Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Create the crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and salt until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased dish.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing each just until combined. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
- Sprinkle the topping: In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon with 1/4 cup of sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheesecake.
- Bake: Set the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature. For best results, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into bars.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Churro Cheesecake Bars can be served in various delightful ways! Consider plating them on a decorative dish, dusting extra cinnamon-sugar on top for presentation, or serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They also pair beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
How to store
To keep your Churro Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to freeze them, wrap the individual bars tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Remember to label your packages for easy reference!
Helpful cooking tips
- Chill your cream cheese: For a smoother filling, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature and well-softened before mixing.
- Do not overmix the eggs: When adding the eggs to the cream cheese mixture, mix just until incorporated to prevent denser bars.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, you can adjust the sugar in both the filling and topping to suit your taste.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize your Churro Cheesecake Bars! Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top for a rich variation, or you could incorporate a hint of orange zest for a refreshing citrus twist. Want to make them healthier? Use Greek yogurt in place of some of the cream cheese, or swap out sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Common questions
What is the prep time for Churro Cheesecake Bars?
The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 40-45 minutes for baking and at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese to reduce the calorie count. However, it may slightly affect the texture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The edges of the bars should be set, while the center will remain slightly jiggly. This ensures a creamy texture after cooling.
These Churro Cheesecake Bars with Cinnamon Sugar are not only easy to make but also a surefire way to wow your friends and family. Enjoy experimenting with this lovely dessert!
