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Cozy Churro Cheesecake Bars

churro cheesecake bars - featured image

These cozy churro cheesecake bars feature a cinnamon sugar crust with a creamy cheesecake filling, delivering a comforting and nostalgic dessert perfect for sharing or indulging solo.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 34 tbsp cold water
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/3 cup sugar, 2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or two knives until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add 3 tablespoons of cold water, mixing gently until the dough holds together when pressed; add the extra tablespoon if needed. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: While the dough chills, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and continue beating until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 cup sour cream until just smooth. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks during baking.
  3. Preheat and Assemble: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dough from the fridge and press it evenly into the bottom of your greased 8×8-inch pan, pressing it up the sides slightly to create a border. Sprinkle 2 tbsp sugar mixed with 1 tsp cinnamon evenly over the crust.
  4. Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan.
  5. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
  6. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry to slice into 9 bars.

Notes

Keep cream cheese at room temperature to avoid lumps. Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks. Chill the crust dough to ensure flakiness. Use a water bath for extra creaminess if desired. Tent with foil if crust edges brown too quickly. Warm knife before slicing for clean cuts.

Nutrition

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