Churro Cheesecake – SouthernRambles

Churro Cheesecake is a decadent fusion dessert that combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm cinnamon-sugar flavors of a traditional churro. A buttery graham cracker crust supports a smooth, tangy filling, finished with a generous cinnamon-sugar topping and optional caramel drizzle. The result is indulgent, aromatic, and perfectly balanced between sweet, spiced, and creamy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Two desserts in one – Combines velvety cheesecake with the nostalgic flavor of churros.
Rich yet balanced flavor – Cinnamon and sour cream cut through the sweetness.
Showstopping presentation – The golden cinnamon-sugar topping adds visual appeal.
Perfect make-ahead dessert – Tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Customizable toppings – Easily adapt with caramel, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle.
Ideal texture contrast – Crisp crust, creamy center, and lightly crisp cinnamon top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Graham Cracker Crust

1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs – Forms the sturdy, slightly sweet base
1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps bind the crust
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and structure

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened – Provides the smooth, creamy foundation
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the filling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds aromatic depth
3 large eggs, room temperature – Set the cheesecake structure
1/4 cup (60 g) sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses subtle churro-inspired spice

For the Churro Topping

1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted – Helps the cinnamon-sugar adhere
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar – Creates the classic churro coating
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Delivers signature churro flavor

Optional Garnishes

Caramel sauce – Adds sweet, buttery depth
Whipped cream – Lightens each slice visually and texturally

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and prepare the pan
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment for easy release.

Prepare the crust
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly coated. Press firmly into the pan and bake for 10 minutes to set the base, then cool slightly.

Mix the cheesecake filling
Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and lump-free. Add vanilla, then incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and cinnamon.

Fill and smooth
Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Bake gently
Bake for 50–60 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.

Chill thoroughly
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.

Prepare the churro topping
Mix sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Brush melted butter over the chilled cheesecake and evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.

Slice and serve
Remove the springform ring carefully. Slice with a warm, clean knife and drizzle with caramel sauce or add whipped cream if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Use room-temperature ingredients – Prevents lumps in the filling.
Avoid overmixing – Incorporate eggs gently to prevent excess air and cracks.
Cool gradually – Prevents surface cracking due to sudden temperature shifts.
Use a water bath (optional) – Provides even baking and extra creaminess.
Clean knife between slices – Ensures neat presentation.
Press crust firmly – Creates a stable base that won’t crumble when sliced.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
Cooling & Chilling Time: Minimum 5 hours
Total Time: About 6 hours including chilling
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: ~350 per slice (estimated)

Perfect Pairings

Fresh strawberries or berries for brightness
Hot coffee or café latte to balance sweetness
Mexican hot chocolate to complement cinnamon notes
Vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence

Ideal Occasions

Holiday dessert tables with crowd appeal
Birthday celebrations as a centerpiece cake
Dinner parties requiring an elegant finish
Potlucks and family gatherings thanks to easy slicing

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 5 days
Freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months
Serve slightly chilled for best texture
Add topping just before serving for freshest cinnamon flavor

Creative Variations to Try

Chocolate churro cheesecake – Add cocoa powder to the filling
Dulce de leche swirl – Swirl into the batter before baking
Mini cheesecakes – Bake in muffin tins for individual portions
Spiced crust – Add cinnamon to the graham cracker base

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cracked surface – Likely cooled too quickly; allow gradual cooling.
Dense texture – Overmixed batter; mix only until incorporated.
Soggy crust – Ensure crust is pre-baked and cooled before filling.
Underbaked center – Bake until edges are firm with slight center jiggle.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds by layering complementary textures and flavors. The butter-rich graham crust provides structural support and a subtle crunch. Cream cheese forms a stable emulsion when blended properly with sugar and eggs, while sour cream adds lactic tang that balances sweetness. Gentle baking prevents protein over-coagulation, keeping the filling creamy rather than rubbery. The cinnamon-sugar topping mimics the exterior of a churro, delivering aroma and slight crispness against the smooth cheesecake. At approximately 350 calories per slice, it offers indulgence while remaining portion-controlled.

Final Thoughts

Churro Cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy decadence and warm cinnamon spice. Its layered textures and balanced sweetness make it an impressive yet approachable dessert for any occasion. With simple technique and thoughtful chilling time, you’ll achieve a bakery-quality result that feels indulgent yet customizable with lighter swaps if desired. One slice delivers comfort, elegance, and unforgettable flavor.