Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

The Dreamiest Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Ever Bake

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when a cinnamon roll cheesecake enters the scene.

Sweet aromas drift through the house, promising something extraordinary.

Delicate swirls of creamy filling blend perfectly with warm, gooey cinnamon notes.

Comfort meets creativity in this decadent dessert that feels like a warm hug.

Bakers seeking a showstopping treat will adore this mash-up of two beloved classics.

Each bite delivers layers of rich, velvety goodness that melt on your tongue.

Who could resist such a magnificent dessert that brings pure joy to the table?

Tasty Twists For Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake You’ll Love

  • Gluten-Free Crust Option: Replace graham crackers with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs, maintaining the same buttery texture and binding properties for celiac-friendly preparation.
  • Dairy-Free Transformation: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and use coconut cream instead of sour cream, creating a plant-based cheesecake alternative that preserves rich, creamy consistency.
  • Chocolate Lover's Version: Incorporate melted dark chocolate into the cheesecake batter and replace cinnamon swirl with chocolate ganache, delivering an intense cocoa experience with deep, decadent flavor profiles.
  • Seasonal Berry Remix: Fold fresh raspberries or blueberries into the cheesecake batter and create a berry compote swirl instead of cinnamon mixture, introducing bright, tangy notes to the classic dessert.

Great Sides And Sips For Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

  • Elevate Cinnamon Swirl Cheesecake Experience
  • Pair with Smooth Caramel Macchiato: Rich espresso balances the sweet cheesecake, while caramel notes complement the cinnamon swirl's warmth.
  • Match with Spiced Moscato Wine: Delicate white wine's subtle sweetness and light spice profile beautifully enhance the dessert's cinnamon undertones.
  • Serve alongside Toasted Pecan Pralines: Nutty, caramelized pecans provide delightful textural contrast and amplify the cheesecake's rich, creamy essence.
  • Complement with Chai Tea Latte: Aromatic spices in chai mirror the cinnamon's complexity, creating a harmonious flavor connection with each decadent bite.

How To Keep Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Fresh For Days

  • Wrap cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, keeping it fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator's coolest section.
  • Slice cheesecake, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container for maximum 2 months; thaw overnight in refrigerator before enjoying.
  • Never leave cheesecake out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth and potential foodborne illness.
  • Gently warm individual slices in microwave at 50% power for 15-20 seconds, or let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to soften texture and restore creamy consistency.

FAQs For Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Fans

  • What ingredients make the cinnamon swirl special?

The cinnamon swirl combines melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon, creating a rich, aromatic mixture that adds warmth and depth to the classic cheesecake flavor.

  • How do I achieve the perfect swirl pattern?

Pour the cheesecake batter in layers, drizzle cinnamon mixture across the surface, and use a knife to create gentle, interconnected swirling patterns that distribute the cinnamon throughout the cake.

  • Why is using a springform pan important for this recipe?

A springform pan allows for easy removal of the delicate cheesecake without damaging its structure, ensuring clean slices and maintaining the cake’s beautiful presentation.

Why Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Is A Cozy Treat Combo

  • Create Without Complexity: This recipe breaks down intimidating baking steps into simple, manageable actions that even novice bakers can confidently execute.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Designed to impress family and friends, the cinnamon swirl adds a warm, inviting touch that transforms an ordinary dessert into a memorable culinary experience.
  • Prep-Ahead Party Perfection: Perfect for gatherings and special occasions, this cheesecake can be prepared in advance, allowing hosts to relax and enjoy time with guests instead of last-minute kitchen stress.
  • Customize with Creativity: Flexible recipe elements like the optional glaze and cinnamon swirl invite personal touches, making it a versatile dessert that adapts to individual preferences and skill levels.

What You’ll Need For Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

For the Crust:
  • Graham Crackers: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs and creates a rich, solid crust.
For the Cheesecake Base:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its signature creamy and tangy flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, balanced texture.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake ingredients together.
  • Sour Cream: Enhances the richness and contributes to a silky, creamy consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
For the Cinnamon Swirl and Glaze:
  • Brown Sugar, Butter, Ground Cinnamon: Create a rich, aromatic swirl that adds depth and warmth to the cheesecake.
  • Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract: Combine to make a smooth, sweet glaze for drizzling on top of the cheesecake.

