Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

By Juno

Updated on

Let’s talk about two of life’s greatest desserts: cinnamon rolls and cheesecake. Now imagine smashing them together into one outrageously delicious creation. Yeah, I know—mind blown, right? That’s exactly what you get with a cinnamon roll cheesecake. It’s creamy, cinnamon-y (is that a word?), and downright dreamy. Whether you’re looking to wow your friends or just treat yourself, this dessert is pure gold.

A slice of cinnamon roll cheesecake topped with whipped cream and cinnamon sticks, served on a dark plate with a creamy filling and a golden-brown crust.

Difficulty

Moderate

Prep time

25 mins

Cooking time

70 mins

Servings

12 slices

Craving more cakes? Don’t miss the rich Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake or the fruity Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake—both guaranteed to impress!

Grab a fork, because we’re diving into every sweet detail of this epic recipe—from the graham cracker crust to the cream cheese whipped topping. Let’s get baking!

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Cinnamon roll cheesecake is the ultimate treat that works for just about anything. Hosting a holiday party? It’ll be the centerpiece of your dessert table. Craving something sweet on a lazy Sunday? This cheesecake will make your day 10x better. It’s that versatile. Plus, it’s a total conversation starter—everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Whether it’s a casual brunch with friends or a festive holiday dinner, this dessert adds a touch of indulgence to any meal. And hey, if you’re looking for a new go-to for family celebrations or potlucks, cinnamon roll cheesecake might just become your signature dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

What Makes This Cheesecake Unique?

This isn’t your typical cheesecake. It combines the best parts of two classics: the gooey cinnamon filling you love in a cinnamon roll and the creamy richness of a cheesecake. Add in the swirls of cinnamon and the dreamy whipped topping, and you’ve got something truly special. This dessert isn’t just delicious—it’s unforgettable.

The layered flavors give it a unique charm. The cinnamon filling brings a spicy warmth, while the cheesecake filling provides a cool, tangy contrast. Together, they create a dessert that’s perfectly balanced and impossible to resist. Oh, and don’t forget the graham cracker crust—it adds just the right amount of crunch to every bite.

A close-up of a slice of cinnamon roll cheesecake on a white plate, featuring a crumbly crust, creamy filling with cinnamon swirls, and a dollop of whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love Making This Recipe

Making a cinnamon roll cheesecake is not only satisfying but also a fun project for anyone who loves baking. From creating the swirls of cinnamon to whipping up the creamy cheesecake filling, every step is an opportunity to indulge your creative side. Plus, the finished product is so impressive, it’s bound to become your signature dessert.

Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned baker—this recipe is beginner-friendly. The steps are straightforward, and the results are so worth it. Plus, it’s one of those desserts that looks like it took way more effort than it actually did. You’ll feel like a pro when you serve it up and see everyone’s faces light up.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

There are quite a few ingredients and steps needed to make this cinnamon roll cheesecake recipe; however, it’s absolutely worth the effort. After all, there’s nothing quite like homemade cheesecake—especially one that captures the warm, sweet flavor of a cinnamon roll so perfectly!

Crust

Cinnamon Graham Crackers: This recipe uses cinnamon graham crackers to infuse the crust with that warm, cinnamon flavor. If you only have regular graham crackers, just mix in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to get a similar result.

Granulated Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust and enhances the cinnamon flavor.

Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together and provides a rich, buttery taste.

Cinnamon Filling

Brown Sugar: Using brown sugar adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness to the cinnamon filling, making it extra indulgent.

All-Purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the filling and ensures a smooth, slightly sticky texture.

Ground Cinnamon: This is the star ingredient of the cinnamon filling, providing that signature warm and spicy flavor.

Unsalted Butter: Melted butter blends everything together and gives the filling a luscious consistency.

Cheesecake Filling

Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling. The cream cheese is the base of the cheesecake, giving it that classic, rich flavor.

Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and ensures the cheesecake filling is extra creamy.

Sugars: A combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar creates a well-rounded sweetness with depth.

Large Eggs: The eggs add structure and help the cheesecake set perfectly during baking.

