This cheesecake features a delightful churro twist, with options to incorporate the flavors into a spiced crust or a cinnamon-sugar swirl within the filling.
24OzPackages cream cheese, softened at room temperature
1 1/4CupGranulated sugar
4LargeEggs
1CupSour cream
2TspVanilla extract
1/2Tspground cinnamon (optional)
Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl Ingredients (Optional)
1/4CupGranulated sugar
2TspGround cinnamon
Instructions
Churro Recipe
Make the Dough:In a saucepan, heat water, butter, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low. Immediately add flour and stir vigorously until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a ball.
Incorporate Egg:Remove pan from heat. Transfer dough to a large bowl and let cool for 5 minutes. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
Heat Oil:Fill a deep fryer or large pot with 2 inches of oil. Heat to 360°F (180°C). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Pipe and Fry:Transfer dough to the pastry bag. Pipe 4-5 inch ropes of dough directly into the hot oil, using a knife or scissors to cut the dough. Fry in batches until golden brown, flipping once.
Drain and Coat:Remove churros with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Immediately roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Cheesecake Instructions
Make the Crust (Optional):Crush churros in a food processor or within a plastic bag using a rolling pin. Combine crushed churros, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter .Press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
Prep for Baking:Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water seeping in if using a water bath (recommended for creamy cheesecake texture).
Make the Filling:In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
Choose Your Variation:Plain Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling directly over the prepared crust (if using).Cinnamon Swirl: Pour about half of the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust (if using). Combine remaining sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the filling. Gently swirl with a knife. Pour remaining filling over top.
Bake:Place cheesecake in a roasting pan or larger baking dish. Pour hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan (water bath method).Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is almost set with a slight jiggle.
Cool and Chill:Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for about an hour. Remove cheesecake and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Notes
Serving Suggestions: Top with whipped cream, extra cinnamon sugar, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.Recipe Notes:
Flavor Intensity: Adjust the amount of cinnamon in the crust or filling to your desired level.
Water Bath: Creates a creamy, custard-like texture. If skipping, reduce baking temperature to 325°F.
Doneness: Cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center when done. Avoid overbaking.