Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Top-Notch Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe: A Dreamy Fusion Dessert

Cinnamon roll cheesecake blends two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat that sparks pure culinary magic.

Sweet swirls of warm spice dance through creamy layers of rich, decadent filling.

Soft pastry notes intertwine with classic cheesecake textures, creating a harmonious symphony of indulgence.

The combination promises a delightful experience that converts ordinary dessert moments into extraordinary memories.

Delicate cinnamon undertones weave through each luxurious bite, tempting taste buds with complex flavor profiles.

Bakers seeking a showstopping dessert will find this recipe both challenging and remarkably rewarding.

Sophisticated yet approachable, this dessert bridges traditional comfort with modern culinary creativity.

Why Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Combines the Best of Two Desserts

  • Swirl Sensational Layers: This cheesecake delivers mind-blowing visual and taste complexity with alternating cinnamon roll filling and creamy cheesecake layers, creating a stunning marbled effect that teases both eyes and palate.
  • Bake with Precision Technique: The water bath method ensures a silky-smooth, crack-free cheesecake texture by providing gentle, even heating that prevents surface disruptions and maintains perfect moisture throughout baking.
  • Decadent Flavor Fusion: Combining classic cheesecake richness with warm cinnamon roll sweetness creates an irresistible dessert that merges two beloved treats into one spectacular culinary experience, satisfying multiple dessert cravings simultaneously.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Celebration Dessert: Perfect for special occasions like holidays, birthdays, or potlucks, this cheesecake impresses with its gourmet appearance and complex flavor profile while being surprisingly approachable for home bakers.

What Goes Into This Swirled and Spiced Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Crackers: Classic base with a sweet, crumbly texture, choose fresh crackers for the best result.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust together, unsalted preferred for better control of saltiness.
  • Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic flavor to the crust base.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps crisp the crust.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Core ingredient for creamy texture, full-fat version recommended for richness.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake base, granulated white sugar works best.
  • Flour: Helps stabilize and thicken the cheesecake mixture.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and smooth consistency.
  • Eggs: Provides structure and helps set the cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
  • Lemon Juice: Balances richness and adds subtle brightness.
Cinnamon Roll Filling and Glaze Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: Creates classic cinnamon roll flavor profile.
  • Butter: Binds the cinnamon filling and adds richness.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides smooth base for glaze.
  • Heavy Cream: Helps create the right consistency for drizzling.

How to Make Cheesecake That Tastes Like a Cinnamon Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Base

Warm up your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Crush graham crackers in a food processor until they become fine crumbs.

Add ingredients to create the base:
  • Melted butter
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Granulated sugar

Press the mixture into an 8 or 9-inch springform pan, covering the bottom and sides.

Bake for 8 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.

Lower oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).

Step 2: Create Swirly Cinnamon Filling

Mix dry ingredients in a bowl:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Pour melted butter into the mixture and blend until smooth and gooey.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Cheesecake Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese until silky smooth.

Combine ingredients:
  • Flour
  • White sugar
  • Sour cream
  • Vanilla extract
  • Lemon juice

Gently fold in eggs one at a time, creating a velvety texture.

Step 4: Layer and Bake the Dreamy Dessert

Spread one-third of cinnamon filling over the cooled crust.

Pour half the cheesecake batter on top.

Add remaining cinnamon filling.

Cover with remaining cheesecake batter.

Prepare a water bath by placing the pan in a larger pan filled with hot water.

Bake for 90-110 minutes until edges are set and center slightly wiggles.

Turn off oven, let cheesecake rest inside for 15 minutes.

Remove and cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Drizzle with Heavenly Glaze

Whisk together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Heavy cream

Adjust cream quantity for perfect drizzling consistency.

Remove cheesecake from pan.

Generously pour glaze over the top, spreading evenly.

Slice, serve, and enjoy your spectacular cinnamon roll cheesecake!

Tips for a Neat Swirl and Rich Filling

  • Prevent Cracking Secrets: Use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing to create a smooth, crack-free cheesecake surface.
  • Water Bath Magic: Wrap springform pan tightly in aluminum foil to prevent water seepage and ensure even, gentle baking.
  • Temperature Control Pro: Let cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with door closed to minimize sudden temperature changes that cause splitting.
  • Mixing Mastery: Beat cream cheese on lowest mixer speed to incorporate air gently and maintain a silky, dense texture.
  • Glaze Perfection Trick: Adjust heavy cream gradually when making the glaze to achieve the ideal drizzling consistency without becoming too runny or thick.

