What if you could have the best of both worlds—cinnamon rolls and cheesecake—wrapped into one irresistible dessert? This cinnamon roll cheesecake delivers exactly that! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and swirls of cinnamon-sugar goodness, every bite tastes like a decadent cinnamon roll.
And the best part? No water bath required! This easy cheesecake recipe is beginner-friendly, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.
Get ready to bake a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress!
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients (No Measurements, Just Purpose & Substitutions)
Before we dive into baking, let’s go over the key ingredients that make this cinnamon roll cheesecake extra special.
For the Crust
- Graham crackers or cinnamon graham crackers – A buttery, slightly sweet base that complements the cinnamon flavors.
- Butter – Helps hold the crust together and adds richness.
- Brown sugar – Enhances the deep, caramel-like sweetness.
➜ Shortcut: Want a true cinnamon roll experience? Use refrigerated cinnamon roll dough instead!
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- Brown sugar & cinnamon – The heart of the cinnamon roll flavor.
- Melted butter – Creates a gooey, swirlable mixture.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream cheese – Full-fat works best for a rich and creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar – Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
- Sour cream – Adds smoothness and a slight tang.
- Eggs – Helps the cheesecake set while keeping it silky.
- Vanilla extract – Brings warmth and depth to the filling.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- Cream cheese, powdered sugar & vanilla – A sweet, creamy topping that mimics the classic cinnamon roll icing.
- Milk – Helps adjust the consistency for a perfect drizzle.
Now that we’ve got our ingredients, let’s start baking!
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Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes (includes cooling time)
- Yield: 12 slices
Description
This cinnamon roll cheesecake is a creamy, indulgent dessert swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. It’s the perfect combination of classic cinnamon rolls and rich cheesecake, making it ideal for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions. No water bath required!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or cinnamon graham crackers)
¼ cup brown sugar
5 tbsp melted butter
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
½ cup brown sugar
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup sour cream
2 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
2–3 tbsp milk (for desired consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.
➜ If using cinnamon roll dough, press it into the pan and prebake for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
Set aside—this will be swirled into the cheesecake for that signature cinnamon roll flavor!
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth.
Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. (Overmixing can cause cracks!)
Step 4: Layer and Swirl
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it in.
Repeat with the remaining cheesecake batter and cinnamon swirl.
Step 5: Bake & Cool
Bake at 325°F for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
Whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Drizzle over the fully chilled cheesecake before serving.
Notes
For a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon to 2 teaspoons in the swirl.
Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze slices for 3 months.
If using cinnamon roll dough as the crust, press it into the pan and bake for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Let the cheesecake chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll cheesecake, cinnamon cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe
Pro Tips for Perfection
Want a flawless cinnamon roll cheesecake every time? Keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use room-temperature ingredients – Softened cream cheese and eggs blend more smoothly, preventing lumps.
- Don’t overmix the eggs – Overbeating introduces air, which can cause cracks. Mix just until combined.
- Swirl gently – A few light swirls create beautiful layers without blending everything together.
- Let it cool gradually – Sudden temperature changes can cause cracking. Let the cheesecake rest in the oven for an hour before refrigerating.
- Chill overnight for best results – The texture and flavor improve after a full night in the fridge.
“Good things come to those who bake… and chill overnight!”
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Variations & Related Recipes
Looking to put a unique spin on this cinnamon roll cheesecake? Try these fun variations:
Christmas Tree Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake 🎄
Transform this cheesecake into a festive holiday treat! Decorate the top with red and green sprinkles or shape the cinnamon swirl into a Christmas tree design. If you love holiday desserts, check out our Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake for more inspiration!
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake with a Citrus Twist 🍊
A hint of orange adds a fresh contrast to the rich cinnamon flavors. Try mixing 1 tablespoon of orange zest into the cheesecake batter or adding a drizzle of citrus glaze. For another light and fluffy citrus dessert, don’t miss our Orange Fluff Recipe!
The Perfect Finishing Touch: Whipped Cream 🍦
A swirl of homemade whipped cream takes this cheesecake to the next level. Light, airy, and just sweet enough—it’s the perfect match for the warm cinnamon flavors. Learn how to make it from scratch with our Homemade Whipped Cream!
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake FAQs
Can I use premade cinnamon rolls for the crust?
Yes! Simply press refrigerated cinnamon roll dough into the bottom of the pan and prebake for 10 minutes before adding the cheesecake filling. This adds an extra cinnamon roll flavor!
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the eggs.
Avoid sudden temperature changes—let the cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour.
If you see small cracks, don’t worry! The glaze will cover them beautifully.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cheesecake tastes even better the next day since the flavors develop overnight. Make it a day ahead for the best texture and flavor.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake – Worth Swirling Over
This cinnamon roll cheesecake is the perfect blend of two classic desserts, offering rich, creamy cheesecake swirled with warm cinnamon sugar and topped with a dreamy cream cheese glaze. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.
Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out!
“Happiness is homemade… and covered in cinnamon sugar!”