Churro Cheesecake Recipe

Who doesn’t love cheesecake? And who can resist the warm, sugary, cinnamon-coated crunch of a classic churro? Now, imagine combining the best of both worlds into one show-stopping dessert, Churro Cheesecake!

This fusion dessert is a dream come true for those who crave the silky smoothness of cheesecake and the sweet, spiced delight of churros. It’s the kind of treat that makes your taste buds dance and leaves your kitchen smelling like a bakery straight out of Spain!

Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a weekend treat, this churro cheesecake will wow your guests. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with just a few ingredients. So, if you’re ready to bake a dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds, let’s get started!

Ingredients

Before we start baking, let’s gather everything we need.

For the Crust

For the Cheesecake Filling

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

Optional for Serving

• Whipped cream
• Caramel drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking a cheesecake may seem intimidating, but I promise it’s easier than you think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll end up with a perfectly creamy, cinnamon-sugar-coated masterpiece!

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Baking Pan

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly and achieves that smooth, creamy texture.

Next, grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick spray. If you want extra security, line the bottom with parchment paper. This will make removing the cheesecake a breeze!

Step 2: Make the Crust

The crust is what gives our churro cheesecake a slight crunch and holds everything together.

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until it resembles wet sand.
2. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed cup.
3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.

This quick bake helps the crust hold its shape and adds a little crunch, just like a churro!

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Now for the star of the show, the rich and creamy cheesecake filling!

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth. (No one likes a lumpy cheesecake!)
2. Gradually add sugar and mix until fully combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sour cream until the batter is velvety smooth.

Step 4: Pour & Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid when done.

Step 5: Cooling the Cheesecake Properly

You’ve done the hard part, the cheesecake is baked, and your kitchen smells like a dream. But before you grab a knife and dig in, we need to cool it properly to get that smooth, creamy texture.

Why Is Cooling Important?

If you rush the cooling process, you might end up with a runny or cracked cheesecake. Patience is key here!

How to Cool Your Cheesecake the Right Way:

1. Once the baking time is up, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly open. Let it sit for one hour to cool gradually. This prevents sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracks.
2. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for another hour.
3. Transfer it to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before slicing.

Step 6: Adding the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

This is where the churro magic happens! Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, we add a sweet and slightly crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating.

How to Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:

1. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
2. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
3. For an extra churro-like crunch, lightly torch the sugar topping with a kitchen torch OR broil it in the oven for about 1-2 minutes on high heat.

Serving and Storage Tips

How to Serve Churro Cheesecake

Now comes the fun part, eating it!

• Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between each cut for clean slices.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
• Want to take it up a notch? Dust some extra cinnamon-sugar on top right before serving!

How to Store Leftovers

If you (somehow) have leftovers, here’s how to keep your cheesecake fresh:

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Even experienced bakers run into problems sometimes! Here are some of the most common cheesecake issues and how to fix them:

1. Why Did My Cheesecake Crack?

Cause: Overmixing the batter, sudden temperature changes, or overbaking.
Fix: Cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door slightly open. Also, don’t overbeat the batter, mix just until combined!

2. My Cheesecake Is Too Soft/Runny!

Cause: It didn’t chill long enough or wasn’t baked long enough.
Fix: Always chill for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before slicing. If it’s still too soft, place it back in the fridge for a few more hours.

3. How Do I Get a Smooth Cheesecake Without Lumps?

Cause: Cold cream cheese wasn’t mixed properly.
Fix: Always use room temperature cream cheese and beat it until smooth before adding other ingredients.

4. My Cinnamon-Sugar Topping Isn’t Sticking!

Cause: The cheesecake is too dry on top.
Fix: Lightly brush the top with melted butter before adding the cinnamon-sugar for better adhesion.

FAQs: Answering Your Cheesecake Questions

Can I Use a Different Crust?

Absolutely! While graham crackers are the classic choice, you can switch it up with:
Oreo Crust – For a chocolatey twist!
Biscoff Cookie Crust – Adds caramelized spice flavors.
Shortbread Crust – For a more buttery base.

How Can I Add More Churro Flavor?

Want even MORE churro vibes? Try these tips:
Double the cinnamon in the crust and filling.
Drizzle caramel sauce on top.
Dust extra cinnamon-sugar before serving.

Can I Make This Cheesecake Ahead of Time?

Yes! Churro Cheesecake is actually better when made a day in advance because it needs time to set in the fridge.

What’s the Best Way to Get Clean Cheesecake Slices?

✔️ Use a sharp knife and dip it in hot water before slicing.
✔️ Wipe the knife between each cut for perfect slices.

Final Thoughts on Churro Cheesecake

So, there you have it, a creamy, cinnamon-sugar-infused cheesecake that’s bound to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover, a churro addict, or just someone who enjoys an easy yet impressive dessert, this recipe is for you.

With its buttery crust, silky smooth filling, and crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping, Churro Cheesecake is guaranteed to be a showstopper. Serve it at your next party, and watch it disappear slice by slice!

So what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to this sweet masterpiece!

Nutrition Facts

And that’s a wrap! We’ve now covered everything you need to know to make the ultimate Churro Cheesecake, from baking and cooling to troubleshooting and serving tips.