Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fusion of two beloved treats: crispy, cinnamon-dusted churros and silky smooth cheesecake. Each square delivers a delightful contrast of buttery, flaky layers, creamy vanilla filling, and that classic cinnamon-sugar crunch. Not only are they totally irresistible, but you’ll also be amazed at how easy these are to whip up with just a handful of clever shortcuts. This is a dessert guaranteed to make every gathering feel a little more special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples come together for big flavor in Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars. Each ingredient plays a starring role, whether it’s for the dreamy creaminess, sweet warmth, or never-fail flaky crust that makes these bars such a hit.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The secret shortcut for quick, pillowy layers—no hassle, no fuss!
- Cream cheese: Use full-fat blocks for the creamiest, tangiest filling that holds its shape perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to both the cheesecake layer and that iconic cinnamon sugar topping.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon brings out the best in both the cheesecake and the churro flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter creates that magical, golden “fried” finish, right in the oven.
- Ground cinnamon: The heart of churro flavor—don’t skimp on a good-quality cinnamon for the warmest, most inviting aroma.
How to Make Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Cinnamon Sugar
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the cinnamon. This quick mix is what gives the bars their signature crispy, cinnamon swirl—the kind you can’t wait to sink your teeth into!
Step 2: Create the Churro Crust
Pop open that first can of crescent roll dough, unroll it, and gently press it into your prepared dish, pinching all the seams together. This becomes your base—flaky, buttery, and ready to soak up all the cheesecake goodness coming its way.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Go for a smooth and creamy texture; this luscious filling is what makes Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars the dreamiest dessert on the table.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over your crescent dough base. Next, unroll the second can of dough and gently lay it on top, pinching seams to seal so none of that cheesecake escapes. It’s like tucking in a sweet little blanket.
Step 5: Add Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Brush the top with melted butter, making sure every inch is covered. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture from earlier evenly over the whole surface, for a gorgeous golden crust full of flavor and crunch.
Step 6: Bake and Chill
Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and everything looks set. Let it cool completely, then pop the dish into the fridge for at least an hour. This is what makes the bars firm up for perfectly neat squares—and it’s worth the wait!
How to Serve Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars shine with just a little extra flair. Try a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a pillow of whipped cream on top. For something special, add a few curls of dark chocolate for contrast. The bars are already show-stoppers, but these garnishes turn them into bakery-level treats.
Side Dishes
Serve these luscious bars alongside a fresh fruit salad or berries for a splash of color and tartness to balance the richness. A hot cup of coffee, spicy chai, or even a scoop of ice cream pairs perfectly, making dessert feel more like a celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars into bite-sized squares for party platters, or stack them high on a rustic wooden board for a casual, festive look. For a dessert bar, set out toppings like fruit compotes, chocolate sauce, or even a little bourbon caramel on the side. Kids love dipping them, while adults will swoon over the made-for-sharing vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store them in an airtight container to lock in freshness and prevent them from picking up fridge odors—no one wants cheesecake that tastes like last night’s leftovers!
Freezing
Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars freeze surprisingly well. Place cut bars between layers of parchment in a freezer-safe box; they’ll keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and enjoy the same sweet bite and creamy texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your bars a little warm (especially if serving with ice cream), pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 8-10 minutes or give them a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This revives the cinnamon sugar crunch without turning the filling runny.
FAQs
Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of refrigerated?
Yes! If you’re up for it, homemade dough brings an extra layer of love and a more “from-scratch” feel. Just roll it thin and use the same way as the canned version.
Can I make Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely—to fully set and develop flavor, these bars are even better made the day before. Just wait to garnish until serving for best results.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
For those picture-perfect bars, chill them thoroughly, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. A little patience goes a long way!
Can I add anything into the cheesecake layer?
Totally! Mix in mini chocolate chips, a splash of orange zest, or swirl in a few spoonfuls of dulce de leche for a twist that fits your mood or the season.
Do Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars need to be refrigerated after baking?
Yes, since they’re made with cream cheese, it’s important to store them in the fridge for both safety and texture—plus, they’re super refreshing served chilled.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a treat that’s ridiculously easy yet guaranteed to impress, Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars truly deliver. With their melt-in-your-mouth layers, warm cinnamon aroma, and rich cheesecake filling, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Invite some friends over and let this sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness steal the show!
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Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of churros and cheesecake with these Cinnamon Churro Cheesecake Bars. A perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and cinnamon-spiced flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Dough:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon. Unroll one can of dough into the dish.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla. Spread over the dough.
- Add Top Layer: Unroll second dough can on top, brush with butter, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar.
- Bake and Chill: Bake for 30–35 minutes. Cool, refrigerate for 1 hour, then slice into bars.
Notes
- Drizzle with caramel or serve with whipped cream for an extra touch.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
