If you adore the cozy flavors of freshly baked cinnamon rolls and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert obsession. Imagine swirls of warm cinnamon and brown sugar baked right into a rich, velvety cheesecake base, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something spectacularly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the smooth cream cheese base to the cinnamon swirl that brings that signature warmth and sweetness.
- Cream cheese (24 oz, softened): The creamy foundation for the cheesecake, providing richness and that classic tang.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances the cream cheese with sweetness that’s subtle and smooth.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds moisture and a slight tartness that enhances the overall creaminess.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses warmth and depth of flavor to the cheesecake batter.
- Large eggs (4): Bind the cheesecake together and help create a silky texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted, plus 1/4 cup softened): Provides richness in the cinnamon roll layer and the frosting.
- Brown sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens and caramelizes the cinnamon swirl beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Brings that quintessential cinnamon roll spice and aroma.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Gives structure to the cinnamon roll layer without overwhelming the cheesecake.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Helps the cinnamon roll batter rise perfectly.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened) for frosting: Creates a smooth, tangy finish on top.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the frosting to perfection with a delicate texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) for frosting: Adds a subtle aromatic lift to the cream cheese frosting.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to the right temperature to ensure even baking. Grease a springform pan or line it with parchment paper, which is essential to easily remove your cheesecake later without any damage. Taking this step carefully means your dessert will have that perfect presentation.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Batter
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s flawlessly smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract. One by one, add the eggs, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This results in a silky, well-mixed cheesecake base, the perfect canvas for your cinnamon roll layer.
Step 3: Prepare and Layer the Cinnamon Roll Batter
Next, in a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, baking powder, and salt to create the cinnamon roll batter. Spread the cheesecake batter evenly in your pan, then carefully layer the cinnamon roll batter on top. This layering forms those beautiful, swirled cinnamon pockets that make this recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Bake Until Set and Cooling
Place the springform pan in the oven and bake until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures creamy texture. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before moving on to frosting. Patience here guarantees the frosting will spread beautifully without melting.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat together softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until your frosting is smooth and fluffy. Spread this creamy topping generously over the cooled cheesecake. This step adds an extra layer of indulgence that perfectly complements the spicy cinnamon below.
Step 6: Refrigerate for Optimal Taste
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for several hours, ideally overnight. This allows flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, making every bite rich, creamy, and utterly delightful.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Keep the garnishes simple to let the cheesecake shine—sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or add toasted pecans for a crunch contrast. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the flavors without overpowering the cinnamon roll notes.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a brunch spread, serve slices alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra freshness and sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the cheesecake into mini squares and serve them as bite-sized treats at parties. Alternatively, layer it in parfait glasses with a little extra cinnamon sugar and whipped cream for a stunning presentation that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well wrapped or in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Freezing
You can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to retain its luscious texture without becoming soggy.
Reheating
This cheesecake is typically best enjoyed chilled. However, if you prefer, briefly warming a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can bring out the cinnamon aroma, but be cautious not to overheat and alter the texture.
FAQs
Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a springform pan?
While a springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake without ruining its shape, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper on the sides for easier removal. Just let the cheesecake cool well before attempting to take it out.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. This adjustment won’t compromise the flavor but ensures it’s safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe ahead for a party?
Definitely! This cheesecake actually tastes better after resting a day because the flavors meld perfectly. Prepare it the day before your event and keep it refrigerated until serving.
What’s the best way to achieve those cinnamon swirls?
Layering carefully is key—spread the cinnamon roll batter gently and evenly over the cheesecake batter without mixing them together completely. The contrast between layers creates those signature swirls during baking.
Can I add nuts to the cinnamon roll layer?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled into the cinnamon roll batter for extra texture and flavor, as long as you fold them in gently so they don’t disrupt the swirls.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe is one of those feel-good desserts that bring warmth and joy with every forkful. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, give this recipe a try. It’s sure to become a beloved classic in your dessert repertoire, impressing everyone with its perfect blend of cinnamon sweetness and creamy richness.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Decadent and irresistibly creamy Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake combining the rich flavors of classic cheesecake with the sweet, spicy swirl of cinnamon roll batter, finished with a luscious vanilla cream cheese frosting. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dessert treat.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Batter
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
Cinnamon Roll Swirl
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare springform pan. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare cheesecake batter and layer in pan. In a large mixing bowl, beat the 24 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and mix until combined. Incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract, then add the eggs one at a time, fully mixing after each addition. Pour this cheesecake batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Create cinnamon roll batter and spread over cheesecake layer. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms. Carefully spread or dollop this cinnamon roll batter over the cheesecake layer, creating swirls or an even layer as preferred.
- Bake until set and allow to cool. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55 to 65 minutes, or until the cheesecake is mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate to chill thoroughly, at least 3 hours.
- Prepare frosting and spread over cooled cheesecake. While the cheesecake chills, beat together the softened 4 oz cream cheese and 1/4 cup butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then fold in the vanilla extract. Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate before serving for optimal taste. Return the frosted cheesecake to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set and the flavors to meld before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream to achieve a rich and creamy texture.
- Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- The cinnamon roll batter can be swirled lightly to create a marbled effect or spread evenly for a distinct layer.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To serve, bring the cheesecake to room temperature for about 15 minutes for easier slicing.
