Simple Churro Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

This Simple Churro Cheesecake combines the beloved flavors of cinnamon and sugar with creamy cheesecake for a delightful dessert. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a smooth, spiced filling, it’s an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free cookies for gluten-free option)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar blend
• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened (or dairy-free cream cheese for vegan version)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Cinnamon sugar blend for sprinkling on top
• Optional: melted chocolate drizzle, caramel sauce, powdered sugar (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Crush the graham crackers or chosen cookies into fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar blend. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create the crust. Chill the crust while you prepare the filling to help it set and keep it crunchy.
2. Step 2: In a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue mixing. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and gently fold in the ground cinnamon without overmixing to keep the texture light and creamy.
3. Step 3: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar blend on top to capture the churro flavor. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
4. Step 4: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free option, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies for the crust.
• Try adding a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence before serving.
• Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
• To avoid cracks, avoid overmixing and do not fully set the center when baking.

Storage

Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat is not recommended as it can affect the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake actually benefits from being made ahead. Refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors develop and the texture firm up for the best taste and presentation.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter and bake until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Cooling gradually and chilling thoroughly also helps maintain a smooth surface.

Simple Churro Cheesecake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 149 reviews

This Simple Churro Cheesecake combines the classic creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm, cinnamon-sugar flavors of churros. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a smooth, cinnamon-infused cream cheese filling, it’s a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Topped with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and optional drizzles of chocolate or caramel, this cheesecake balances sweetness and spice beautifully.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free cookies for gluten-free option)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar blend

Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened (or dairy-free cream cheese for vegan version)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Topping

• Cinnamon sugar blend for sprinkling on top
• Optional: melted chocolate drizzle, caramel sauce, powdered sugar (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Crush the graham crackers or your chosen biscuit into fine crumbs. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of cinnamon sugar blend. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling to help it set for a crunchy base.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix well. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition just until combined to maintain a light texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and gently fold in the ground cinnamon, being careful not to overmix to avoid cracking or making the cheesecake dense.
3. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon sugar blend over the surface to mimic the signature churro flavor. Bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
4. Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the texture solidify. Optionally garnish with melted chocolate drizzle, caramel sauce, or powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies.
• Use dairy-free cream cheese to make the cheesecake vegan.
• Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracking during baking.
• Ensure the cheesecake cools fully before refrigerating for optimal texture.
• Chilling the crust before adding the filling helps maintain a crisp base.
• Adjust the cinnamon sugar sprinkle according to your taste preference.

Keywords: churro cheesecake, cinnamon cheesecake, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, cinnamon sugar dessert, easy cheesecake recipe, baked cheesecake