Description
Best Simple Churro Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar inspired by churros. Featuring a buttery golden crust and a velvety smooth filling topped with cinnamon sugar, these bars are easy to make, kid-approved, and perfect for parties, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a delicious, indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine the all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until a crumbly mixture forms. Press this mixture evenly into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan to create a solid, buttery base. Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes until set and golden.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract and mix gently until fully combined and velvety. Be careful not to overmix to avoid cracks in the cheesecake.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: While bars are still warm, sprinkle a mixture of 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon generously over the top. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes to let the topping set.
- Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Remove bars when edges are set and center slightly wobbly to prevent overbaking and cracks.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best churro flavor.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper with overhang for easy removal.
- Proper chilling enhances texture and makes slicing easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg