If you have a sweet tooth and love the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls, you are going to absolutely adore this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe. It’s the perfect fusion of a fluffy, gooey cinnamon roll base with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, all baked into one irresistible dessert. Every bite delivers that warm cinnamon-spiced goodness paired with the silky smooth texture of cheesecake, making it a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re making it for a weekend treat or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first exciting step toward making your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe truly shine. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating the flavorful foundation or achieving that velvety texture cheesecake lovers crave.
- 2 cans of cinnamon rolls: These provide the delicious cinnamon-spiced dough that forms both the crust and the topping, adding ooey-gooey layers.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of your cheesecake, ensuring smooth texture and rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 eggs: Bind the filling together and give it that luscious, firm yet creamy consistency once baked.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the perfect baking environment as soon as your dessert is ready to go in, helping the cheesecake cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Open one can of your cinnamon rolls and press them firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. This will create a soft, cinnamon-flavored crust that serves as the delicious base for your cheesecake. Make sure to press the rolls down well to create an even layer.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs. Beat the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps. This mixture is what gives the cheesecake filling its signature rich and silky texture.
Step 4: Pour Filling Over Crust
Gently pour the cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon roll crust you just prepared. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so each slice of cheesecake gets a perfect balance of crust and filling.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Take the remaining can of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into smaller pieces. Arrange these pieces evenly on top of the cream cheese filling. This top layer will bake into warm, pillowy bites that contrast beautifully with the smooth cheesecake underneath.
Step 6: Bake Your Cheesecake
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. This baking time helps the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping your cheesecake perfectly moist.
Step 7: Cool and Refrigerate
Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 3 hours to let it firm up and the flavors intensify. This step is crucial to achieve that classic cheesecake texture.
Step 8: Finish with Icing
Before serving, drizzle the icing that came with the cinnamon roll cans over the top of the cheesecake. This sweet glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making every slice look irresistible and taste even better.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, you can keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, also complement the warm cinnamon and cream cheese flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe stands well on its own, but if you want to elevate your dessert spread, serve it with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A cup of hot coffee or chai tea also pairs wonderfully, balancing the sweetness with a warm, comforting beverage.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this cheesecake in individual mini springform pans or even in clear glasses for a layered trifle effect. You can also drizzle caramel or maple syrup over the slices for an extra indulgent touch. Presentation is key to really wow your guests with this delightful treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days while maintaining its creamy texture and flavor. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delicious taste or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cheesecake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can serve it chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before eating. Since it’s a cheesecake, reheating in the microwave is generally not recommended as it may affect the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will work wonderfully in this recipe and can add a personal touch with your preferred dough and filling recipe. Just make sure they are fully prepared before assembling the cheesecake.
What size pan works best for this recipe?
A 9-inch springform pan is ideal as it allows the cheesecake to bake evenly while making it easy to remove for serving. If you don’t have a springform pan, a regular cake pan will also work but may require extra care when slicing.
Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free or vegan?
You can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and egg replacers, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly. Using plant-based cinnamon rolls or homemade versions can also help make the recipe vegan-friendly.
How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when you gently shake the pan. It will continue to firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep it creamy and soft.
Can I add nuts or extra cinnamon to the recipe?
Yes! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts either in the crust or sprinkled on top can add a delightful crunch. You can also stir a little extra cinnamon into the cream cheese filling for an even more pronounced cinnamon flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe is truly a celebration of comforting flavors and creamy textures all rolled into one dessert. It’s a fantastic way to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!
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Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake combines the best of two beloved desserts—fluffy cinnamon rolls and creamy cheesecake. Featuring a cinnamon roll crust, a smooth and rich cream cheese filling, and topped with cinnamon roll pieces and icing drizzle, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or indulgent weekend treats.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 can (8 count) cinnamon rolls, with icing reserved
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Topping
- 1 can (8 count) cinnamon rolls, cut into pieces
- Reserved icing from cinnamon roll cans, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.
- Create the crust: Open one can of cinnamon rolls and press the rolls evenly into the bottom of the greased springform pan, forming a thick crust layer.
- Make the filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully and avoid lumps.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the cinnamon roll crust in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer.
- Add topping pieces: Cut the remaining can of cinnamon rolls into smaller pieces and evenly distribute them on top of the cream cheese filling for added texture and cinnamon flavor.
- Bake: Place the springform pan on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 3 hours to allow it to firm up and develop flavor.
- Serve with icing: Before serving, drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top of the cheesecake pieces for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Chilling time is important for the cheesecake to set properly.
- The cinnamon roll pieces on top add texture but can be omitted if preferred.
- The icing can be warmed slightly for easier drizzling if it has thickened.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to slice the cheesecake cleanly.