Storing and Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

  • Refrigerate: Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it in the springform pan or transfer to an airtight container.
  • Freeze: Slice the cheesecake, place parchment paper between slices, and store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Reheat: Enjoy the cheesecake cold or let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture rubbery and compromise the creamy consistency.

Drinks and Sweets That Pair Well with It

  • Brew a Cozy Coffee Companion: Pair this decadent cinnamon roll cheesecake with a warm, freshly brewed cappuccino or a smooth caramel latte. The rich espresso notes will beautifully complement the sweet cinnamon and creamy cheesecake texture.
  • Explore Chilled Beverage Bliss: Cool down the dessert's richness with a crisp glass of cold milk or a vanilla almond milk. These smooth, subtle drinks will balance the cheesecake's intense flavors without overwhelming its delicate profile.
  • Create a Dessert Wine Experience: Elevate the tasting experience with a sweet dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling or a moscato. These light, fruity wines will dance perfectly with the cinnamon's warmth and the cheesecake's creamy decadence.
  • Enhance with Seasonal Sidekick: Serve alongside a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. These simple additions will provide a cool, creamy contrast to the rich, spiced cheesecake layers.

Topping Ideas and Variations to Try

  • Nutty Crunch Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crust with a blend of crushed pecans and graham crackers for added texture and rich, toasted flavor.
  • Coffee-Infused Dream: Mix instant espresso powder into the cheesecake batter for a subtle coffee undertone that complements the cinnamon's warmth.
  • Maple Pecan Swirl: Substitute part of the cinnamon roll filling with maple syrup and sprinkle chopped pecans between cheesecake layers for a decadent autumn-inspired version.
  • Berry Burst Edition: Add a layer of mixed berry compote between the cheesecake batter for a fruity contrast that cuts through the rich, creamy texture.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Cinnamon roll cheesecake marries classic comfort with indulgent dessert magic. Silky cream cheese blends with swirls of warm cinnamon, creating a luxurious treat that melts in your mouth and leaves you craving another slice.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 32 ounces (900 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream
  • 2 cups (250 grams) graham cracker crumbs

Cinnamon and Sugar Components:

  • 1 ¼ cups (250 grams) brown sugar
  • 4 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 4 tablespoons sugar

Flour, Butter, and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 14 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 4 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Craft a Graham Cracker foundation by pulverizing crackers into fine particles, then integrate melted butter, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar until the mixture forms a cohesive texture.
  2. Press the crumbly mixture firmly into the base and slightly up the sides of a springform pan, creating an even layer that will support the creamy layers.
  3. Bake the crust briefly until it sets, then reduce the oven temperature in preparation for the cheesecake’s delicate baking process.
  4. Develop a luscious cinnamon roll filling by blending flour, brown sugar, and aromatic cinnamon with melted butter until achieving a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  5. In a separate mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until velvety, gradually incorporating flour and sugar to create a silky base for the cheesecake.
  6. Introduce sour cream, vanilla extract, and a hint of lemon juice to enhance the cream cheese mixture’s complexity and brightness.
  7. Gently fold eggs into the batter, one at a time, ensuring a uniform and luxurious texture without overmixing.
  8. Layer the cinnamon roll filling in thirds across the prepared crust, alternating with cheesecake batter to create a marbled effect.
  9. Carefully position the assembled cheesecake into a water bath, which will help prevent cracking and ensure even, gentle cooking.
  10. Bake the cheesecake at a low temperature, allowing it to set slowly and develop a creamy, smooth consistency.
  11. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside the oven, then transfer to a cooling rack to stabilize its structure.
  12. Refrigerate the cheesecake overnight to allow flavors to meld and texture to become perfectly dense and rich.
  13. Prepare a decadent cinnamon glaze by whisking powdered sugar and cinnamon, slowly incorporating heavy cream until achieving a smooth, pourable consistency.
  14. Drizzle the glaze over the chilled cheesecake, creating an elegant and tempting final touch that complements the dessert’s complex flavors.

Notes

  • Precise temperature control matters: Lower the oven to 300°F after crust preparation to ensure gentle, even cheesecake baking.
  • Water bath technique prevents cracking and promotes smooth, creamy texture by creating gentle, consistent heat around the cheesecake.
  • Ingredient temperature is crucial: Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for seamless mixing and preventing lumpy batter.
  • Cooling strategy impacts texture: Let cheesecake rest in closed oven after baking, then cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating.
  • Chilling time is non-negotiable: Refrigerate for minimum 8 hours to develop full flavor and allow proper setting of the cheesecake.
  • Glaze consistency matters: Adjust heavy cream gradually to achieve perfect drizzling thickness without becoming too runny or thick.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 110 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 409
  • Sugar: 34 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 97 mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star