Introduction

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy cheesecakes and gooey, spiced cinnamon rolls, then Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for you. This heavenly creation combines the best of both worlds—smooth and velvety cheesecake with a delicious cinnamon swirl, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just love indulging in decadent sweets, this cheesecake is bound to be your next favorite dessert.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, including an easy-to-follow recipe, variations, tips for making it perfect, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive in!

What is Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake?

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that merges the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the creamy texture of cheesecake. It typically consists of:

• A graham cracker or cinnamon-flavored crust
• A creamy cheesecake filling
• A cinnamon-sugar swirl
• A rich cream cheese frosting or glaze

This dessert is a great option for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or when you want to impress your guests with a show-stopping sweet treat.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients

To make a delicious Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed cinnamon cookies)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup melted butter

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
2. Set aside for swirling into the cheesecake batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until creamy and well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
2. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
3. Add the remaining cheesecake batter and swirl the rest of the cinnamon mixture on top.
4. Use a knife to create a marbled effect by swirling the cinnamon mixture into the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and add about 1 inch of hot water (water bath method to prevent cracks).
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 30 minutes.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Drizzle over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Variations of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake with Recipes

1. Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• Same ingredients as the main cheesecake recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust as directed and press it into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Follow the cheesecake batter and cinnamon swirl preparation steps.
3. Pour the batter into the pan and swirl in the cinnamon mixture.
4. Bake at 325°F for 40-45 minutes until set.
5. Cool and cut into bars before serving.

2. No-Bake Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• Same as the main recipe, but replace eggs with 1 tablespoon gelatin dissolved in 2 tablespoons warm water.

Instructions:

1. Mix and press the crust into a pan and chill.
2. Prepare the cheesecake filling without eggs, adding dissolved gelatin instead.
3. Pour the filling into the crust and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
4. Swirl the cinnamon mixture on top before serving.

3. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• Replace graham cracker crumbs with 1 1/2 cups almond flour.
• Use gluten-free vanilla extract.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust using almond flour instead of graham crackers.
2. Follow the same steps for cheesecake filling and cinnamon swirl.
3. Bake as directed and enjoy a gluten-free version!

4. Keto Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• Crust: 1 1/2 cups almond flour, 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 tablespoons erythritol
• Filling: Replace sugar with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust by mixing almond flour, melted butter, and erythritol, then press into a pan.
2. Follow the same cheesecake batter instructions, replacing sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener.
3. Bake at 325°F for 50 minutes.
4. Serve with a sugar-free cream cheese frosting.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter to avoid too much air, which can cause cracks.
• Bake in a water bath to keep the cheesecake moist and prevent cracks.
• Chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
• Swirl gently to create a marbled look without overmixing.

Frequently Asked Questions