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Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: The Ultimate Dessert Fusion Recipe

4.6 from 53 reviews

This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake combines the best of two beloved desserts—rich and creamy cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. Featuring a graham cracker crust and a luscious cinnamon swirl throughout, it’s topped with a smooth powdered sugar glaze, making it the ultimate dessert fusion perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 2 tbsp sugar

Cinnamon Swirl

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp melted butter

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs

Glaze

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.
  2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes to set it. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until you achieve a thick, smooth paste. This mixture will create the iconic cinnamon swirl inside the cheesecake.
  4. Make Cheesecake Filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well. Then beat in the eggs one at a time, incorporating them gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  5. Layer Cheesecake Batter and Cinnamon Swirl: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the baked and cooled crust. Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, then gently swirl it in using a knife or skewer. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top and swirl in the remaining cinnamon mixture for a beautiful marbled effect.
  6. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 50 to 60 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the center still jiggles slightly but is mostly set. To prevent cracking and help it cool gently, leave the oven door slightly ajar and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
  7. Make the Glaze and Chill: While the cheesecake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to prepare the glaze. Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set fully. Drizzle the glaze over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Notes

  • Be sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
  • Swirling the cinnamon mixture gently helps to create beautiful marbling without mixing the batter too much.
  • Using a water bath can help prevent cracks if you prefer, though this recipe does not specifically call for it.
  • Allowing the cheesecake to cool with the oven door ajar helps avoid sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking.
  • Refrigerate overnight for best flavor and texture results.

Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, Cinnamon Swirl Cheesecake, Cream Cheese Dessert, Easy Cheesecake Recipe, Holiday Dessert