Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Dreams

My latest cinnamon roll cheesecake invention blends two classic desserts into pure magic.

Sweet aromas will drift through your kitchen, promising something extraordinary.

Creamy layers promise decadence beyond imagination.

Bakers seeking comfort and indulgence will adore this delightful mashup.

Soft cream cheese mingles with warm spices, creating a spectacular dessert experience.

Rich swirls of cinnamon weave through each delectable slice.

Anticipate a treat that brings smiles and satisfies deepest dessert dreams.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake That Combines Two Classics

  • This cinnamon roll cheesecake breaks down complex steps into manageable tasks, perfect for home bakers seeking a delightful dessert without overwhelming techniques.
  • Combines classic cheesecake smoothness with beloved cinnamon roll warmth, creating a dessert that sparks joy and memories for everyone at the table.
  • The cinnamon mixture creates stunning marble-like patterns, transforming an ordinary cheesecake into a visually stunning centerpiece that looks professionally crafted.
  • Can be prepared entirely in advance, chilling overnight, which means less kitchen stress and more time enjoying with friends and family during gatherings.

Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Base of the crust with a classic cookie-like texture, choose finely ground crumbs for smooth consistency.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust, helps bind ingredients together.
  • Cinnamon: Provides warm spice note to complement the crust.
  • Butter: Melted butter helps bind crumbs and creates a rich, cohesive base.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Primary creamy base, use full-fat, room temperature for smooth texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling, balances cream cheese flavor.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creates a silky, rich texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor profile, choose pure vanilla for best taste.
  • Eggs: Provides structure and helps set the cheesecake, use large eggs at room temperature.
Cinnamon and Topping Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Butter, Cinnamon: Cinnamon swirl mixture with deep, warm flavors.
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth, spreadable frosting.
  • Butter, Cream Cheese: Base for cream cheese frosting, ensure both are softened.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the frosting.
  • Milk: Adjusts frosting consistency if needed.

How to Bake Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake That Wows

Step 1: Create the Crispy Crust Base

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grab a springform pan and protect it with aluminum foil. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture feels like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom using a flat glass. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a small bowl, combine:
  • Melted butter
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Stir until the ingredients are perfectly blended. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Craft the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until silky smooth. Add granulated sugar and blend thoroughly. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until the texture becomes luxurious. Gently incorporate eggs one by one, mixing on low speed to maintain a perfect consistency.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl the Cheesecake

Pour half the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Drizzle half of the cinnamon mixture across the surface. Use a knife to create dreamy swirl patterns. Repeat the layering process with remaining filling and cinnamon mixture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the springform pan’s sides. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center is set but slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest for one hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Prepare the Luscious Cream Cheese Topping

Beat cream cheese and butter until ultra-smooth. Gradually mix in:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Add milk sparingly if the frosting needs thinning.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Release the cheesecake from the springform pan. Generously spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top. Slice and serve chilled for a mind-blowing dessert experience.

Cheesecake Tips for Cinnamon Roll Lovers

  • Prevent Crust Crumbling: Use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to firmly press graham cracker mixture, ensuring a compact and stable base that won't fall apart when slicing.
  • Master Water Bath Technique: Wrap springform pan in aluminum foil carefully to prevent water seepage, guaranteeing a perfectly smooth cheesecake without soggy edges.
  • Control Egg Mixing: Add eggs one at a time and mix on low speed to maintain a silky, crack-free cheesecake texture without overworking the batter.
  • Achieve Perfect Swirl Pattern: Use a knife or skewer to gently create marbled cinnamon swirls, moving in light, random motions for an artistic and appetizing design.
  • Avoid Cheesecake Cracking: Cool the cheesecake gradually by leaving it in the oven with the door slightly open, which helps prevent surface cracks and ensures a creamy consistency.

Store Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Like a Pro

  • Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw safely.
  • Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on low power. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheesecake from becoming rubbery or losing its creamy texture.
  • Remove from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the cheesecake to soften slightly and enhance its flavor and texture.

Coffee and Brunch Pairings for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

  • Select sweet fortified wines like port or moscato that complement the rich, creamy cheesecake. Their sugary notes beautifully balance the tangy cream cheese and warm cinnamon flavors.
  • Brew a robust medium-roast coffee with caramel or nutty undertones to enhance the cinnamon roll characteristics. The coffee's warmth and depth will perfectly match the cheesecake's sweet, spicy profile.
  • Prepare a cinnamon-spiced chai latte or hot chocolate to mirror the dessert's warm, comforting spices. These drinks will create a harmonious flavor experience that feels like a cozy embrace.
  • Scoop vanilla bean ice cream alongside the cheesecake to provide a cool, creamy contrast. The pure vanilla essence will beautifully highlight the dessert's complex cinnamon and cream cheese layers.

Topping Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a safe base for those with gluten sensitivities.

Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of sour cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs to create a plant-based version of this classic dessert.

Low-Carb Cinnamon Cheesecake Option: Swap graham cracker crust with a mixture of almond flour and crushed pecans, use a sugar substitute like erythritol, and reduce overall carbohydrate content while maintaining rich flavor.

Keto-Friendly Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: Use almond flour for the crust, replace sugar with a keto-approved sweetener like stevia, and incorporate full-fat cream cheese to align with ketogenic dietary requirements.

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Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe


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4.8 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Silky cinnamon roll cheesecake brings classic bakery magic to your dessert table with creamy indulgence. Swirled layers of sweet cinnamon and smooth cream cheese promise delightful comfort that welcomes you into pure homemade bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups (360 milliliters) graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.25 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Filling Ingredients:

  • 32 ounces (907 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cinnamon and Topping Ingredients:

  • 0.5 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.5 cup (100 grams) light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 0.25 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons (180 milliliters) milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

  1. Craft a sturdy foundation for the dessert by mixing graham cracker crumbs with sugar and cinnamon, then binding with melted butter. Press the mixture compactly into a springform pan lined with foil.
  2. Create a luxurious cinnamon swirl mixture by whisking melted butter with brown sugar and ground cinnamon until thoroughly integrated.
  3. Develop a silky cheesecake base by whipping cream cheese until velvety smooth. Gradually incorporate granulated sugar, ensuring a uniform texture.
  4. Introduce sour cream and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, blending until glossy and uniform. Gently fold eggs into the batter, maintaining a delicate consistency.
  5. Distribute half the cheesecake filling across the prepared crust, ensuring an even layer. Artfully drizzle half the cinnamon mixture, using a knife to create elegant swirls throughout the surface.
  6. Repeat the layering process with remaining cheesecake filling and cinnamon mixture, crafting intricate marbled patterns.
  7. Establish a water bath by placing the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan filled with hot water. Bake in a preheated oven, allowing the cheesecake to set with a gentle wobble.
  8. After initial baking, leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar, enabling a gradual cooling process that prevents cracking.
  9. Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake for several hours, allowing it to firm and develop complex flavors.
  10. Whip cream cheese and butter until pillowy, then gradually integrate powdered sugar and vanilla. Adjust consistency with milk if needed.
  11. Prior to serving, release the cheesecake from its pan and adorn with luscious cream cheese frosting. Slice and present chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling for your cheesecake.
  • Wrap the springform pan tightly with foil to prevent water from seeping into the delicate crust during the water bath baking method.
  • Swirl the cinnamon mixture gently to create beautiful marbled patterns without overmixing the cheesecake batter.
  • Cool the cheesecake gradually to prevent cracking by leaving it in the oven with the door slightly open after baking.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 38 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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