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Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Churro Graduation Bars Recipe with Easy Creamy Dip

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These crispy cinnamon sugar churro bars paired with a smooth, creamy dip are perfect for graduation celebrations or any festive occasion. They offer a delightful combination of crunchy edges, chewy centers, and a luscious dip that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (for cinnamon sugar coating)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar coating)
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for dip)
  • 2–3 tablespoons (30-45ml) milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon.
  3. In a large bowl, blend melted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly to about 1-inch thickness.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. While baking, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
  9. Remove bars from oven and let cool about 10 minutes. While warm, sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over top and press lightly to adhere.
  10. Prepare creamy dip by beating softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add milk to reach pourable but creamy consistency. Chill until serving.
  11. Once bars are completely cooled, cut into 12 squares and serve with creamy dip on the side.

Notes

Use melted unsalted butter for best texture and flavor. Apply cinnamon sugar coating while bars are warm for best adhesion. Reheat bars at 325°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness if needed. For gluten-free, substitute flour with 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. For dairy-free dip, use dairy-free cream cheese and plant milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon sugar bars, churro bars, creamy dip, graduation dessert, easy dessert, cinnamon dessert, party bars, crispy bars

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/crispy-cinnamon-sugar-churro-graduation-bars-recipe-with-easy-creamy-dip/