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.