Vanilla Extract: Brings a subtle, sweet flavor that enhances all the other ingredients.

Cream Cheese Whipped Cream

Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for a silky, lump-free whipped topping.

Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream while keeping it light and smooth.

Heavy Cream: Chilled heavy cream whips up quickly and creates stiff, stable peaks for a beautiful topping.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

This recipe may look fancy, but trust me—you’ve got this! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your cinnamon roll cheesecake from scratch.

Step 1: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (because good things happen when your oven’s hot). Mix the cinnamon graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until it looks like damp sand. Press it into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prep the fillings.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until smooth. Set aside—you’ll be swirling this into your cheesecake filling later. (And yes, it’s okay to sneak a little taste.)

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy (no lumps allowed!). Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, and mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Your filling should be creamy and silky at this point—basically perfection.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust. Drizzle half of the cinnamon filling over the top, then swirl it gently with a knife or skewer. Repeat with the remaining cheesecake and cinnamon fillings. (The swirls are where the magic happens!)

Step 5: Bake

Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks on top.

Step 6: Chill

Transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. Patience, my friend—it’s worth it.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Whipped Cream

Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the chilled heavy cream and whip until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over your cheesecake. Boom, you’re done!

A close-up of a cinnamon roll cheesecake slice on a black plate, topped with whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

  • Room Temp Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air, which might cause cracks. Mix until just combined.
  • Use a Water Bath: If you’re nervous about cracks, place your springform pan in a larger pan filled with a bit of water. The steam keeps everything moist.
  • Chill It Well: Cheesecake gets better with time, so let it sit in the fridge as long as you can resist.
  • Decorate with Style: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel over the whipped cream for an extra touch of flair.
Print
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A slice of cinnamon roll cheesecake topped with whipped cream and cinnamon sticks, served on a dark plate with a creamy filling and a golden-brown crust.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake


  • Author: Juno
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices 1x

Description

Creamy, rich, and swirled with warm cinnamon flavor, this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake combines two classic desserts into one unforgettable treat!

 
 

 

 


Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (about 12 whole crackers)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cinnamon Filling

  • 1 1/3 cups brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 2 pounds cream cheese, room temperature (4 8-ounce packages)
  • 8 ounces sour cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 5 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Whipped Cream

  • 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. Make the crust: Combine cinnamon graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
  3. Prepare the cinnamon filling: Mix brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Make the cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese, sour cream, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
  5. Layer and swirl: Pour half the cheesecake batter over the crust, add cinnamon filling, swirl, and repeat.
  6. Bake for 60-70 minutes. Cool in the oven for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
  7. Make the whipped cream: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until peaks form. Spread or pipe onto the cheesecake.

Notes

  • For a perfect swirl, use a skewer or knife to gently mix the layers without overdoing it.
  • Cheesecake is best chilled overnight for the flavors to develop.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 70 minutes
  • Category: Cake
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 35
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, Cinnamon Cheesecake Recipe, Homemade Cheesecake, Cream Cheese Dessert

FAQs About Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

1. Can I use regular graham crackers instead of cinnamon ones?

Absolutely! Just add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the crust mixture for that signature flavor.

2. What if I don’t have a springform pan?

A deep-dish pie pan can work in a pinch, but you’ll have to serve it straight from the dish since it won’t release like a springform pan.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day. Just whip up the cream cheese whipped cream fresh when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I add toppings?

Definitely! Try chopped nuts, extra cinnamon sugar, or even some fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

6. Can I use a premade crust?

Yes, you can! A store-bought graham cracker crust will save time. Just ensure it’s large enough to hold the filling.

7. How can I tell when the cheesecake is done?

The center should still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon roll cheesecake is the dessert you didn’t know you needed. It’s rich, indulgent, and packed with the cozy flavors of cinnamon and cream cheese. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because (hey, you don’t need a reason), it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t be surprised if your friends and family start requesting it at every gathering.

So, grab your apron and get ready to make some magic happen. And remember, the best part about baking is sharing—but with this one, I won’t blame you if you keep an extra slice just for yourself. Happy baking!

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