There are few dessert combinations that make my heart sing quite like my Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars. The first time I created these magnificent treats, blending the warm, spicy comfort of traditional churros with the cool, velvety decadence of classic cheesecake, I knew I’d stumbled upon something extraordinary. What makes these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars truly special is the captivating contrast of textures—a crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated crust giving way to a silky-smooth cheesecake center, finished with another layer of crunchy churro topping. When you pull these bars from the oven, the aroma that fills your kitchen is nothing short of magical—warm cinnamon mingling with buttery sweetness and rich vanilla, transforming your home into the world’s most inviting bakery. Keep reading to discover how these indulgent bars can become your new signature dessert, equally perfect for special occasions and satisfying those everyday sweet cravings.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
If you’ve ever struggled with making traditional churros—dealing with hot oil, specialized piping equipment, and the disappointment of soggy results—these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars solve all those problems while delivering that authentic churro flavor in a much more approachable format. I first brought these bars to my sister’s holiday gathering where several guests claimed they “didn’t like cheesecake.” By evening’s end, not only had the entire pan disappeared, but I had seven requests for the recipe and even my skeptical brother-in-law asked if I could make them for his birthday!
What makes these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars truly versatile is their adaptability. They’re elegant enough for dinner parties when plated with a drizzle of caramel and a dollop of whipped cream, yet sturdy enough for lunchboxes or picnics. You can easily adjust the cinnamon levels, add chocolate elements, or even incorporate seasonal fruits into the cheesecake layer to match your preferences or the occasion. Now let’s explore exactly what you’ll need to bring these magnificent bars to life in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Perfect Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
For the Churro Crust and Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and the authentic churro base. For a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend containing xanthan gum.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create the characteristic churro texture. Raw cane sugar can be substituted for a slightly caramel-like flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The signature flavor for authentic churros. Use high-quality Ceylon cinnamon for a more delicate, complex flavor compared to standard cassia cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor development. Fine sea salt works best here.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Creates the perfect flaky texture in the crust. For a dairy-free option, use cold coconut oil, though this will slightly alter the flavor.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the dough and provides richness. A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) can be substituted for an egg-free version.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the warm flavors of the crust. Use real vanilla extract rather than imitation for best results.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Creates the signature sparkly exterior of traditional churros. Coconut sugar can be used for a more caramel-like flavor and amber color.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – Provides the classic churro flavor and aroma. Adjust according to your preference for cinnamon intensity.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature – The foundation of the creamy filling. Full-fat provides the best texture, but reduced-fat can work if necessary. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cream cheese, but be aware the texture will be slightly different.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the cream cheese. Can reduce to 3/4 cup if you prefer a less sweet filling.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature – Provides structure and richness to the filling. Room temperature eggs incorporate more easily and create a smoother texture.
- 1/4 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and helps create that velvety cheesecake texture. Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute with added protein.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps prevent cracking and gives the cheesecake a more stable texture. Cornstarch can be substituted for a gluten-free option.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the creamy flavor and complements the cinnamon. Use pure vanilla for best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Ties the filling flavors to the churro elements. This can be adjusted based on your preference.
For the Optional Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche or caramel sauce – Adds a luxurious finish reminiscent of churros dipped in caramel. Store-bought works well, or make your own for an extra-special touch.
How to Make Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Preparing the Churro Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal. This overhang will serve as handles later when removing the bars.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, combining the flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the cinnamon throughout the mixture. The mixture should appear uniform in color with no streaks of cinnamon.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pieces no larger than peas. This creates the perfect flaky texture. If the butter starts to soften, place the bowl in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes before continuing.
- Add the egg and vanilla to the mixture and stir until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix or your crust will become tough. The dough should hold together when pressed between your fingers but still appear somewhat crumbly.
- Divide the dough by removing one-third of the mixture and setting it aside for the topping. Press the remaining two-thirds firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even layer. A flat-bottomed measuring cup works perfectly for creating a smooth, even surface.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until just set but not browned. The edges may begin to turn slightly golden, but the center should still be pale. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly while preparing the filling. Keep the oven on.
Preparing the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl using an electric mixer until completely smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure no lumps remain. The cream cheese should be completely smooth and somewhat fluffy.
