There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of warm cinnamon, rich cheesecake, and a buttery graham cracker crust. If you love classic cinnamon rolls and creamy cheesecake, then this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for you! Imagine a silky-smooth cheesecake infused with swirls of cinnamon-sugar goodness, all topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze—pure indulgence in every bite.
This recipe is perfect for busy moms, home bakers, or anyone who wants to impress guests with a show-stopping dessert. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend treat, or just because you deserve something sweet, this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the best of both worlds—rich, creamy cheesecake infused with the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of smooth vanilla cheesecake and warm, buttery cinnamon swirls, all nestled on a sweet graham cracker crust.
If you love decadent yet easy-to-make desserts, this recipe is for you! It’s perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—because who can resist cheesecake and cinnamon rolls combined? Once you try this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
One of the best things about this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients to create an indulgent and unforgettable dessert. Each component plays a crucial role in making this cheesecake rich, creamy, and packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness.
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers (or cinnamon graham crackers for extra flavor)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake combines all the best parts of a cinnamon roll—warm spices, creamy texture, and a buttery crust—all in one incredible dessert. Once you have your ingredients ready, you’re just a few simple steps away from pure cinnamon-spiced bliss!
How to Make the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake to life! The process is simple, and each step ensures you get that perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, warm cinnamon swirls, and a buttery crust. Follow along, and soon you’ll have a dessert that tastes like a warm hug in every bite!
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this crust firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air. This creates the creamy, luscious base of your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake.
Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust, then drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture for a beautiful marbled effect.
Bake the Cheesecake
Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the dish until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. This water bath helps prevent cracks. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Cool and Glaze
Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly for about an hour. Then, transfer it to the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). Before serving, whisk together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle over the top of your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake and enjoy every creamy, cinnamon-filled bite!
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Want to make sure your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake turns out absolutely perfect? These tips will help you avoid common mistakes and take your cheesecake to the next level. From achieving the creamiest texture to mastering the perfect cinnamon swirl, here’s how to make this dessert flawless every time!
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
For the smoothest cheesecake filling, always use room-temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream. Cold ingredients don’t blend as easily and can lead to a lumpy batter. Softened cream cheese ensures a velvety, rich texture for your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Mixing too much air into your cheesecake batter can cause cracks while baking. Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, but once you add the eggs, mix at a low speed just until combined. This will keep your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake dense and creamy.
3. Perfect the Cinnamon Swirl
To get that signature cinnamon swirl, drizzle the cinnamon-sugar mixture in layers and use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl it into the batter. Be careful not to overdo it—too much swirling can blend the layers instead of creating defined ribbons of cinnamon goodness.
4. Use a Water Bath for Even Baking
A water bath (bain-marie) is key to preventing cracks and ensuring an even, gentle bake. Wrap your springform pan in foil and place it in a larger baking dish filled with hot water. This keeps your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake from drying out and gives it a smooth, silky texture.
5. Chill for the Best Flavor
Cheesecake tastes best when it has had time to set and develop its flavors. Let your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.
6. Drizzle the Glaze Just Before Serving
For the ultimate finishing touch, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cheesecake right before serving. This keeps it fresh and ensures that every bite has the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and cinnamon-spiced sweetness.
Follow these tips, and your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake will turn out bakery-quality every single time!
Serving Suggestions for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Now that your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is perfectly baked, cooled, and drizzled with a luscious cream cheese glaze, it’s time to serve it up! Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dessert at home or bringing it to a special gathering, here are some creative and delicious ways to make every bite even more indulgent.
1. Classic Style – Just as It Is
Sometimes, simplicity is best! Serve a chilled slice of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake on its own to let the flavors shine. The rich, creamy filling and cinnamon-swirled goodness already create a perfect bite. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea for a comforting treat.
2. Warm It Up for a Gooey Experience
For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, microwave a slice of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for about 10-15 seconds. This makes the cinnamon swirl extra gooey and enhances the comforting flavors. A warm cheesecake slice paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Absolute heaven!
3. Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream
A light, fluffy whipped cream topping adds a nice contrast to the rich texture of the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake.
4. Pair with Caramel or Maple Syrup
Drizzling warm caramel or maple syrup over a slice takes this dessert to another level. The deep, buttery flavors of caramel pair beautifully with the cinnamon and cream cheese, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
5. Serve It as a Holiday Dessert
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake makes an excellent holiday dessert, especially for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Serve it alongside classics like apple pie, pecan pie, or spiced eggnog for the ultimate festive spread.
No matter how you serve it, this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. Just grab a fork, take a bite, and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness!
Recommended Recipes to Pair with Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
If you love the warm, comforting flavors of this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, why stop there? Pairing it with other delicious treats can create a well-rounded dessert experience, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging in a weekend baking spree. Here are some amazing recipes from Milestone Recipes that complement this cheesecake perfectly!
1. Churro Cheesecake
Looking for another cinnamon-spiced delight? This churro cheesecake features a crispy cinnamon-sugar crust with a creamy cheesecake filling, making it the perfect companion to your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake. Serve both together for a dessert spread that’s packed with flavor and nostalgia.
2. Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
If you want to mix things up with a little chocolate and peanut butter, this Reese’s caramel cheesecake is the way to go! The combination of rich caramel, peanut butter, and chocolate pairs beautifully with the cinnamon warmth of your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, giving you a decadent dessert duo.
3. Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake
For those who love a fruity contrast, this lemon blueberry cheesecake is a refreshing option. The bright citrus and juicy berries cut through the richness of the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, offering a balance of flavors that will keep your taste buds excited.
Notes on the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Before you dive into making this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, here are a few extra tips to help you get the best results every time.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. Low-fat versions can make the cheesecake less rich and slightly watery.
- Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best flavor and texture. While four hours is the minimum, an overnight chill allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
- For a firmer crust, press it down tightly using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup. This ensures it holds up well under the cheesecake filling.
- Don’t rush the cooling process! Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven before transferring it to the fridge—this prevents cracks.
By following these notes, your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake will turn out perfectly creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible!
FAQs About Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Got questions? Here are some of the most common ones to ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake turns out perfect every time!
1. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Using a water bath and allowing your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as too much air can cause it to rise and crack when cooling.
2. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays and gatherings.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Enjoy your perfectly baked Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake with confidence!
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about the warm, comforting flavors of this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake. For Miranda, it brings back memories of baking with her grandmother, surrounded by the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar. Now, it’s your turn to create those same cherished moments in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re making this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for a family gathering, a holiday treat, or just because you deserve something sweet, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dessert that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. Happy baking!
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Easy Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert fusion—rich, creamy cheesecake swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. It’s the perfect treat for cinnamon roll lovers who want something extra indulgent!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers (or cinnamon graham crackers)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, then press into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for the swirl.
- Pour half the cheesecake batter over the crust, drizzle with half the cinnamon mixture, and swirl. Repeat with the remaining batter and swirl.
- Bake in a water bath for 50-55 minutes, then let cool in the oven before chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Drizzle over cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually to prevent cracks.
- Store in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for up to two months.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake