Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe

If you are ready to delight your taste buds and impress everyone at your next gathering, let me introduce you to the irresistible Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe. This cheesecake perfectly marries the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar that call to mind those beloved churros. Every bite offers a delicate crunch from the cinnamon-speckled graham cracker crust paired with a smooth, spiced filling that feels like a cozy hug. This recipe is as straightforward as it is scrumptious, making it a must-try for cheesecake and dessert lovers alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe lies in how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each component plays a vital role in creating layers of texture and depth of flavor, from the buttery crust to the velvety filling spiced just right with cinnamon.

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These crumbs form the buttery and crunchy base crust for that perfect churro-inspired texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the right amount of sweetness to the crust, balancing the cinnamon perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the crust with warm, aromatic spice essential for the churro flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients together while adding richness.
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the cheesecake that provides that classic smooth texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the creamy filling beautifully without overpowering the cinnamon notes.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a touch of warm, floral sweetness.
• 4 large eggs: These bind and add structure to the cheesecake, ensuring it sets perfectly.
• 1 cup sour cream: Brings tenderness and a slight tang to balance the richness.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the filling for a denser, sliceable crumb.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping): To sprinkle on top, adding a crisp, sugary finish resembling a churro coating.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Dusts the top with signature spice, completing the churro cheesecake experience.

How to Make Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Greasing a 9-inch springform pan ensures your cheesecake doesn’t stick and will come out looking flawless for serving.

Step 2: Craft the Cinnamon-Churro Crust

Mix the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon, then blend with melted butter. Pressing this mixture evenly and firmly into the prepared pan makes a crunchy, flavorful base that’s a nod to those classic churro bites.

Step 3: Beat the Cream Cheese Until Smooth

Using an electric mixer, whip the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy—this ensures the filling has that dreamy consistency.

Step 4: Sweeten and Flavor the Filling

Slowly add the cup of sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing well to fully combine the sweet and aromatic flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs One by One

Add the eggs individually, mixing on low speed after each addition just until combined. This gentle approach helps avoid a dense batter and improves texture.

Step 6: Add Sour Cream and Flour

Fold in the sour cream and flour gently until the mixture is smooth and uniform, adding moisture and structure without weighing it down.

Step 7: Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over the crust in your springform pan. Spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking and a beautiful finish.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your cheesecake in the oven and bake for about 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble—this guarantees a creamy yet stable filling.

Step 9: Cool Gradually to Prevent Cracks

Turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for an hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracking, leaving you with a smooth top perfect for the final touches.

Step 10: Add the Signature Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Mix the sugar and cinnamon topping and sprinkle it evenly over the cooled cheesecake. This adds that irresistible churro-inspired crunch and spice on top.

Step 11: Chill to Set Completely

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This rest period lets the flavors meld and the texture firm beautifully.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the springform sides before slicing. Serve chilled for that perfect balance of cool, creamy, and crunchy with every bite.

How to Serve Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your cheesecake with a dusting of additional cinnamon powder or a drizzle of caramel or dulce de leche for extra sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also add lovely color and lightness that pair beautifully with the spiced flavor.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee, a spicy chai latte, or even a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a full-on churro-inspired dessert experience. Fresh fruit salad or a simple berry compote can refresh the palate and balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, consider serving individual cheesecake bites in mini jars, layered with cinnamon sugar on top and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Another fun idea is to accompany each slice with a cinnamon stick or edible gold leaf for a festive and elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once made, this Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge, tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen over the first couple of days, making leftovers even more delightful.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesecake either whole or in slices. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

Cheesecake is typically best served cold, but if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can ruin the texture, but a gentle warmth allows the spices to bloom and the creaminess to shine.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust for this cheesecake?

Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust with cinnamon captures the churro essence perfectly, feel free to experiment with crushed cinnamon cookies or even churro dough crumbs to customize your base.

What can I substitute if I don’t have sour cream?

You can replace sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche, which will maintain the creamy texture and subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream cheese.

How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake?

Gradual cooling is key—letting the cheesecake cool inside the turned-off oven with the door slightly open helps prevent sudden temperature changes, which are a common cause of cracking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust, and double-check that your baking flour substitutes are gluten-free as well.

How long should I wait before slicing the cheesecake?

It’s best to chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, so it has enough time to fully set and for the flavors of this Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe to meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Churro Cheesecake Recipe is a dazzling treat that brings the beloved churro experience right into your kitchen in cheesecake form. It’s a heartwarming dessert that gets better with every bite, perfect for celebrations or simply treating yourself. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becoming a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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