If you love the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls and the creamy richness of cheesecake, this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is your dream dessert. Combining a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust with a creamy cheesecake filling and swirls of cinnamon roll flavor, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you crave something sweet and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: Classic cheesecake texture with the warmth of cinnamon.
- Visually Stunning: Gorgeous cinnamon swirls make it a show-stopper.
- Unique Twist: Combines two favorite desserts into one irresistible treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prepare for a water bath.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until smooth. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan.
- Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the filling and use a toothpick or knife to create swirls.
- Add the remaining cheesecake filling, then drizzle the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top, creating more swirls.
Step 6: Bake in a Water Bath
- Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle over the chilled cheesecake just before serving.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened cream cheese and eggs for a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overbeating can incorporate too much air, causing cracks in the cheesecake.
- Water Bath: This prevents cracks and ensures even baking.
Variations
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for added crunch.
- Caramel Drizzle: Replace the glaze with caramel sauce for extra decadence.
- Cinnamon Roll Crust: Use pre-made cinnamon roll dough as the crust for a unique twist.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
The buttery graham cracker crust provides a solid foundation for the creamy cheesecake filling, while the cinnamon swirl adds warmth and sweetness that mimics a classic cinnamon roll. The water bath ensures a smooth, crack-free finish, making this dessert as beautiful as it is delicious.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mashup that will wow your family and friends. Its creamy texture, warm cinnamon swirls, and sweet glaze make it an unforgettable treat. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want to indulge in something truly special. Bake it today and savor every decadent bite!
