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Crispy Churro Cheesecake Bars Easy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

crispy churro cheesecake bars - featured image

These crispy churro cheesecake bars feature a buttery, cinnamon-infused crust with a smooth, luscious cheesecake layer topped with a classic cinnamon sugar dusting, creating a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Additional 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened (full fat)
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact it well.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides as needed.
  5. Gradually add ⅔ cup sugar, then beat until fully incorporated and fluffy.
  6. Add eggs individually, mixing well after each to avoid lumps.
  7. Beat in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined and smooth.
  8. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and spread evenly using a spatula.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
  10. While baking, mix 2 tbsp sugar with 1 tsp cinnamon in a small bowl for the topping.
  11. Remove bars from oven and immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the hot cheesecake surface.
  12. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes to crisp up the topping.
  13. Cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set.
  14. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan and cut into 12 squares. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to avoid lumps. Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks. Add the cinnamon sugar topping immediately after the first bake and return to oven to get the signature churro crunch. Tent with foil if crust browns too quickly. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour for graham cracker crumbs. For vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese, butter substitutes, and flax eggs.

Nutrition

Keywords: churro cheesecake bars, cinnamon sugar dessert, cheesecake bars, crispy cheesecake, easy dessert, homemade churros, cinnamon sugar topping