Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake

This cheesecake is everything you love about breakfast and dessert rolled into one. It’s creamy, swirled with cinnamon sugar, and topped with a warm honey glaze that makes it taste like a giant honeybun. I made it on a cozy weekend morning, and it filled the kitchen with the sweetest aroma.

I love how the soft cinnamon flavor mixes with the smooth cheesecake filling. The crust has that rich, buttery taste, and the drizzle on top adds the perfect shine and sweetness. It’s comforting, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make.

If you’re craving something that feels homemade and tastes bakery-perfect, this Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake is it. Let’s bake it together—you’ll fall in love with every creamy, cinnamon-filled bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Best of Both Worlds: Combines the comforting taste of cinnamon rolls with creamy cheesecake.
• Show-Stopping Dessert: Beautiful cinnamon swirls make this cake look as good as it tastes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare a day in advance for stress-free entertaining.
• Crowd Pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults will love this sweet treat.
• Perfect Texture: The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crunchy crust.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: About 5 hours and 20 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes one 9-inch cheesecake, serving 10-12 people. Want more? Double the recipe and use a larger springform pan.

Difficulty: Moderate. Beginners can follow along, but some cheesecake experience helps ensure the best results.

Required Kitchen Tools

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer (hand or stand)
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil
• Small saucepan

Ingredients

This cinnamon roll cheesecake uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The graham cracker crust provides a sturdy base, while cream cheese and sour cream create that signature smooth texture. Brown sugar and cinnamon bring the honey bun flavor to life.

For the Crust:

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake

• Add Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the crust for extra crunch.
• Use Maple Syrup: Replace some of the sugar with maple syrup for deeper flavor.
• Try Cream Cheese Frosting: Use cream cheese frosting instead of the simple glaze.
• Add Nutmeg: Mix a pinch of nutmeg into the cinnamon swirl for warmth.
• Make Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin with cupcake liners for individual servings.

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

1. Prepare the Pan

Wrap the outside of your springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees.

2. Make the Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until the texture looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you make the filling.

3. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. Set this aside.

4. Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Drizzle half of the cinnamon mixture over the filling. Use a knife to swirl it gently. Pour the remaining filling on top, then add the rest of the cinnamon mixture. Swirl again with a knife to create pretty patterns.

6. Bake the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the outer dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath helps the cheesecake bake evenly. Bake for 55 minutes. The center should still jiggle slightly when done.

7. Cool Completely

Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for one hour. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

8. Make the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach a drizzling consistency. Drizzle over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Serving and Decoration

Serve slices of this cheesecake on dessert plates with a fork. The glaze should drip down the sides beautifully. For extra flair, add a dusting of cinnamon on top or a dollop of whipped cream. This dessert pairs wonderfully with hot coffee or cold milk. You can also garnish with a cinnamon stick on each plate for a pretty presentation.

Storing Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake

• Refrigerator: Store covered cheesecake in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor actually improves after a day or two.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Glaze: Add the glaze just before serving if you plan to store the cheesecake for several days.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This prevents lumps in your filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the filling just until combined. Too much mixing adds air bubbles that can cause cracks.
• Water Bath Method: The water bath keeps the cheesecake moist and helps prevent cracks on top.
• Check Doneness: The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. It will firm up as it cools.
• Prevent Cracks: Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps prevent the top from cracking.
• Use a Sharp Knife: Wipe your knife clean between each slice for neat, pretty pieces.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	420
Total Fat	26g
Saturated Fat	15g
Cholesterol	110mg
Sodium	280mg
Total Carbohydrates	42g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	32g
Protein	6g

Values are approximate and based on 12 servings

Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake FAQs

Can I make this without a water bath? Yes, but the water bath helps create a creamy texture and prevents cracks. Without it, your cheesecake may have a drier texture and cracked top.

Why is my cheesecake cracked? Cracks happen from overbaking, overmixing, or cooling too quickly. Follow the slow cooling method and avoid beating too much air into the batter.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Full-fat cream cheese works best for rich flavor and smooth texture. Low-fat versions may make the cheesecake less creamy.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done? The edges should be set and slightly puffed, while the center still jiggles when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up during cooling.

Can I skip the springform pan? A springform pan makes removing the cheesecake much easier. Regular cake pans make it harder to slice and serve neatly.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake brings together everything you love about breakfast pastries and classic desserts. The cinnamon swirl creates beautiful patterns throughout the creamy filling, while the sweet glaze on top adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you make it for a birthday, holiday gathering, or weekend treat, this cheesecake will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite special.

I used graham cracker crumbs, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, cream cheese, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, brown sugar, powdered sugar, and milk to create this delicious recipe.