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Crispy No-Bake Churro Cheesecake Bites

crispy no-bake churro cheesecake bites - featured image

These crispy no-bake churro cheesecake bites combine a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating with a creamy cheesecake filling, perfect for graduation parties and easy to make with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups (about 180g) graham crackers, finely crushed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
  • 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, beat 16 oz (450g) of softened cream cheese on medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar gradually, then mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Continue mixing until fully combined and creamy.
  3. Place 2 cups (180g) of graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. If no processor, crush in a sealed bag with a rolling pin until sandy.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt if using. Mix well.
  5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion about 1 tablespoon (15g) of the cream cheese filling per bite. Roll gently between palms to form smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
  6. Brush each bite lightly with 4 tablespoons (60g) melted unsalted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar-graham cracker mix, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well. Set aside on the tray.
  7. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, place the coated bites in the pan and toast each side for about 2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Turn gently to avoid burning.
  8. Transfer the toasted bites back to the parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set and enhance flavors.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. Melted butter is essential for the coating to stick and crisp up. Toast bites on medium heat to avoid burning. Chill bites after toasting to firm up and meld flavors. Can double coating for extra crunch. For gluten-free, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies. For dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, churro, cheesecake bites, graduation party dessert, easy dessert, cinnamon sugar, creamy cheesecake, crispy coating