- Add the sugar gradually while continuing to beat on medium speed until well combined and creamy, about 1-2 minutes more. The mixture should appear lighter in both color and texture.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl. Mix just until each egg is incorporated. Overmixing at this stage can incorporate too much air and cause cracking.
- Mix in the sour cream, flour, vanilla, and cinnamon on low speed until just combined. The mixture should be smooth, creamy, and have a uniform light tan color from the cinnamon.
- Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly to the edges. Tap the pan gently on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter.
Creating the Churro Topping:
- Mix the cinnamon sugar coating by combining 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon in a small bowl until well blended. The mixture should have a uniform brown color.
- Add half of this cinnamon-sugar mixture to the reserved dough and mix until incorporated. The dough will become more fragrant and take on a deeper brown color.
- Crumble the topping evenly over the cheesecake filling, creating pieces of various sizes for texture contrast. Some areas can have more coverage than others for a rustic look, but aim for relatively even distribution.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar over the entire surface, focusing particularly on areas with less crumble topping. This creates the characteristic sweet, spicy crust of a churro.
Baking and Finishing:
- Bake the bars for 35-40 minutes until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. The edges will be more set than the center, and the topping will be golden brown. An over-baked cheesecake will crack and have a less creamy texture.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. As the bars cool, the center will continue to set and achieve the perfect texture.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly. The bars will be easier to cut cleanly when thoroughly chilled.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the entire dessert out of the pan and onto a cutting board. With a sharp knife, cut into 16-20 bars, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat edges.
- Drizzle with optional caramel just before serving, if desired. The caramel should be at room temperature but still pourable for the perfect consistency.
Creative Variations of Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Chocolate Churro Cheesecake Bars
Transform your Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars into a chocolate lover’s dream by adding 1/3 cup cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling and folding in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips. Replace the caramel drizzle with melted dark chocolate. The combination of cinnamon and chocolate recalls the traditional Mexican pairing found in many authentic churro shops.
Apple Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Create an autumnal twist by folding 1 cup of finely diced, sautéed apples (cooled completely) into the cheesecake batter. Add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and 1/8 teaspoon of cloves to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a warm spice profile reminiscent of apple pie. A drizzle of apple cider caramel sauce completes this seasonal sensation.
Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars
Perfect for fall gatherings, substitute 1 cup of pumpkin purée for one package of cream cheese and add 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the filling. Reduce the sour cream to 2 tablespoons to maintain the proper consistency. The earthy pumpkin flavor pairs beautifully with the cinnamon churro elements for a festive seasonal treat.
Lemon Churro Cheesecake Bars
For a refreshing twist, add the zest and juice of two lemons to the cheesecake filling. Reduce the cinnamon in the filling to 1/4 teaspoon and add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the crumble topping. Skip the caramel drizzle and instead dust with powdered sugar for a bright, citrusy version that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Mini Churro Cheesecake Cups
Transform the presentation by preparing the recipe in a muffin tin lined with paper liners. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of each cup, add filling, and top with crumble. Reduce baking time to about 20-25 minutes. Once cooled, dust with cinnamon sugar and add a small dollop of whipped cream for elegant individual servings perfect for parties.
Churro Cheesecake Ice Cream Bars
For a frozen treat, prepare and bake the bars as directed. Once completely cooled but before refrigerating, cut into bars and insert a popsicle stick into each. Freeze until solid (about 4 hours), then dip each bar halfway into melted chocolate and immediately sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before the chocolate sets. Store in the freezer for a decadent churro-inspired ice cream bar experience.
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the Churro Crust & Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz 3 packages cream cheese, room temp
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs room temp
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Drizzle:
- ½ cup dulce de leche or caramel sauce
Instructions
Prepare Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), line a 9×13″ pan with parchment.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in butter until mixture forms coarse crumbs.
- Stir in egg and vanilla until dough forms.
- Reserve ⅓ of dough; press the rest into the pan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes; cool slightly.
Make Filling
- Beat cream cheese until smooth (2–3 mins).
- Gradually add sugar, beat until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each.
- Mix in sour cream, flour, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Pour over crust, spread evenly.
Add Topping
- Mix cinnamon sugar coating in a small bowl.
- Combine half with reserved dough and crumble over cheesecake layer.
- Sprinkle remaining cinnamon sugar on top.
Bake & Chill
- Bake for 35–40 mins until set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool on a wire rack (2 hours), then chill 3+ hours or overnight.
- Lift with parchment, slice into bars, and drizzle caramel if using.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Best when chilled overnight.
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Variations:
- Chocolate: Add cocoa and mini chips.
- Apple: Mix in sautéed apples + fall spices.
- Pumpkin: Sub 1 pack of cream cheese with pumpkin purée.
- Lemon: Add zest/juice for a springy twist.
- Presentation Ideas: Serve with whipped cream or plated with ice cream.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Can I make these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, these bars benefit from being made in advance. You can prepare them up to three days before serving and store them in the refrigerator, tightly covered. The flavors actually deepen and meld together over time, making them even more delicious. For best results, wait to add any caramel drizzle until just before serving. You can also freeze the undrizzled bars for up to three months – simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
My cheesecake developed cracks while baking. What went wrong?
Cracks usually develop from one of several causes: overmixing the filling (which incorporates too much air), baking at too high a temperature, or overbaking. To prevent cracks, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting, mix just until ingredients are incorporated (especially after adding the eggs), consider using a water bath for gentler baking, and remove the cheesecake from the oven when the center is still slightly jiggly. The good news is that even if cracks develop, they’ll be hidden by the churro topping and won’t affect the delicious taste!
How can I make these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars, substitute the all-purpose flour in both the crust and filling with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Double-check that your vanilla extract and other flavorings are certified gluten-free. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will remain delicious. Some gluten-free flours absorb more moisture than regular flour, so you might need to add an extra tablespoon of butter to the crust mixture if it seems too dry.
Can I reduce the sugar content in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in several ways. For the cheesecake filling, you can decrease the sugar to 2/3 cup without significantly affecting the texture. In the crust and topping, you can reduce the granulated sugar to 1/3 cup, though this will affect the authentic churro flavor somewhat. Consider using a natural sugar substitute designed for baking, such as allulose or monk fruit sweetener, which measure like sugar. However, I don’t recommend completely eliminating the sugar in the cinnamon-sugar coating, as this creates the characteristic churro experience.
How do I know when the cheesecake is perfectly baked?
The perfect doneness for these bars is when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle – similar to the consistency of set gelatin. When you gently shake the pan, the center 2-3 inches should move slightly while the edges remain stable. The top should not be wet or liquid-like but should not be completely firm either. Remember that the bars will continue to set as they cool. If you’re using an instant-read thermometer, the center should register about 150°F (65°C). Overbaking is the most common cause of dry, cracked cheesecake.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of regular cream cheese?
While full-fat cream cheese delivers the best flavor and texture, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese if necessary. However, avoid using non-fat cream cheese, as it contains stabilizers that don’t behave the same way during baking. If using Greek yogurt as a partial substitute, I recommend replacing only one package (8 oz) of the cream cheese with 3/4 cup of full-fat Greek yogurt that has been strained through cheesecloth for several hours to remove excess moisture. This substitution will create a slightly tangier flavor profile but will maintain a creamy texture.
Concluding Thoughts
I’ll never forget bringing these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars to my daughter’s quinceañera celebration, where they bridged generations of our family’s traditions. My abuela, who had always insisted that proper churros required a special technique that couldn’t be replicated in other forms, took one bite and smiled with surprised delight. “Different, yes,” she admitted, “but you’ve captured the soul of churros in a new way.” That moment of connecting traditional flavors with contemporary presentation perfectly encapsulates what makes these bars so special.
What I treasure most about this recipe is how it honors the classic churro experience—that unmistakable cinnamon-sugar crunch giving way to a tender interior—while reimagining it in a form that brings new pleasure. The recipe provides a foundation, but I encourage you to make it your own, perhaps incorporating flavors that hold special meaning for your family or adapting it for the seasons as I’ve suggested.
As you share these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars with friends and family, I hope they create moments of connection around your table just as they have around mine. There’s something magical about offering a familiar flavor in an unexpected form—it creates conversation, evokes memories, and makes space for new traditions. Whether served at a grand celebration or a quiet family dinner, these bars carry both the comfort of tradition and the joy of discovery in every perfectly balanced bite.