Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake With Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Heavenly Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing

Sweet, creamy, and utterly irresistible, this cinnamon roll cheesecake with cream cheese icing blends two beloved desserts into one decadent treat.

Layers of rich, velvety cheesecake swirl together with warm cinnamon notes, creating a mouthwatering masterpiece.

The buttery graham cracker crust provides a perfect foundation for the smooth, tangy filling.

Each slice promises a delightful combination of classic cheesecake and the comforting flavors of a freshly baked cinnamon roll.

The cream cheese icing drizzled on top adds a luxurious finish that will make your taste buds dance.

This dessert is sure to become a showstopper at any gathering, leaving everyone craving another slice.

Prepare to indulge in pure dessert bliss that celebrates the best of both worlds.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of crust instead of graham crackers?

Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a similar texture and flavor profile.

  • How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Baking the cheesecake in a water bath, avoiding overmixing, and cooling it slowly in the oven with the door cracked helps prevent cracks from forming.

  • Is it possible to make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve as it sits.

  • Can I freeze this cinnamon roll cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Why Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Is a Dream Dessert

  • Indulge in Decadence: A luxurious dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake.
  • Master Baker's Delight: Perfect for home bakers looking to impress with a show-stopping dessert that looks professionally crafted but is surprisingly achievable.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Centerpiece: An ideal dessert for special gatherings, holiday parties, or when you want to create a memorable sweet experience that everyone will love.
  • Customizable Comfort: Easily adaptable with potential variations like adding nuts, drizzling extra caramel, or experimenting with different spice combinations to suit personal tastes.

Ingredients for Cheesecake With Cinnamon Swirl

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base with a sweet, crumbly texture.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melted gold that binds the crust together.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth and rich base for the creamy cheesecake.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly.
  • Large Eggs: Provides structure and richness to the cheesecake.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and silky texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings warm, comforting flavor.
Cinnamon Swirl and Topping Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: A warm, spicy duo that creates delicious swirls.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the cinnamon mixture.
  • Powdered Sugar, Cream Cheese, Butter: Creamy components for the dreamy icing.
  • Milk: Adjusts the icing's smooth consistency.

How to Make This Cinnamon Cheesecake With Icing

Step 1: Craft the Crumbly Base

Grab your graham crackers and crush them into fine crumbs.

Mix the crumbs with melted butter and a touch of sugar until it feels like damp beach sand.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a solid foundation for your dreamy dessert.

Pop it in the oven at 325°F for a quick 10-minute toast to set the base.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until it’s silky smooth.

Gradually add sugar, creating a cloud-like mixture.

Crack in the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Stir in:
  • Sour cream
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until the filling is completely velvety and free of any lumps.

Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Magic

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Melted butter

Stir until you’ve got a rich, aromatic paste that screams comfort and warmth.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl with Artistry

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.

Drizzle half of the cinnamon mixture across the surface.

Take a knife and create gentle, mesmerizing swirls.

Repeat the process with the remaining filling and cinnamon mixture, creating a beautiful marbled masterpiece.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan onto a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes.

You’re looking for set edges with a slight jiggle in the center.

Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool slowly for an hour to prevent ugly cracks.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, letting the flavors meld and the texture become gloriously firm.

Step 7: Whip Up the Luscious Icing

Beat cream cheese and butter until they’re light and fluffy.

Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla.

Thin with milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you’ve got a smooth, pourable icing that’ll make mouths water.

Step 8: Finish and Feast

Drizzle or spread the cream cheese icing over the chilled cheesecake.

Slice into generous pieces and indulge in a dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and cinnamon rolls!

Tips to Keep the Cheesecake Creamy and Sweet

  • Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open, which helps reduce sudden temperature changes that cause surface cracks.
  • Beat cream cheese and sugar thoroughly until completely smooth, ensuring no lumps remain for a silky cheesecake texture.
  • Use a knife or toothpick to create gentle, random swirls when adding cinnamon mixture, avoiding overmixing to maintain distinct marbled patterns.
  • Take cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream out of the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before mixing to achieve better incorporation and smoother consistency.
  • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.

Best Ways to Store and Serve This Cheesecake

  • Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap to prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Slice the cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake can last up to 2 months.
  • Remove frozen cheesecake from the freezer and let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For best texture, enjoy cheesecake chilled or at room temperature, as reheating can change its creamy consistency.

Pairing Tips for Cinnamon Cheesecake

  • Pair with Cozy Beverages: Complement the rich, sweet cinnamon roll cheesecake with warm chai tea or smooth vanilla latte, creating a comforting dessert experience that enhances the creamy texture and warm spices.
  • Enhance with Complementary Wines: Select a late-harvest Riesling or moscato, which offer sweet undertones that beautifully match the dessert's sugary profile and cinnamon notes without overpowering the delicate cheesecake flavor.
  • Elevate with Contrasting Drink Options: Serve alongside cold milk or creamy cappuccino to balance the dessert's richness, providing a refreshing counterpoint that cleanses the palate between decadent bites.
  • Add Unexpected Flavor Accents: Garnish with toasted pecans or sprinkle cinnamon stick powder alongside the beverage to create an elevated sensory experience that connects the drink and dessert harmoniously.

Ways to Dress Up This Cinnamon Cheesecake Recipe

  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of sour cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs for a plant-based alternative.
  • Low-Carb Cinnamon Cheesecake: Use almond flour or crushed pecans for the crust, swap sugar with erythritol or stevia, and reduce overall carbohydrate content while maintaining rich flavor.
  • Keto-Friendly Cheesecake Option: Create a nut-based crust using ground almonds or macadamia nuts, use sugar substitutes like monk fruit sweetener, and ensure all ingredients align with ketogenic dietary guidelines.
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Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake With Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake With Cream Cheese Icing Recipe


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4.5 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy cinnamon roll cheesecake blends classic dessert magic with irresistible bakery charm. Rich layers of sweet cinnamon swirl and silky cheesecake promise indulgent comfort that melts deliciously on your palate.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (200 g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Wet/Fat Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted

Topping/Binding Ingredients:

(none from the provided list)


Instructions

  1. Create a graham cracker foundation by blending crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing firmly into a springform pan. Bake briefly to set the base and allow cooling.
  2. Whip cream cheese and sugar until silky, gradually incorporating eggs to maintain a smooth texture. Introduce sour cream and vanilla, mixing until the filling achieves a luxurious consistency.
  3. Craft a decadent cinnamon mixture by whisking brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter into a rich, aromatic paste.
  4. Layer the cheesecake by pouring half the filling over the cooled crust, then artfully drizzle and swirl half the cinnamon mixture using a knife. Repeat the process with remaining filling and cinnamon for a marbled effect.
  5. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake at a moderate temperature. The cheesecake should develop set edges while maintaining a slight jiggle in the center.
  6. Execute a strategic cooling technique by turning off the oven, leaving the door slightly ajar, allowing the cheesecake to gradually reduce temperature and prevent unsightly cracks.
  7. Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator, allowing it to chill and solidify for several hours or overnight, which enhances its texture and flavor profile.
  8. Prepare a luxurious cream cheese icing by blending cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla, adjusting consistency with milk to achieve a pourable consistency.
  9. Finalize the dessert by generously draping the cream cheese icing over the chilled cheesecake, creating an elegant presentation ready for serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter that blends perfectly.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking during baking.
  • Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger pan with hot water to ensure even, gentle baking and prevent surface cracks.
  • Swap graham cracker crust with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version of this decadent dessert.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 257
  • Sugar: 2.5 g
  • Sodium: 158 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 31 mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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