw overnight in refrigerator

These Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert – they’re a celebration of family traditions and creative baking. The combination of smooth, creamy cheesecake with the warm, spicy crunch of cinnamon sugar creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a family gathering or shared with friends, these bars are sure to create new memories while honoring cherished family recipes.