These Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars blend the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet, spicy crunch of a churro. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, and a cinnamon-sugar topping, this irresistible dessert is easy to make and perfect for parties, holidays, or any sweet craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Churro + Cheesecake Fusion: Two beloved desserts in one irresistible bar.
Simple to Make: No fancy equipment required—just mix, layer, and bake.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, birthdays, or make-ahead treats.
Gooey, Creamy & Crisp: Each bite delivers crunch, creaminess, and warm cinnamon sugar flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs – Provides a buttery, crunchy base for the bars.
4 tbsp melted butter – Binds the crumbs and gives a rich flavor.
¼ cup sugar – Sweetens the crust.
1 tsp cinnamon – Adds that signature churro warmth to the base.

Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy star of the dessert.
1 cup sugar – Sweetens the filling.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and complements the cinnamon.
2 large eggs – Adds structure and silkiness to the cheesecake layer.

Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

¼ cup sugar – Creates the sweet crusty top.
2 tsp cinnamon – Delivers the classic churro flavor.

Tips and Tricks:

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
Don’t Overbake: Bars should still have a slight jiggle in the center when done.
Chill for Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for perfect slices.
Use a Food Processor for Crust: Speeds up prep and ensures fine crumbs.

Variations and Customizations:

Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter.
Snickerdoodle Style: Use crushed snickerdoodle cookies in place of graham crackers for the crust.
Caramel Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.
Low Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol for a reduced-sugar option.

Pairing Suggestions:

Drinks:
- Iced coffee or cinnamon latte
- Chai tea
- Cold milk or vanilla almond milk
Other Desserts:
- Pair with vanilla bean ice cream
- Serve alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerator: Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze bars (cut or whole) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Make Ahead: Bake and refrigerate a day in advance for easy entertaining.

Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

A creamy vanilla cheesecake layer on a buttery graham crust, topped with crunchy cinnamon-sugar for the ultimate churro-inspired treat! Easy & irresistible

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Use the back of a spoon or your hands to compact it firmly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
Add vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust and smooth out the top.
In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup sugar with 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the cheesecake layer.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.
Remove from oven and allow to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.

Step 6: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to fully set.
Slice into bars and serve chilled for best texture.

Notes

For an even stronger churro vibe, brush melted butter on top after baking and sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar.
Let the bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American