If you love the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then you are absolutely going to adore this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe. This rich dessert blends the soft, swirled cinnamon goodness of your favorite breakfast pastry with a luscious cheesecake base that melts in your mouth. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet cinnamon, smooth cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s truly a showstopper for any occasion and a delightful treat that feels lovingly homemade yet impressively gourmet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is, coming together to create an extraordinary texture and flavor. From the crispness of the graham cracker crust to the silky cream cheese filling and aromatic cinnamon swirls, every component plays a vital role in perfecting this dessert.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy, buttery base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients and adds rich flavor without overshadowing cinnamon notes.
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that forms the velvety, dense cheesecake filling.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake batter while helping to create a smooth texture.
- 3 large eggs: Add structure and help the cheesecake set just right without being too firm.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavors, enhancing the cinnamon’s aroma.
- 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the cheesecake moist and tender with a subtle tanginess.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a caramel-like richness and combines perfectly with cinnamon for the swirl.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The signature spice that defines the cinnamon roll flavor in this recipe.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky drizzle topping that balances richness and smoothness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the drizzle hold its shape and adds a gentle thickness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A subtle enhancer that brings out all the sweet and creamy notes.
How to Make Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C), which is the perfect temperature to bake a cheesecake that’s creamy and set without drying out. In the meantime, mix your graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the texture feels like damp sand. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a 9-inch springform pan to create a sturdy and buttery crust that will hold your cheesecake masterpiece together beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the blend is silky smooth and free of lumps. Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next—this keeps the batter silky and light. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream for creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the sugars.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This simple mixture is what gives the cheesecake its signature cinnamon roll flavor, creating pockets of sweetness and spice that burst in each bite.
Step 4: Layer and Swirl
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over your crust, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. Repeat the process with the remaining batter and cinnamon-sugar. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter, creating a stunning marbled pattern that mimics the look of a classic cinnamon roll.
Step 5: Add the Drizzle Topping and Bake
Whisk together the heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt in a small bowl to make a luxurious drizzle. Pour this evenly over the top of the cheesecake before placing it in the oven. Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—this ensures creamy perfection when chilled.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for one hour—this gradual cooling prevents cracks. After that, refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of four hours, preferably overnight, allowing it to fully set and the flavors to deepen beautifully.
How to Serve Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a light and airy contrast to the dense, creamy filling. For extra indulgence, drizzle a bit more cinnamon-spiced glaze or caramel sauce to highlight the cinnamon roll inspiration.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears, which bring a refreshing bite and complement the warm cinnamon flavors. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also elevate this dessert into an unforgettable ending to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Served in individual mini jars or on decorative plates adorned with edible flowers, this cheesecake becomes a centerpiece worthy of celebration. You can also layer it in parfait glasses with cinnamon granola for a visually striking and texturally delightful twist on the classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to 4-5 days—a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks.
Freezing
You can freeze this cheesecake for longer storage by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When thawed overnight in the fridge, it retains its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a great option for holidays or special occasions.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled cheesecake, it’s best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer a slightly softer texture, let slices sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture and cause separation.
FAQs
Can I use another type of crust instead of graham cracker crumbs?
Absolutely! You can experiment with crushed digestive biscuits, gingersnaps, or even a buttery shortbread crust. Just be sure to adjust the butter quantity accordingly to get the right texture.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
The key is gentle mixing and gradual cooling. Be sure not to overbeat the batter, bake at the right temperature, and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly with the oven door open slightly, as outlined in the recipe.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the batter?
While sour cream adds creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a similar texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or an alternative gluten-free cookie crumb for the crust, and double-check other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
How long does this cheesecake take to set properly?
For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a special family gathering or craving a sweet ending to your day, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds every time.
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 classic cheesecake with the warm, spicy flavors of cinnamon rolls. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, swirls of cinnamon sugar throughout the cream cheese batter, and a luscious cinnamon cream drizzle on top, this dessert is perfect for indulgent gatherings or special occasions.
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
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the cake.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter thoroughly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Base: Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until completely blended.
- Mix the Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly.
- Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crust. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture across the batter’s surface. Repeat this layering with the remaining batter and cinnamon sugar.
- Create the Swirls: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled cinnamon roll effect throughout.
- Prepare the Topping: Whisk together the heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake batter.
- Bake: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly, indicating perfect doneness.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar, allowing it to cool gradually for 1 hour. This prevents cracking and maintains a creamy texture.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it fully set and develop maximum flavor before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Swirling gently helps achieve the perfect marbled cinnamon effect without overmixing.
- Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven prevents cracking and maintains creaminess.
- Refrigeration time is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly; plan ahead.
- Use a springform pan for easier removal of the cheesecake without damage.
