Dreamy Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe: Sweet Swirls of Joy

Creamy cheesecake meets classic cinnamon roll in a dessert that’ll make your taste buds dance with pure delight.

Sweet swirls of cinnamon weave through rich, velvety cream cheese layers that promise an irresistible experience.

Our recipe blends the best of both worlds, crafting a decadent treat that feels like a warm hug.

Imagine diving into a slice where soft cheese meets spicy cinnamon in perfect harmony.

Each bite tells a story of comfort and indulgence, blending familiar flavors in an unexpected way.

Buttery graham cracker crust provides a delicious foundation for this dreamy dessert that feels like pure magic.

The secret lies in balancing delicate textures and bold spices, creating something truly memorable.

You’ll want to savor every single crumb of this incredible masterpiece.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Questions Answered

• Why is a water bath important when baking cheesecake?

A water bath helps create a gentle, even heat around the cheesecake, preventing cracks and ensuring a smooth, creamy texture by protecting the delicate eggs from direct high heat.

• Can I skip the swirling step in the cinnamon filling?

No, swirling is crucial for creating beautiful marbled patterns and distributing the cinnamon flavor throughout the cheesecake. It adds visual appeal and ensures each bite has a delicious cinnamon taste.

• How do I know when the cheesecake is perfectly baked?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly (like a soft pudding). It will continue to set as it cools, so avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy texture.

• What if my cream cheese frosting is too runny?

If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to firm up. You can also add a bit more powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency for spreading or piping.

Why Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Is The Best Of Both Worlds

• Indulge in Decadent Layers: This cinnamon roll cheesecake combines the best of two beloved desserts, creating a luxurious treat with rich cream cheese and warm cinnamon swirls that melt in your mouth.
• Master a Showstopping Dessert: Despite its impressive appearance, the recipe is surprisingly approachable for home bakers, with clear step-by-step instructions that guide you to create a professional-looking dessert that will wow family and friends.
• Perfect for Special Celebrations: Whether it's a holiday gathering, birthday, or weekend treat, this cheesecake elevates any occasion with its bakery-style presentation and irresistible flavor combination of creamy cheesecake and cinnamon roll essence.
• Comfort in Every Slice: The water bath technique ensures a silky-smooth texture, while the cinnamon swirls and cream cheese frosting provide a nostalgic, comforting taste that brings warmth and joy to every bite.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Ingredient Lineup

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base with a sweet, crisp texture that provides a solid foundation for the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
• Cinnamon: Brings a warm, aromatic flavor to complement the crust.
• Butter: Melted butter helps hold the crust ingredients together and creates a rich, golden base.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its creamy, tangy core. Use full-fat, room temperature cream cheese for best results.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the tanginess of cream cheese.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to create a smooth, rich texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a deep, warm flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Eggs: Bind the filling and help it set during baking. Use large, room temperature eggs.

• Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Butter: Create a rich, swirled cinnamon mixture with deep caramel notes.
• Powdered Sugar: Gives the frosting a smooth, sweet consistency.
• Cream Cheese, Butter: Form the base of the creamy frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the frosting flavor.
• Milk: Adjusts the frosting consistency if needed.

Step By Step Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Instructions

Step 1: Craft the Crispy Base

Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and a dash of cinnamon in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture feels like slightly damp beach sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Use a flat-bottomed glass to compact the crust perfectly. Pop into a preheated oven at 325F and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cinnamon Swirl

• Melted butter
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon

Stir until the ingredients create a luscious, fragrant mixture. Set aside for later magic.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Cheesecake Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and beat cream cheese until silky smooth. Fold in granulated sugar until fully incorporated. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until the texture becomes luxuriously creamy. Gently introduce eggs one by one, mixing on low speed to keep the mixture light and airy.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Drizzle half of the cinnamon mixture across the surface. Use a knife to create mesmerizing swirl patterns. Repeat the layering process with remaining filling and cinnamon mix, creating a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Nestle the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Fill the outer pan with steaming hot water, reaching halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Slide into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The center should wobble slightly when gently shaken. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest for one hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Whisk Up the Dreamy Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until ultra-smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If the frosting seems too thick, splash in a bit of milk until it reaches the perfect spreading consistency.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Generously spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting across the top. Slice into decadent portions and serve chilled. Watch as everyone falls in love with each creamy, cinnamon-swirled bite!

