The Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake Recipe is a deliciously decadent dessert that marries the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet, spicy crunch of churro-inspired cinnamon cereal and fresh strawberries. Each bite offers a perfect blend of tangy cream cheese, buttery graham cracker crust, and the unexpected burst of fruity freshness wrapped in a crispy cinnamon crunch. If you love cheesecake with a fun twist, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to make and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right balance of ingredients is key to this cheesecake’s amazing texture and flavor. Each component plays a vital role, from the buttery crust to the luscious cream cheese filling and that magical churro crunch topping.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: This forms the sturdy, buttery base of the crust.
- 1/3 cup melted butter: Binds the graham cracker crumbs perfectly and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering.
- 1 1/2 cups crushed cinnamon cereal: Adds that signature churro-inspired crunch and cinnamon warmth.
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, ensuring a creamy, smooth texture.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling beautifully.
- 3 eggs: Helps the cheesecake set while maintaining a soft consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, aromatic note to the filling.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds subtle tang and creaminess to balance sweetness.
- 1/4 cup flour: Stabilizes the cheesecake for a perfect slice.
- 1 cup diced strawberries: Bursts of fresh, juicy fruit that brighten every bite.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Make the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl until fully mixed. Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This crust will provide a buttery, crispy foundation for your cheesecake.
Step 2: Add the Churro Crunch Layer
Sprinkle the crushed cinnamon cereal evenly over the pressed graham cracker crust. This layer captures the essence of churro flavor with its cinnamon sweetness and delightful crunch, elevating the texture of the final cheesecake.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is silky smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition to maintain that creamy consistency. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, which all work together to create a rich yet tender cheesecake batter.
Step 4: Incorporate the Strawberries
Gently fold the diced strawberries into the cream cheese mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed but keeping their shape intact. These juicy berries add an irresistible freshness and a burst of color that make the cheesecake truly special.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cheesecake batter carefully over the prepared crust and churro crunch layer. Bake in your preheated oven for about one hour or until the cheesecake is set but still jiggly in the center. Let it cool completely on the countertop before transferring it to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to chill and fully develop its flavors.
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra cinnamon cereal pieces on top will add a visually appealing touch and enhance the churro theme. Fresh strawberry slices arranged neatly around the edges also boost the freshness and make the presentation pop beautifully.
Side Dishes
Consider serving your cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. These side elements complement the creamy texture and add a layer of indulgence that will wow your guests.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve slices in individual mini springform pans or parfait glasses layered with extra crushed cinnamon cereal and strawberry slices. This visually stunning presentation makes the Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake Recipe perfect for special occasions or casual get-togethers alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors and to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, bring the cheesecake to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving if you prefer it less cold and to allow the flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of diced?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries add a naturally sweet freshness that pairs perfectly with the churro crunch, just make sure to dice or slice them small enough to blend well in the cheesecake.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives and ensure your cinnamon cereal is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake Recipe without compromise.
Can I prepare the crust and churro layer ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare and press the crust and sprinkle the cinnamon cereal layer a day before baking. Keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to add the filling and bake.
What type of cream cheese works best?
Use full-fat cream cheese that is softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture and best flavor in your cheesecake.
Can I swap out sour cream for something else?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that provides similar tanginess and creaminess without altering the flavor too much.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved dessert in your kitchen. The combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy cinnamon cereal, and fresh strawberries is pure magic. Whether for a party or a cozy treat at home, this cheesecake brings joy with every bite. So, gather your ingredients and give it a try—the perfect slice is waiting!
Print
Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake features a delightful graham cracker and cinnamon cereal crust topped with a creamy, strawberry-filled cheesecake. Baked to perfection and chilled before serving, it’s a perfect dessert that combines the flavors of churro-inspired cinnamon with fresh strawberries for a crunchy and creamy treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups crushed cinnamon cereal
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup diced strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix well until evenly moistened, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Add Cinnamon Cereal: Sprinkle the crushed cinnamon cereal evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust for a crunchy churro-inspired layer.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then incorporate the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, stirring to combine. Gently fold in the diced strawberries to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling mixture evenly over the crust and cinnamon cereal layer in the springform pan.
- Bake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the center is set and a slight jiggle remains. Avoid overbaking to maintain creamy texture.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to fully set and chill before serving.
- Serve: Release the sides of the springform pan, slice the cheesecake, serve chilled, and enjoy your delicious Strawberry Crunch Churro Cheesecake!
Notes
- For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
- You can substitute cinnamon cereal for any crunchy cinnamon-spiced cereal of your choice.
- Diced strawberries can be fresh or thawed from frozen; drain excess liquid to avoid soggy filling.
- Chilling the cheesecake thoroughly improves texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
