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To make these churro cheesecake bars, you will need: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 large egg - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 1/4 cup caramel sauce (optional) You can swap some ingredients if needed. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Coconut sugar can replace granulated sugar for a different flavor. If you don't have cream cheese, use ricotta cheese for a lighter texture. For a vegan version, try a vegan cream cheese and substitute the egg with a flax egg. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Check the expiration dates on dairy products like cream cheese and butter. For flour, store it in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh. Use pure vanilla extract for a richer flavor rather than imitation. When it comes to cinnamon, fresh ground cinnamon adds a wonderful aroma and taste. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temp helps the bars bake evenly and become golden. Grab an 8x8-inch baking pan. Grease it with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This makes removing the bars easy later on. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This is your dry mix. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 large egg. Mix until it is creamy. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Keep mixing until a soft dough forms. In another bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer. Mix until it is smooth. Add in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Keep mixing until everything blends well and becomes creamy. Take half of the dough and press it into the bottom of your greased pan. This forms the base. Then, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over this layer. Make sure it is even. Crumble the rest of the dough on top of the cream cheese. Spread it out to ensure a good mix of textures. Put the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden top and make sure the cheesecake layer is set. Once done, take the pan out and let it cool completely on a wire rack. After it cools, slice it into squares. Finish by sprinkling a cinnamon-sugar mix over the top. If you want, drizzle some caramel sauce on the side when you serve. Enjoy your delicious churro cheesecake bars! To create a smooth filling, start with room-temperature cream cheese. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps. Beat it well until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Mix until all ingredients blend smoothly. If you see lumps, keep mixing until you achieve that perfect creamy texture. Taste your filling before spreading it on the dough. You may want it sweeter or less sweet. If you prefer a sweeter bar, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time. For a less sweet option, reduce the sugar by the same amount. Balance is key, so find what suits your taste best. Avoid overmixing the dough; this can make it tough. When you press the dough into the pan, don’t pack it too tightly. It should be smooth but not dense. Also, watch the baking time. Overbaking can dry out the cheesecake filling. Aim for a golden top and a slightly jiggly center for the best texture. Pro Tips Chill the Cream Cheese: For an extra smooth filling, make sure your cream cheese is well-chilled before mixing. This helps achieve a creamier texture in the cheesecake layer. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cheesecake bars as they bake. The edges should be set, while the center may still have a slight jiggle when you take them out of the oven. Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper not only makes removing the bars easier but also prevents them from sticking to the pan, ensuring a clean cut. Customize the Topping: Feel free to add your favorite toppings! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar can elevate the flavor and presentation. {{image_4}} You can add fun flavors to your churro cheesecake bars. Try mixing in chocolate chips or a swirl of Nutella. For chocolate chips, just fold in 1/2 cup before spreading the cream cheese layer. If you want Nutella, add 1/4 cup to the cream cheese mixture after beating it. This gives a rich, chocolatey twist. To make gluten-free churro cheesecake bars, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that works well in baking. Follow the same recipe steps. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without gluten. You can make these bars vegan with a few easy swaps. Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. For the cream cheese layer, try vegan cream cheese. Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for five minutes. This mixture works great as a binding agent. You still get a tasty treat while keeping it vegan! To keep your churro cheesecake bars fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool completely before storing. You can stack them with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. These bars stay tasty for up to three days in the fridge. You can freeze churro cheesecake bars for up to two months. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy a sweet treat later! To reheat, remove the desired amount from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. For warm bars, place them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You can also reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Enjoy them warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce! Yes, you can make these bars a day before serving. Just let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps the flavors blend well. When you are ready to serve, sprinkle some cinnamon-sugar on top for extra flair. Your bars are done when the top is golden brown. The cheesecake layer should look set and not jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. This means the center is cooked well. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning. These bars pair well with a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also serve with whipped cream or ice cream. Fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries adds a nice touch too. For a crunch, consider nuts or chocolate chips on the side. These bars contain gluten and dairy, so they are not gluten-free or vegan. However, you can adapt the recipe. Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free cream cheese. This way, you can make a version for those with dietary restrictions. Always check labels for allergens. We covered how to make Churro Cheesecake Bars, from choosing ingredients to storing leftovers. You learned about ingredient swaps, baking steps, and fun variations. Remember to strive for the perfect filling and avoid common mistakes. These bars can fit many diets and delight everyone. Enjoy sharing this tasty treat with friends and family!

Churro Cheesecake Bars

Delicious cheesecake bars with a churro-inspired crust and topping.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 large egg
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1 4 cup caramel sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by greasing it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well blended. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and egg together until the mixture is creamy and homogenous. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft and cohesive dough forms.
  • Take half of the dough and evenly press it into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a smooth base layer.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until completely smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated and creamy.
  • Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the pan, smoothing it out to ensure an even layer.
  • Crumble the remaining dough into small pieces and sprinkle it evenly over the cheesecake layer, ensuring a consistent distribution for a delightful texture.
  • Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is set.
  • Once baking is complete, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
  • After cooling, cut the bars into squares and sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the top for a sweet finishing touch.
  • Serve the bars on a plate with a drizzle of caramel sauce on the side if desired, enhancing their indulgence.

Notes

Arrange the churro cheesecake bars on a decorative platter. For visual appeal, apply a light dusting of cinnamon-sugar on top. Consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or extra caramel sauce for an added touch of luxury and flavor.
Keyword bars, cheesecake, churro, dessert