Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Oh my goodness, I just discovered the yummiest treat ever. It’s called Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake. I can’t wait to tell you all about it!

Picture a soft cinnamon roll. Now add a rich cheesecake layer. It’s like two treats in one, and it’s totally mind-blowing!

I still dream about that ooey-gooey cinnamon swirl. The creamy cheesecake part melts in my mouth. I crave it all the time!

You really have to try it right now. Go grab a slice or whip one up. Trust me, you’ll be so happy you did!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two Classics in One: The comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls meet the creamy decadence of cheesecake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a show-stopping holiday dessert, birthday treat, or weekend indulgence.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This cheesecake tastes even better after chilling, making it a great prep-ahead option.
• Rich and Velvety Texture: The balance of tangy cream cheese, warm cinnamon, and buttery crust creates an irresistible bite.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit among cinnamon roll lovers and cheesecake fans alike.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Chill Time: At least 4 hours (overnight preferred)
• Total Time: 5 hours+ (includes chilling)

Servings:

• Makes 12-14 slices—perfect for sharing or indulging solo over a few days.

Difficulty:

• Moderate—Beginners can handle it with careful steps, while experienced bakers will enjoy the process.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, ensure you have the following tools ready:

✔ 9-inch Springform Pan – Essential for easy cheesecake removal.
✔ Mixing Bowls – For preparing the crust, cinnamon swirl, and cheesecake batter.
✔ Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – To achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
✔ Saucepan – For melting butter and preparing the cinnamon swirl.
✔ Spatula – Helps fold ingredients gently without over-mixing.
✔ Whisk – For blending sugars and dry ingredients.
✔ Oven Thermometer – Ensures accurate baking temperature.
✔ Water Bath Setup (Optional) – Helps prevent cracks for a perfectly smooth cheesecake.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Each layer of this cheesecake is carefully crafted for the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and spiced flavors. Below are the ingredients you’ll need:

Graham Cracker Crust

This buttery crust provides a sturdy and flavorful base.

• 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs – Classic, slightly sweet, and crisp.
• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar – Adds depth with a hint of molasses.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice.
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crust together.

Cinnamon Roll Swirl

This gooey cinnamon sugar swirl creates the signature cinnamon roll effect.

• ⅓ cup (65g) brown sugar – Caramelizes beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the swirl.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – Bold cinnamon flavor.
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted – Helps spread the swirl evenly.

Cheesecake Batter

The rich, velvety heart of the dessert.

• 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened – Full-fat for ultimate creaminess.
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – Enhances the cinnamon roll flavor.
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar – Balances sweetness.
• ½ cup (120g) sour cream – Adds a slight tang and smooth texture.
• 3 large eggs, room temperature – Helps with structure.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.

Cream Cheese Frosting

A classic cinnamon roll-style glaze to finish it off.

• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened – Velvety smooth texture.
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor.
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) heavy whipping cream – Creates a drizzle consistency.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder – For extra warmth.

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

You can personalize this cheesecake with different ingredients or flavors:

• Make It Extra Decadent: Swirl in caramel sauce for a richer dessert.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers and a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for crunch.
• Pumpkin Spice Version: Swap cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired version.
• Chocolate Cinnamon Swirl: Mix in melted dark chocolate for a cocoa-infused cinnamon swirl.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Ingredients – In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until evenly coated.
3. Press into the Pan – Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the pan using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass.
4. Bake the Crust – Place in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Roll Swirl

1. Combine the Ingredients – In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until a thick, smooth paste forms.
2. Set Aside – Keep this mixture at room temperature so it’s easy to swirl into the cheesecake batter later.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter

1. Beat the Cream Cheese – In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese on medium speed using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add the Sugars – Add brown sugar and granulated sugar, then beat until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in the Sour Cream, Vanilla, and Salt – Beat until smooth and well combined.
4. Add the Eggs One at a Time – Reduce the speed to low and mix in the eggs, one at a time, until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can introduce too much air and cause cracks.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour Half the Batter – Spread half of the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
2. Swirl in the Cinnamon Mixture – Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Use a toothpick or knife to create swirls.
3. Repeat the Layers – Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon mixture. Swirl again gently.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Prepare a Water Bath (Optional, but Recommended) – Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
2. Bake – Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes at 325°F (163°C), or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set.
3. Turn Off the Oven & Cool Gradually – Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
4. Chill – Remove from the oven and let it come to room temperature before covering and chilling in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight preferred).

Serving and Decoration

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the Cream Cheese – In a medium bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the Sugar and Vanilla – Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
3. Thin Out the Frosting – Add heavy whipping cream gradually and beat until the frosting reaches a smooth, drizzle-like consistency.
4. Add Cinnamon – Stir in ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder for extra warmth.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

1. Release from the Pan – Once fully chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
2. Drizzle the Frosting – Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the top in a classic cinnamon roll pattern.
3. Optional Garnishes – Sprinkle with extra cinnamon or crushed graham crackers for added texture.
4. Slice and Serve – Cut into 12-14 slices using a sharp knife, wiping it clean between slices for neat cuts.

How to Store Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Refrigeration (Best for Freshness)

• Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Keeps fresh for 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing (For Longer Storage)

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating (For a Warm Cinnamon Roll Effect)

• Let slices sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
• Microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly warm the frosting.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~480
Carbohydrates	52g
Protein	7g
Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	16g
Cholesterol	110mg
Sodium	280mg
Sugar	38g
Fiber	1g

Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake FAQs

1. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

• Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent excess air bubbles.
• Use a water bath and allow slow cooling in the oven.

2. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This cheesecake actually tastes better the next day after fully chilling. Prepare up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

4. What if I don’t have a springform pan?

A deep 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper can work, but removal will be trickier.

5. How can I make it even more like a cinnamon roll?

• Add a streusel topping before baking for a crunchy finish.
• Swirl extra cinnamon-sugar mixture on top before serving.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the cozy warmth of cinnamon rolls and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake. With its buttery graham cracker crust, rich cheesecake filling, and signature cinnamon swirl, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. The creamy frosting ties it all together, making each bite taste just like a classic cinnamon roll in cheesecake form.

This cheesecake is ideal for make-ahead desserts, holiday gatherings, and special occasions—or simply when you want something extra special. Whether you enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge or slightly warmed for a gooey, cinnamon-filled treat, it’s guaranteed to impress.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Happy baking!