Save to Pinterest Soft, cinnamon-sugar muffin squares with a creamy cheesecake swirl inspired by classic churros, perfect for breakfast or dessert. These squares bring the nostalgic flavor of churros and creamy cheesecake together in an easy-to-share treat.
When I first baked these for a weekend brunch, they disappeared before I could save a single square for later. The aroma of cinnamon sugar brought everyone into the kitchen, and now they're always requested for family get-togethers.
Ingredients
- Muffin Base: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice rested for 5 minutes), 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled, 2 large eggs, 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Cream Cheese Filling: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese softened, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg yolk, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Churro Topping: 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Prep Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Muffin Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Pour wet into dry and mix until just combined.
- Layer Base:
- Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Cream Cheese Layer:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla, and beat until well combined. Dollop over the batter and gently swirl with a knife.
- Top Layer:
- Drop spoonfuls of remaining muffin batter on top and gently swirl for marbled effect.
- Bake:
- Bake for 23 to 27 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from center. Cool in pan for 10 minutes.
- Churro Topping:
- Mix sugar and cinnamon for topping. Brush melted butter over warm squares, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let squares cool completely, then lift out and slice into 16 portions.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping on these muffin squares, especially on chilly mornings when a warm treat is the best comfort.
Required Tools
You will need a 9x9-inch baking pan, parchment paper, several mixing bowls, whisk, mixer, a knife for swirling, and a pastry brush for the buttery churro finish.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat (gluten), dairy, and eggs. Be sure to check every label if you have concerns with dairy or baking powder ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Each muffin square has about 220 calories, 10g fat, 28g carbohydrates, and 4g protein. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Save to Pinterest Try these muffin squares fresh for a bakery-style treat, and don't forget to share them while they're still warm. You'll love how perfectly the creamy swirl balances the cinnamon crunch.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute buttermilk in the batter?
Yes, use 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and let it rest for 5 minutes as an alternative.
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Full-fat Greek yogurt or mascarpone can be substituted for cream cheese to adjust texture and flavor.
- → Should the squares be served warm or cooled?
Serving warm enhances the churro-like taste, but they are also delicious cooled and easier to slice.
- → Can I freeze the churro muffin squares?
Yes, wrap cooled squares in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- → Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Check other ingredients for hidden gluten.
- → Are there other toppings that work well?
Try dusting with powdered sugar, drizzling chocolate, or adding a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for extra flavor.