Introduction
Cinnamon roll cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This fusion of two beloved treats creates a dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat for yourself. With its layers of cinnamon-spiced goodness and velvety cheesecake, it is bound to impress both your taste buds and your guests. Transitioning smoothly from breakfast-inspired flavors to a rich dessert, cinnamon roll cheesecake is versatile and irresistible. In this article,We’ll cover all the essential details about this decadent dish, from ingredients to history.Discover more about its preparation and allure in our detailed guide to this dessert.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Total Time: 5 hours (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
Description
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake brings together two favorites—warm, cinnamon-spiced sweetness and creamy cheesecake goodness. With a graham cracker crust, swirls of cinnamon sugar, and a light vanilla glaze, this indulgent dessert is perfect for any occasion. Each bite is rich, creamy, and bursting with that classic cinnamon roll flavor. Follow this easy recipe and wow your guests!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp melted butter
For the Cheesecake:
- 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: Mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until you have a thick, spreadable paste.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Beat in eggs, one at a time, mixing until just combined.
- Layer the Cheesecake: Pour half the cheesecake batter over the crust. Add half the cinnamon swirl and gently swirl with a knife. Pour the remaining batter on top, then swirl in the remaining cinnamon mixture.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Chill & Glaze: Once the cheesecake is at room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours (or overnight). Drizzle with glaze before serving.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, try using a Biscoff or Oreo cookie crust.
- To prevent cracks, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven.
- Category: Dessert, Snack
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 140mg

Ingredients for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Crafting a cinnamon roll cheesecake begins with gathering the finest ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the crust:
- Graham crackers or crushed cinnamon-flavored cookies
- Melted butter
- Sugar
For the cheesecake filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
For the cinnamon swirl:
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Melted butter
For the glaze:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk or cream
- Vanilla extract
Every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the unique layers of a cinnamon roll cheesecake. Using high-quality ingredients will significantly impact the flavor and texture. Don’t overlook the importance of fresh spices and cream cheese for the most authentic taste. Transition your preparation into effortless assembly with these vital components.Learn how to perfect similar desserts in our exploration of Mexican cheesecake ingredients.

Step-by-Step Recipe
Creating a cinnamon roll cheesecake is simpler than it seems when broken into manageable steps:
- Prepare the crust: Combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Mix the cheesecake filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add sugar and eggs. Incorporate vanilla extract for a balanced flavor.
- Create the cinnamon swirl: Mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl.
- Layer the ingredients: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust. Drizzle the cinnamon swirl mixture, then top with the remaining batter. Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture gently.
- Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 50-60 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center jiggles slightly.
- Cool and glaze: Let the cheesecake cool completely before adding the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the top for a finishing touch.
Transition from one step to the next with ease, ensuring every layer complements the others for a flawless cinnamon roll cheesecake.

Variations of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Customizing your cinnamon roll cheesecake can add unique twists to the classic recipe. Here are some popular variations:
- Chocolate swirl: Add cocoa powder to the cinnamon mixture for a rich, chocolaty twist.
- Nutty crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for added texture.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and make sure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Mini cheesecakes: Prepare individual portions by using muffin tins instead of a large pan.
These variations provide exciting ways to enjoy cinnamon roll cheesecake while catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. Experimenting with flavors guarantees there’s always something new to try.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Cheesecake Texture
Getting the right texture in your cheesecake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips:
- Always use room-temperature cream cheese to prevent lumps.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to reduce the risk of cracks during baking.
- Bake in a water bath to maintain even heat distribution.
- Let the cheesecake cool slowly inside the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes.
Mastering these techniques guarantees your cinnamon roll turns out creamy and smooth every time.
Storing and Serving Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Proper storage maintains the freshness of your cheesecake. Here are some best practices:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
- Thawing: Transfer frozen slices to the fridge overnight before serving.
When serving, garnish with extra glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a polished look. Proper storage and thoughtful presentation transform your cinnamon roll cheesecake into a show-stopping dessert.
The History of Cheesecake and Cinnamon Rolls
The origins of cinnamon roll cheesecake lie in the rich history of its two primary components. Cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic Games. Over centuries, its preparation evolved, leading to the creamy versions we enjoy today.
Cinnamon rolls, on the other hand, have Swedish roots and are celebrated annually on Cinnamon Roll Day in Sweden. Combining these two iconic desserts resulted in the innovative cinnamon roll cheesecake. This dessert represents a harmonious blend of global culinary traditions.
By appreciating its historical context, you can better understand the artistry behind cinnamon roll cheesecake. This dessert is more than a treat; it’s a tribute to centuries of culinary excellence.
FAQ
Yes, a no-bake version is possible by using gelatin to set the cheesecake filling and skipping the baking step entirely. Be sure to chill it thoroughly before serving.
Using a water bath, not overmixing the batter, and letting the cheesecake cool gradually can help prevent cracks.
Substitute cream cheese and milk with dairy-free alternatives such as almond-based or soy-based products.
Absolutely! Pre-made cinnamon rolls can be baked and used as a base for a unique and flavorful crust.
Serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll cheesecake is a dessert that perfectly combines the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the creamy texture of cheesecake. From selecting quality ingredients to mastering preparation techniques, creating this dessert is a rewarding experience. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with creative variations, this treat is bound to delight everyone who tastes it. By following proper storage and serving practices, you can enjoy your cheesecake for days to come. Celebrate its rich history and indulge in the perfect harmony of flavors—because cinnamon roll is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to culinary creativity and tradition.
Want even more delicious ideas? Check out our Pinterest page for mouthwatering recipes and kitchen tips!
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