If you’ve ever dreamed of blending the warmth of cinnamon sugar with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, this Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake is the dessert of your dreams. It’s a perfect marriage of two comfort food classics—fluffy churros and velvety cheesecake—baked to golden perfection. Each bite melts in your mouth with layers of cinnamon-kissed sweetness, buttery graham crust, and silky cream cheese filling. The aroma alone fills your kitchen with bakery-level warmth, turning any evening into a cozy family celebration.
This churro cheesecake recipe is perfect for anyone who loves simple family recipes, budget-friendly desserts, or easy comfort food ideas that taste like they came from a bakery. Whether you’re making it for a weekend dinner, holiday party, or potluck, this dessert delivers indulgence without the stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients, bakery-level flavor: No fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients required.
Perfect texture: Creamy, rich cheesecake meets the sweet crunch of a churro topping.
Budget-friendly dessert: Made with pantry staples like sugar, butter, and cinnamon.
Family-approved comfort food: Everyone loves the nostalgic flavor of cinnamon and cream cheese.
Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better chilled overnight, ideal for parties or meal prep.
Customizable: Easy to adjust the sweetness, spice, or toppings to suit any taste.

Ingredient Breakdown:

For the Crust

Graham Cracker Crumbs (1½ cups): The perfect base for this cheesecake—sweet, crunchy, and buttery. They soak up melted butter beautifully, creating that classic golden crust.
Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Adds a touch of sweetness and helps the crust caramelize during baking.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Brings in the signature churro flavor right from the start.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Binds the crumbs together and provides rich, buttery flavor for a sturdy crust.

For the Cheesecake Filling

Cream Cheese (24 oz, softened): The heart of the recipe—smooth, creamy, and tangy. Use full-fat for the richest texture.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Balances the tang of the cream cheese and enhances overall sweetness.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Deepens flavor and adds warm, aromatic notes.
Large Eggs (4): Provide structure and give the cheesecake its silky, custard-like texture.
Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and prevents the cheesecake from becoming too dense.
All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup): A small amount helps stabilize the filling, preventing cracking.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Infuses warmth and spice throughout the cheesecake layer.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): A sweet finishing touch that caramelizes slightly as it sets.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Classic churro flavor that makes this cheesecake unforgettable.

Pro Tips:

Always start with room-temperature ingredients—cold cream cheese can cause lumps and uneven mixing.
Use a water bath (optional but recommended) to ensure even baking and a crack-free top.
Don’t overbeat the batter; it can trap air and lead to cracks during baking.
Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open—this prevents sudden temperature shock.
Chill overnight for best results—it allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to firm up beautifully.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make this dessert completely gluten-free.
Chocolate Twist: Replace half of the graham crackers with crushed chocolate cookies for a rich cocoa base.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a Mexican-inspired heat contrast.
Caramel Drizzle: Top with warm caramel sauce before serving for a dulce de leche-style finish.
Mini Cheesecakes: Pour batter into muffin tins for individual servings—perfect for parties or portion control.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Dessert: Serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Breakfast Treat: Enjoy a slice with a hot latte or cinnamon-spiced coffee.
Party-Perfect: Cut into bite-sized squares and serve on dessert platters for events.
Pair with Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches add a refreshing contrast.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Bake the cheesecake a day before serving and let it chill overnight. The flavor improves as it rests.
Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Meal Prep Hack: Pre-slice and pack portions for an easy dessert addition to your weekly meal prep.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Churros originated in Spain and became a beloved treat across Latin America, often coated in cinnamon sugar and served with chocolate. This recipe reimagines the churro’s warm, crunchy sweetness in cheesecake form—a nod to traditional Spanish-inspired desserts and American comfort food classics. It’s a cultural fusion that celebrates indulgence with a modern twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this churro cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually best when made a day ahead. The overnight chill helps it firm up and enhances flavor.

Can I use a premade crust?
You can, but the homemade graham crust with cinnamon adds unbeatable texture and flavor.

How can I make this recipe lighter?
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream, and reduce the sugar slightly. It still delivers creamy, rich flavor.

Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overmixing, skipping the water bath, or cooling too quickly can cause cracks. Follow the slow-cooling method for best results.

Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Try caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, or cinnamon whipped cream for extra flair.

Sarah namedy