Churro Cheesecake Cinnamon Bars

If you love the cinnamon warmth of churros and the creamy tang of cheesecake, these churro cheesecake bars are about to become your new party favorite. Layers of buttery crescent dough cradle a smooth cheesecake filling, all crowned with a crackly cinnamon sugar crust. Every bite hits that nostalgic churro flavor with the dreamy richness of classic cheesecake in an easy bar form.

I stumbled on this recipe looking for a way to wow my family at our first ever Cinco de Mayo brunch. Since then, it pops up at nearly every family gathering. My kids always race for that golden corner piece.

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough: Two cans give you the signature buttery churro layers Look for dough with minimal additives for best taste
• Granulated sugar: Keeps the bars sweet and perfectly crisp Opt for pure cane sugar for cleanest flavor
• Ground cinnamon: The flavor backbone Use a fresh, aromatic jar(saigon or Ceylon) if you want extra citrusy warmth
• Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on top for rich golden color and crunch Quality butter really makes the cinnamon sugared topping shine
• Cream cheese: Full fat and softened at room temperature for the smoothest filling Always check the expiration date and avoid low quality brands
• Egg: Helps set the cheesecake mixture for creamy but stable bars Use a fresh large egg
• Pure vanilla extract: Lends depth to the filling Real vanilla makes a surprising difference
• If you want a subtle nutmeg note: Add just a pinch to the cinnamon sugar mix
• For a lighter version: Swap in full fat Greek yogurt for some of the cream cheese
• Selecting high quality cream cheese and real vanilla: Brings out the best flavor I learned that lesson the hard way with generic brands

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking pan generously with soft butter or line with parchment paper so the bars lift easily once cooled

Mix Cinnamon Sugar:

Combine half a cup of granulated sugar with two teaspoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl Give it a thorough mix with a fork so the spices are fully distributed and every bite is balanced

Layer Bottom Dough:

Unroll one can of crescent roll dough Gently press it into the bottom of your prepared pan Pinch and seal any seams so the layer is even and intact This creates your churro foundation

Cinnamon Sugar Base:

Sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough Make sure you hit the corners and edges for full flavor coverage

Prepare Cheesecake Filling:

In a large bowl beat softened cream cheese until completely smooth Add sugar egg and vanilla Beat again until creamy and lump free The smoother your filling the silkier the finished bars

Spread Cheesecake Layer:

Carefully spread the cheesecake filling over the cinnamon sugar bottom layer Try to avoid disturbing the base Use a spatula for an even layer right to the sides of the pan

Top with Remaining Dough:

Unroll the second can of crescent dough Lay it gently over the cheesecake layer and press lightly so it covers edge to edge No gaps means every bar will be neat and layered

Butter and Top:

Brush melted butter all across the top layer Take your time to reach every edge Scatter the rest of the cinnamon sugar mix evenly over the buttered dough pressing gently with clean hands for a beautiful sugary crust

Bake to Perfection:

Pop into your preheated oven Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for thirty to thirty five minutes The top should be deeply golden and the center should not jiggle or feel wet when tapped

Cool and Chill:

Let the pan cool completely on a rack so the interior finishes setting Once room temperature chill for at least two hours in the fridge This step ensures easy slicing and layered bars that hold their shape

Cut and Serve:

Use a sharp knife to cut into twelve bars Wipe your knife between slices to keep edges clean Serve chilled or at room temperature

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My favorite part is always the first slice the way the knife cracks through that top cinnamon sugar layer transports me right back to my last street churro in San Miguel. My little one once called these breakfast cheesecake and ever since requests them for birthday mornings.

Storage Tips

For best texture store bars in an airtight container in the fridge They keep wonderfully for up to four days Place wax paper or parchment between layers if stacking to prevent sticking You can also freeze well wrapped single bars for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge for a fresh bite

Ingredient Substitutions

For a tangier twist substitute up to half the cream cheese with full fat Greek yogurt This adds a lighter flavor but keeps things creamy Lactose free cream cheese works well for sensitive tummies and whole wheat crescent dough or gluten free brands can be swapped in if dietary needs require Do check your crescent roll packaging for any hidden additives especially if cooking for people with allergies

Serving Suggestions

These bars pair beautifully with strong coffee or Mexican hot chocolate For a festive platter add a drizzle of dulce de leche or a dollop of whipped cream Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon over the top for flair I love serving them as both a sweet brunch treat and a chilled summer dessert

Cultural and Historical Context

This recipe takes its inspiration from the beloved Mexican street pastry The classic churro is fried and rolled in cinnamon sugar but this version captures all that magic in a home oven It is an American style bar that borrows the heart of churros with an added cheesecake surprise merging comfort food cultures in the best way

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Serve these bars and watch them disappear whether for brunch, dessert, or a sweet pick me up. There is no wrong time to enjoy the magic of churros and cheesecake combined in every slice.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How can I achieve the best cinnamon-sugar crust?

Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar on the bottom dough layer and the rest on top after brushing with melted butter for maximum flavor and crunch.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt can replace part of the cream cheese for a lighter taste and creamy consistency.

→ What is the optimal way to cut the bars?

Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator, then use a sharp knife for clean, neat squares. Wipe the blade between cuts for best results.

→ Are these bars best served chilled or at room temperature?

They taste delicious both ways. Serve chilled for a firmer filling or at room temperature for a softer texture.

→ Can I add extra spices for more flavor?

Add a pinch of nutmeg or try a dash of cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a unique twist.

→ What allergens should I watch for in this treat?

Contains wheat (gluten), milk, and egg. Double-check the crescent dough for additional additives or allergens.