How To Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Smooth And Sweet

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

Warm up the oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, making sure the edges are smooth for easy cake removal.

Step 2: Create Graham Cracker Crust

Crush graham crackers in a food processor until they become fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter to form a consistent mixture that looks like damp sand.

Step 3: Press Crust into Pan

Pack the crust mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to compress the crumbs and create a solid base.

Step 4: Whip Cream Cheese Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until it becomes silky smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, mixing until the mixture is completely combined and creamy.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This helps maintain a smooth and luxurious texture for the cheesecake.

Step 6: Blend Sour Cream and Vanilla

Gently fold in sour cream and vanilla extract. Ensure the mixture is completely smooth with no lumps.

Step 7: Craft Cinnamon Swirl

Melt butter and combine with brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Create a rich, fragrant mixture that will add depth to the cheesecake.

Step 8: First Layer of Batter

Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture across the surface.

Step 9: Create Marbled Effect

Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the cheesecake batter, creating beautiful marble-like patterns.

Step 10: Add Remaining Layers

Pour the rest of the cheesecake batter into the pan. Top with the remaining cinnamon swirl, creating additional intricate patterns.

Step 11: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes. The center should be slightly wobbly but set, with golden edges indicating it’s done.

Step 12: Cool at Room Temperature

Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours.

Step 13: Chill in Refrigerator

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.

Step 14: Prepare Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth, pourable glaze.

Step 15: Serve and Decorate

Release the springform pan and generously drizzle the glaze over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Tips That Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Extra Dreamy

  • Prevent Cracks: Avoid overmixing ingredients and overbaking to maintain a smooth, crack-free cheesecake surface.
  • Control Moisture: Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and a creamy, consistent texture.
  • Master Swirling Technique: Create delicate cinnamon patterns by using a knife with light, gentle strokes across the batter.
  • Chill for Perfection: Allow complete cooling and extended refrigeration to help cheesecake set properly and develop rich flavors.
  • Glaze with Care: Drizzle vanilla glaze just before serving to ensure a fresh, appetizing presentation that doesn't become soggy.
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Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe


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4.8 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Cinnamon roll cheesecake delivers a delightful fusion of classic dessert flavors that dance on your palate. Creamy cheesecake layers nestled with swirls of cinnamon and sweet glaze promise a luxurious experience you’ll savor to the last delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl:

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

Topping:

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring smooth edges for easy removal.
  2. Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until finely ground, then combine with melted butter to create a uniform, sandy crust mixture.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the back of a measuring cup to compact the crumbs.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating granulated sugar until fully integrated.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a silky texture.
  6. Gently fold in sour cream and vanilla extract, ensuring a consistent, lump-free cheesecake base.
  7. For the cinnamon swirl, melt butter and mix with brown sugar and ground cinnamon to create a rich, aromatic mixture.
  8. Pour half the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust, then drizzle half the cinnamon swirl mixture across the surface.
  9. Use a knife to create gentle swirling patterns, connecting the cinnamon mixture through the cheesecake batter.
  10. Add remaining cheesecake batter and top with remaining cinnamon swirl, creating additional marbled patterns.
  11. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set, with golden edges.
  12. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for approximately 2 hours.
  13. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to allow proper setting.
  14. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth, drizzling glaze.
  15. Before serving, release springform pan and generously drizzle glaze over the chilled cheesecake.

Notes

  • Achieve a perfectly smooth crust by using the back of a measuring cup to firmly pack graham cracker mixture, preventing crumbly edges.
  • Prevent cheesecake cracks by allowing cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing and avoiding overmixing eggs.
  • Create clean, beautiful swirls by using a thin knife and making gentle figure-eight motions when incorporating the cinnamon mixture.
  • Transform this dessert into a gluten-free option by substituting graham crackers with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 70 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 490
  • Sugar: 38 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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