Helpful Tips For Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

• Prevent Cracking Cheesecake: Use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing to create a smooth, crack-free surface. Gently fold eggs into the mixture to maintain a silky texture.
• Master the Water Bath Technique: Wrap the springform pan thoroughly with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage. Fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the pan for even, gentle baking that prevents cracks and ensures a creamy consistency.
• Create Perfect Swirl Patterns: Use a thin knife or skewer to create elegant swirl designs. Drag the utensil gently through the cinnamon and cheesecake layers, making figure-eight or zigzag motions for a professional-looking marbled effect.
• Chill for Maximum Flavor: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to develop and texture to set completely. This resting time helps the cheesecake firm up and enhances its rich, creamy taste.
• Frost with Finesse: Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for smooth, lump-free frosting. Adjust the consistency by adding milk gradually, creating a spreadable or pipeable topping that complements the cheesecake perfectly.

Storage Help For Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

• Refrigerate the cheesecake immediately after cooling to maintain its creamy texture and prevent bacterial growth.
• Store the dessert in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap to preserve freshness and prevent absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Keep the cheesecake in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf, where temperature remains most consistent.
• Enjoy your delicious cheesecake within 3-5 days for optimal taste and quality.
• For longer storage, freeze individual slices or the whole cheesecake wrapped securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 1 month.
• When ready to enjoy a frozen slice, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to prevent condensation and maintain the perfect texture.

Perfect Pairings For Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

• Enhance with Spiced Coffee Companion: Pair this decadent cinnamon roll cheesecake with a warm mug of spiced coffee featuring hints of nutmeg and cardamom, which perfectly complement the dessert's rich cinnamon notes.
• Match with Caramel Apple Cider: Serve alongside a chilled caramel apple cider to create a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy flavors that echo the cheesecake's warm cinnamon undertones.
• Create a Dessert Wine Experience: Select a late harvest Riesling or moscato, whose honeyed sweetness and light fruity profile will beautifully balance the creamy cheesecake's dense texture.
• Elevate with Toasted Pecan Accompaniment: Sprinkle some lightly toasted pecans around the plated cheesecake to add a delightful crunch and nutty depth that enhances the dessert's complex flavor profile.

Fun Variations Of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

• Nutty Cinnamon Crunch: Replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed pecans or almonds in the crust. Sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top of the frosting for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Caramel Swirl Edition: Drizzle caramel sauce between the cheesecake and cinnamon layers. Add a caramel drizzle on top of the frosting for a rich, gooey touch that complements the cinnamon flavor.
• Chocolate Lover's Remix: Mix melted dark chocolate into half of the cheesecake batter. Create a marbled effect by swirling the chocolate and original cheesecake layers together before baking.
• Apple Cinnamon Fusion: Fold finely diced fresh apples into the cheesecake filling. Sprinkle additional cinnamon and top with a quick apple compote for a fruity autumn-inspired version.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent cinnamon roll cheesecake blends classic pastry charm with creamy dessert magic. Layers of sweet cinnamon swirl and rich cream cheese create a divine fusion that invites pure dessert bliss.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 32 ounces (907 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

Cheesecake Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream, at room temperature
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

Spice and Topping Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
• ½ tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Craft a buttery, spiced foundation by pulverizing graham crackers with sugar and cinnamon, then binding with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into a foil-wrapped springform pan, creating a compact base. Toast in the oven at 325F for 10 minutes to enhance flavor and stability.
2. Concoct a rich cinnamon drizzle by whisking melted butter with brown sugar and ground cinnamon until smooth and glossy. Reserve this aromatic mixture for layering.
3. Transform cream cheese into a silky canvas by beating until luxuriously creamy. Integrate granulated sugar, then gently fold in sour cream and vanilla. Introduce eggs individually, blending minimally to maintain a delicate texture.
4. Orchestrate the cheesecake’s architecture by carefully pouring half the cream cheese mixture over the golden crust. Cascade half the cinnamon elixir across the surface, then artfully swirl with a knife to create mesmerizing marble patterns. Repeat the layering technique with remaining ingredients.
5. Envelop the cheesecake in a steamy water bath, submerging the pan halfway in hot water. Bake for approximately one hour until the center maintains a subtle tremor. Allow the dessert to gradually cool inside the oven with the door slightly ajar, preventing sudden temperature shifts.
6. Whip up a luxurious cream cheese frosting by blending softened cream cheese with butter until cloudlike. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla, adjusting consistency with milk if necessary.
7. Liberate the cheesecake from its pan, adorning the surface with decadent frosting. Slice and present this magnificent dessert thoroughly chilled, revealing intricate swirls and inviting layers.

Notes

• Achieving the perfect crust requires pressing firmly and evenly to create a solid base that won’t crumble when serving.
• Control water bath temperature by using hot water to prevent temperature shock and ensure even baking for a smooth, crack-free cheesecake.
• Room temperature ingredients are crucial for creating a silky, lump-free cheesecake filling that blends seamlessly.
• Reduce sugar content by substituting with natural sweeteners or using less for a less sweet version that highlights the cinnamon flavor.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 415
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg