Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is truly a delightful combination that brings dessert lovers together. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, spiced goodness of a cinnamon roll, this dessert is pure indulgence. Imagine a buttery cinnamon swirl topping, velvety cinnamon-infused cheesecake, and a drizzle of glaze—all in one glorious bite. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or a cozy weekend treat, this cinnamon roll cheesecake recipe will steal the show!
Table of Contents
Recipe Card
Recipe name: Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Description: A cozy and indulgent dessert combining creamy cheesecake and cinnamon roll flavors, topped with a delightful glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Base:
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers (or cinnamon-flavored cookies)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Swirl Topping:
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake. - Make the Cheesecake Base
In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press the mixture down firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool. - Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is nice and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully incorporated. - Make the Cinnamon Swirl Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until smooth. - Assemble the Cheesecake
Spread half the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon swirl topping onto the filling and use a knife to swirl it through. Add the remaining cheesecake filling and repeat with more cinnamon topping swirls. - Bake the Cheesecake
Set the cheesecake in a water bath to help prevent cracking. Bake for 1 hour, or until the edges are firm while the center remains slightly jiggly. - Cool and Chill
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly cracked open. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. - Prepare the Glaze
Stir together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the chilled cinnamon roll cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- For a nutty twist, add chopped pecans to the cinnamon topping.
- You can adjust the glaze’s consistency by adding more or less milk as needed.
- Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 slice (out of 12 servings)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Show-Stopping Appearance: The cinnamon swirls and glossy glaze make this dessert a centerpiece.
- Flavor Explosion: A perfect balance of creamy, tangy cheesecake and sweet, spiced cinnamon.
- Versatile Occasion Fit: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or a casual weekend treat.
- Customizable: Easily tweak flavors or add toppings like caramel or nuts.
- Impressive Yet Easy: Looks bakery-level but is straightforward to make at home.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese provides the creamiest texture, but low-fat works too.
- Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon elevates the flavor.
- Graham Crackers: Substitute with digestive biscuits or cinnamon cookies for added spice.
- Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute without losing creaminess.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake (Step-by-Step)
Creating a cinnamon roll cheesecake may sound like a fancy endeavor, but with this detailed guide, you’ll find it’s surprisingly simple to bring this indulgent dessert to life. The combination of creamy cheesecake and swirls of cinnamon makes this treat a showstopper for any occasion. Let’s dive into the steps to create the ultimate cinnamon roll cheesecake!
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients
Before you begin, ensure you have all the ingredients and tools ready. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it and lining the base with parchment paper. Organization is key to crafting the perfect cinnamon roll cheesecake!
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Crust
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: Combine 2 cups of crushed graham crackers (or cinnamon-flavored cookies) with 6 tablespoons of melted butter in a bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand.
- Press and Pre-Bake: Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes to firm up the crust, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream the Base: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat 24 ounces (3 blocks) of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing to prevent air from being incorporated.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Blend in 3 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in 1 cup of sour cream, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This spiced filling forms the heart of your cinnamon roll cheesecake.
- Scrape and Smooth: Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring a consistent and lump-free filling.
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Topping
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Blend until smooth and thick.
- Set Aside: Keep this mixture ready to swirl into the cheesecake filling. This step adds the signature cinnamon roll flavor to your cinnamon roll cheesecake.
Step 5: Assemble the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Layer the Filling and Swirl: Pour half of the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon swirl topping over the filling and use a knife to create marbled patterns.
- Repeat: Add the remaining cheesecake filling and repeat the swirling process with the remaining cinnamon mixture. The swirling technique ensures every bite of your cinnamon roll cheesecake has that iconic cinnamon flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake
- Set Up a Water Bath: Wrap the outside of the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent any leaks. Set the springform pan inside a large roasting pan, then pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This gentle baking method prevents cracks.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for one hour. Gradual cooling minimizes the risk of cracks on your cinnamon roll cheesecake.
Step 7: Chill the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. This chilling time helps the flavors blend tod the texture to firm up nicely.
Step 8: Add the Glaze and Serve
- Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, mix 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 5 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk or sugar as needed.
- Drizzle the Glaze: Pour the glaze over the chilled cheesecake, letting it drip attractively down the sides.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice your cinnamon roll cheesecake and serve. Garnish with whipped cream or a light dusting of cinnamon for an extra touch.
Expert Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Prevents lumps in the filling.
- Water Bath: Ensures even baking and prevents cracks.
- Cool Gradually: Avoid sudden temperature changes to maintain texture.
- Sharp Knife for Swirls: Forms unique patterns in the batter.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
- Vegan: Replace cream cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives.
- Add Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce for extra decadence.
- Seasonal Spices: Add nutmeg or cloves for a holiday twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw at room temperature or enjoy straight from the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or chai for a cozy treat.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve with fresh berries for a delightful burst of brightness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How should I store Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake to keep it fresh the longest?
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help preserve the delicious flavors and creamy texture. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw at room temperature, or gently heat in the microwave for a short time.
Can I make cinnamon roll cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cinnamon roll cheesecake is a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it up to two days in advance, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator. This resting time enhances the flavors and ensures a firm texture. Add the glaze just before serving for the best presentation.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
While a springform pan is ideal for cheesecakes due to its removable sides, you can use a deep, round cake pan as an alternative. Be sure to line the pan with parchment paper and grease it well to make removal easier. However, note that you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
Related Recipes
If you’re a fan of the sweet and spiced flavors of cinnamon roll cheesecake, here are a few other desserts that might tickle your taste buds:
- Cinnamon Roll Cake: A classic take on cinnamon roll flavors in cake form.
- Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake: Perfect for brunch or a morning treat.
- Cinnamon Bun Cookies: Bite-sized versions of your favorite pastry.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the perfect treat for all cinnamon enthusiasts. With its creamy texture, cinnamon-sugar swirls, and decadent glaze, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, this cinnamon roll cheesecake promises to deliver comfort and joy in every bite. So grab your apron and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!