Photo by Pixabay

Warm cinnamon, butter, and vanilla come together for a delicious spin on the classic dessert.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs

• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Churro Topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

• In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon together.

• Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined and crumbly.

• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to press it down evenly to form a solid crust.

• Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.

• Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.

• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

• Mix in the sour cream (if using) and flour, and continue to beat until smooth.

• Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when you shake the pan.

• Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually (this helps prevent cracking).

• After 1 hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

• Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

4. Make the Churro Topping:

• In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon for the churro topping.

• Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, brush the top of the cheesecake with melted butter.

• Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake to give it a "churro" flavor.

5. Serve:

• Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.

• Slice and enjoy the creamy, cinnamon-sugar goodness!