There is something truly magical about the combination of two beloved desserts, and that is exactly what you get with this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe. Imagine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake intertwined with the warm, comforting swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar that make cinnamon rolls so irresistible. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds in a dessert that’s perfect for celebrations, cozy afternoons, or any time you want to impress friends and family with a show-stopping sweet treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Though this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe sounds fancy, the ingredient list is refreshingly simple, featuring pantry staples that each add their unique magic to the dish. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the smooth cream cheese filling and the iconic cinnamon sugar swirl, every component is essential to achieving that perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: This forms the crunchy, buttery base that holds everything together.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the crust firmly.
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened: The heart of cheesecake, providing smoothness and tang.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the creamy filling without overpowering it.
- 3 large eggs: These give structure to the cheesecake while keeping it luscious.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and slight tang, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Combined with cinnamon, this creates the signature swirl for that cinnamon roll flair.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice, providing warm depth and aroma.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Mixed with cornstarch, it adds a silky finish to the cheesecake top.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps stabilize the cream topping for a smooth, glossy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
How to Make Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Crust
Start by heating your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s just right when your cheesecake is ready to go in. Then, mix the crumbly graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until it’s all evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating that dreamy base everyone looks forward to biting into.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Using a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until absolutely smooth and creamy — no lumps here! This is the luscious foundation that makes cheesecake so irresistible. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition to keep the texture velvety.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Moisture
Once the eggs are fully incorporated, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. The vanilla adds a sweet aromatic touch, while the sour cream ensures the cheesecake remains moist and light after baking. It’s this combo that sets this recipe apart from your average cheesecake.
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon — these two are the magic duo that brings the cinnamon roll spirit to life in your cheesecake. Pour half of the cream cheese batter over the crust, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar evenly across the top. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon sugar for that irresistible multi-layer effect.
Step 5: Swirl and Drizzle
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter, creating beautiful marbled patterns reminiscent of cinnamon roll swirls. In another small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt, and drizzle this mixture over the top to give your cheesecake a silky, glossy finish.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake your masterpiece for 50 to 60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when nudged. This ensures the cheesecake is creamy without being overdone. After baking, turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door slightly open for about an hour to gently settle the texture.
Step 7: Chill Until Ready
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial to let all the flavors meld and the texture firm up to that silky perfection you crave in a cheesecake.
How to Serve Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence. Fresh berries or chopped nuts can add a delightful contrast in texture and color, making each slice look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
If you want to balance the richness, serve it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit salad or a light citrus compote can complement the sweet and creamy flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this cheesecake as mini parfaits layered with whipped cream and cinnamon sugar crumbles in glass jars for a fun twist. Or create bite-sized cheesecake bars topped with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar for casual gatherings and easy sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cut, keep your leftover Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe tightly covered in the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to savor every last bite.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes really well! Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture.
Reheating
While cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer a slightly warmed slice, let it come to room temperature first or gently warm in a low oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat or it may lose that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar for the cinnamon swirl?
Brown sugar is key in this recipe because it adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor that regular granulated sugar lacks. For the best cinnamon roll taste, stick to brown sugar in the swirl.
What’s the best way to prevent cracks in cheesecake?
Make sure your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid overbaking and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or finely crushed gluten-free cookies to keep the crust just as delicious without the gluten.
Is it possible to make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
A springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake without damaging it, but if you don’t have one, wrap a standard cake pan well with foil and you’ll need to carefully invert it after chilling.
How long does it take to chill and set properly?
While 4 hours is the minimum chilling time, overnight refrigeration is ideal to allow all flavors to deepen and the texture to become perfectly firm yet creamy.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a showstopper dessert that combines the nostalgic spice of cinnamon rolls with the lush creaminess of cheesecake, this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s straightforward to make, delightfully indulgent, and guaranteed to wow anyone lucky enough to take a bite. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of cozy, sweet heaven.
Print
Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake combines the rich creaminess of a classic cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. Featuring a graham cracker crust, marbled cinnamon-sugar swirls, and a luscious topping, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Topping
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare the crust. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until fully mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Set aside.
- Make the cheesecake batter. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs and flavorings. Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Layer the batter and cinnamon sugar. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon sugar.
- Create the cinnamon swirl. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect throughout.
- Make the topping and drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
- Bake the cheesecake. Place the springform pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Cool in the oven. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar. Let it cool gently for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill before serving. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Allow cream cheese to soften to room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Use a water bath if desired to further prevent cracking during baking.
- Refrigerate overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices after chilling.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
