If you have a love for all things cozy, creamy, and delightfully spiced, the Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dessert. Imagine the perfect blend of velvety pumpkin cheesecake resting on a crisp, cinnamon-infused graham cracker crust with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top that mimics the nostalgic churro flavor we all adore. These bars are rich in flavor but surprisingly simple to make, perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging as an autumn treat anytime you want a little sweet escape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture, taste, and warmth. From the buttery crust to the spices that make your kitchen smell irresistible, here’s everything you’ll need to create these divine bars.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy, slightly sweet base that holds all the creaminess above.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the graham crumbs together and adds a rich flavor without overpowering the spices.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust, filling, and topping for balanced flavor throughout.
- Cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the crust, filling, and topping with warm, aromatic notes.
- Cream cheese, softened: Creates the smooth, creamy texture essential for classic cheesecake decadence.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the cheesecake’s flavor depth and complements the pumpkin spices.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cheesecake filling.
- Canned pumpkin puree: Brings natural sweetness, moisture, and that unmistakable autumn vibe.
- Ground ginger, nutmeg, and salt: Adds layers of warming spice and a pinch of salt to elevate all the other flavors.
- Sour cream: Gives the cheesecake a slight tang and a luxuriously smooth finish.
How to Make Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease an 8×8-inch pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until the crumbs are evenly coated. Then press this mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom. Bake for 8-10 minutes to set the crust and release that warm cinnamon aroma.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until luxuriously smooth and creamy—this takes about 2 minutes with an electric mixer. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt, and mix until the batter is smooth. Finish by folding in sour cream to create that irresistible creamy tang.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour your cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled churro crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the whole pan for 40-45 minutes until the center is mostly set but still has a gentle jiggle. This ensures a creamy texture rather than a dry one. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight to set fully.
Step 4: Add the Churro Topping and Serve
Mix cinnamon with sugar in a small bowl for the topping. Once the bars have chilled and firmed up, generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cheesecake layer. Cut into 16 squares, serve chilled, and enjoy the extraordinary mix of rich, creamy filling with the crunchy, cinnamon-sugar churro-inspired crust.
How to Serve Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes these bars stand out even more. For an extra cozy touch, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top to add a contrasting texture that complements the churro flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea, rich coffee, or even a creamy latte for the ultimate autumn snack experience. A fresh fruit salad with oranges and cranberries also pairs beautifully, balancing the bars’ richness with bright freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving bites in mini cupcake liners or stacking them on a pretty platter dusted with extra cinnamon sugar. You can also layer the filling and crust in small mason jars for a charming, portable dessert option that’ll wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, but be sure to cover them well to avoid drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to save these bars for longer, they freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed container or freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer them slightly warmed, microwave for about 15 seconds. Be careful not to heat too long, or the creamy texture may change.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, but fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed until smooth. Using canned puree is more convenient and provides consistent moisture and texture for this recipe.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham or cookie crumbs. Make sure your spices and other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Can I use a different type of crust?
For sure! While the graham cracker crust is traditional and tasty, crushed snickerdoodle cookies or gingersnap cookies work wonderfully to enhance the churro flavor theme.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The center should be mostly set but with a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. A toothpick inserted in the middle will come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I double this recipe for a larger pan?
You can double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, but keep an eye on the baking time as it might take slightly longer to set fully.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe is hands-down a showstopper that brings comfort and joy in every bite. Whether it’s a family gathering, a festive treat, or just a special moment of indulgence, these bars bring a heartwarming twist on classic pumpkin cheesecake with a fun churro crunch. I cannot wait for you to try them and fall in love all over again!
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Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pumpkin Churro Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin and churro cinnamon sugar. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust infused with cinnamon and topped with a luscious pumpkin-spiced cream cheese filling, these bars are perfect for fall or anytime you crave a festive dessert.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix crust ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and sugar mixture to form a cohesive base.
- Form and bake crust: Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until set and slightly golden. Remove and let it cool completely while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with 1/2 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. This ensures a silky filling texture.
- Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth mixture and avoid lumps.
- Add flavorings and pumpkin: Mix in the vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Beat the mixture until everything is fully blended and smooth, creating that classic pumpkin cheesecake flavor.
- Fold in sour cream: Stir in the sour cream until evenly incorporated, which adds moisture and tang for richness.
- Assemble bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled churro crust and spread it out evenly using a spatula to create a uniform layer.
- Bake cheesecake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly; a toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the churro-style topping.
- Add topping and serve: Once bars are completely chilled, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top for a sweet, spiced finish. Cut into 16 squares and serve chilled.
- Enjoy: Delight in the creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake with the crunchy churro-inspired crust and topping!
Notes
- Be sure to use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best texture and flavor.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften fully at room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Press the crust mixture firmly when forming to prevent it from crumbling when sliced.
- Chilling the bars overnight improves the texture and enhances the flavors.
- For easier slicing, run a knife under hot water and dry before cutting the bars.
