Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Cinnamon roll cheesecake combines the best of two beloved desserts into one rich and creamy treat. This recipe features a buttery graham cracker crust, swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling, and a velvety cheesecake base. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, this dessert is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you crave something indulgent.

Ingredients

For the crust:
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp sugar

For the cinnamon roll filling:
• ½ cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp cinnamon

For the cheesecake filling:
• 3 packs (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the crust:
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill in the fridge while preparing the fillings.

Make the cinnamon roll filling:
Combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.

Prepare the cheesecake filling:
Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Assemble the cheesecake:
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon roll filling over the batter and use a knife to create swirls. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top and repeat the swirling process with the remaining cinnamon filling.

Bake:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Add the glaze:
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cheesecake before serving for a finishing touch.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
• Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best texture and flavor.
• Serve with a cup of coffee or warm milk for a cozy dessert experience.
• For a thicker crust, press the graham cracker mixture slightly up the sides of the pan.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:
• Let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
• For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe it clean between cuts.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for added indulgence.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm milk to complement the cinnamon flavors.

Storage Tips:
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: This cheesecake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it a great dessert to prepare in advance.

Variations

1. Classic Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Stick to the original recipe for a rich and creamy dessert with a perfect balance of cinnamon and cheesecake flavors.

2. Pecan Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Add ½ cup of chopped pecans to the cinnamon filling for a nutty crunch and deeper flavor.

3. Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra layer of sweetness.

4. Chocolate Swirl Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Melt ½ cup of chocolate chips and swirl into the cheesecake batter along with the cinnamon filling for a chocolatey twist.

5. Apple Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Fold in 1 cup of finely diced apples into the cheesecake batter for a fruity variation.

6. Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Replace the sour cream with ½ cup of pumpkin puree and add ½ teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired version.

7. Oreo Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Use crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for the crust and sprinkle crushed Oreos on top before baking.

8. Maple Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Substitute the vanilla extract in the glaze with maple extract for a warm, rich flavor.

9. Keto Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Use almond flour instead of graham cracker crumbs for the crust and a sugar substitute for a low-carb version.

10. Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes – Instead of a large cheesecake, bake in a muffin tin with cupcake liners for single-serving portions. Adjust baking time to 20–25 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, chilling it overnight enhances the flavors and texture. Make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

2. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, bake at a low temperature, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually. You can also bake it in a water bath for extra moisture.

3. Do I have to use a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for easy removal, but if you don’t have one, you can use a deep pie dish or cake pan lined with parchment paper.

4. Can I use store-bought cinnamon roll dough for this recipe?
No, this recipe creates a cinnamon roll effect within the cheesecake itself. However, you can serve it alongside cinnamon rolls for extra indulgence.

5. What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon filling?
Use a butter knife or a skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect.

6. Can I freeze cinnamon roll cheesecake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

7. What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?
You can substitute crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even cinnamon-flavored cookies for a different flavor profile.

8. How do I know when my cheesecake is fully baked?
The edges should be set while the center is slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools. Overbaking can result in a dry texture.

9. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the creamiest texture, but you can use low-fat cream cheese if needed. Avoid fat-free versions as they may alter the consistency.

10. What toppings pair well with this cheesecake?
Try drizzling caramel sauce, adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or serving with whipped cream and chopped pecans for extra flavor.

Cinnamon roll cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that brings together warm, spiced flavors with creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of this irresistible dessert!

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