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Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe


  • Author: Marina
  • Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, an easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cinnamon-swirled cheesecake filling, and an optional luscious cream cheese glaze, this recipe brings together the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in a rich cheesecake form. With its marbled cinnamon design and velvety texture, it’s a showstopper dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 ounces (680 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional)

Cinnamon Swirl

  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Glaze

  • 4 ounces (113 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons milk or cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy release of the cheesecake after baking.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the bottom of a glass or your hands to create an even and compact layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
  3. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Set this aside for later layering.
  4. Mix the Cheesecake Batter: Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened cream cheese for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each but being careful not to overmix to maintain a silky texture. Finally, incorporate the sour cream and heavy cream (if using) until the batter is smooth and pourable.
  5. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over this layer. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top, then dollop the remaining cinnamon swirl over it. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating attractive marbled patterns.
  6. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly when gently nudged. Avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking to prevent cracks on the surface.
  7. Cool the Cheesecake: Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. After that, remove the pan and transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set fully.
  8. Make the Optional Glaze: Beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream until smooth and drizzle it over the chilled cheesecake just before serving for an extra creamy finish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother batter and even baking.
  • Be careful not to overmix the batter, especially after adding eggs, to avoid incorporating too much air which can cause cracks.
  • Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually and chilling it overnight helps prevent cracking and improves texture.
  • The heavy cream in the filling is optional but adds extra richness and creaminess.
  • The optional cream cheese glaze adds a lovely tangy sweetness to pair with the cinnamon swirl.
  • If you don’t have a springform pan, make sure to line your pan generously with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: cinnamon roll cheesecake, cinnamon swirl cheesecake, creamy cheesecake dessert, easy cinnamon dessert, baked cheesecake recipe