Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars

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Looking for the ultimate fall dessert that blends creamy cheesecake, warm pumpkin spice, and a buttery churro crust? These Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars deliver everything you crave in a cozy seasonal treat. Perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or just a weekend indulgence, these bars are rich, spiced, and irresistibly delicious. With a golden graham crust, velvety pumpkin cheesecake, and a drizzle of caramel, every bite is packed with indulgent flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Combines the flavors of churros, pumpkin pie, and cheesecake in one dessert.

• Perfect for entertaining guests or holiday potlucks.

• No need for a water bath – just simple baking in a square pan.

Ingredients Breakdown:

Churro Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – Forms the base with a buttery crunch.

• 1 cup crushed cinnamon sugar graham crackers – Adds warm churro flavor.

• 1/4 cup melted butter – Binds the crumbs and enhances richness.

• 2 tbsp cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling) – Gives a churro-like finish after baking.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy foundation of the cheesecake.

• 1 cup pumpkin puree – Adds moisture and classic fall flavor.

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar + 1/2 cup brown sugar – Balances sweetness with a touch of molasses depth.

• 2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the warm spice profile.

• 2 large eggs – Provides structure to the cheesecake.

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ginger – Classic pumpkin pie spices.

• 1 tbsp flour – Stabilizes the cheesecake for slicing.

Cinnamon Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream – Whips into a fluffy topping.

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream.

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon – Infuses warmth and flavor.

Caramel Drizzle:

• 1/4 cup caramel sauce – Adds a rich, buttery finish to each bar.

Tips and Tricks:

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth and lump-free filling.

• Do Not Overmix: Incorporating too much air can cause cracks in the cheesecake.

• Use a Sharp Knife: Clean the blade between cuts for neat, clean slices.

• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerating overnight results in the best texture and flavor.

Variations and Customizations:

• Crust Swap: Use crushed Biscoff cookies or gingersnaps for a deeper spice flavor.

• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.

• Mini Cheesecake Bites: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized portions.

• Maple Glaze: Replace caramel with a homemade maple glaze for a festive twist.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Serve With: Hot apple cider, pumpkin spice latte, or black coffee.

• Top With: A dusting of cinnamon or shaved white chocolate.

• Complementary Desserts: Pair with apple crisp or pecan pie for a holiday dessert table.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

• Make Ahead: Prepare a day in advance and garnish just before serving.

Popular Questions:

Can I make this recipe without cinnamon sugar graham crackers?

Yes, use regular graham crackers and add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 tablespoon sugar to the crust mixture.

How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?

The center should be set but slightly jiggly when shaken gently. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I use canned whipped cream?

For best flavor and stability, homemade cinnamon whipped cream is recommended, but canned works in a pinch.

Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture, but you can use low-fat if needed. Avoid fat-free versions.

Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars – A delicious mix of spiced pumpkin pie, creamy cheesecake, and crispy churro crust, topped with cinnamon whipped cream and caramel drizzle. Perfect for fall!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 1 cup crushed cinnamon sugar graham crackers

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling)

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Churro Crust

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, crushed cinnamon sugar grahams, and melted butter. Stir until evenly moistened.

• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.

• Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.

2. Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

• Add pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and spices. Mix until fully blended.

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next.

• Stir in the flour until smooth.

• Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake Bars

• Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).

• Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center is just set and no longer jiggles.

• Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.

• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.

4. Make the Cinnamon Whipped Cream

• In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and cinnamon until stiff peaks form.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Slice chilled cheesecake into bars.

• Top each bar with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream.

• Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

Notes

These Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars are the perfect fusion of classic fall flavors and rich, creamy cheesecake. They’re a crowd-pleaser at every gathering and elevate your dessert table with minimal effort. Make them ahead of time and savor the cozy combination of cinnamon, pumpkin, and sweet caramel in every bite.

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• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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