If you adore the sweet, buttery swirls of cinnamon rolls and the rich creaminess of cheesecake, you’re about to meet your new obsession. This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe effortlessly brings together two dessert classics into one dazzling treat. A crunchy graham cracker crust, decadent cinnamon sugar layers, and smooth, tangy cheesecake filling unite to create an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or after-dinner celebrations. Each bite is a blissful harmony of flavors and textures—so get ready to impress your family and friends with a truly unforgettable slice!

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is incredibly straightforward, but each one plays a unique role in achieving the perfect taste and texture for every layer. These essentials promise everything from a crisp crust to a cloud-like filling, with just the right burst of cinnamon spice in each bite.

Graham cracker crumbs: Form the sturdy, slightly sweet base that balances all the creamy layers above.
Sugar: Adds the right touch of sweetness to both the crust and cheesecake, enhancing every flavor note.
Melted butter: Binds the crust together while lending richness and a hint of golden color.
Unsalted butter (softened): The secret to a silky cinnamon roll layer and a perfectly creamy frosting.
Brown sugar: Brings deep, caramel-like sweetness to the cinnamon mixture and swirl, setting this recipe apart.
Ground cinnamon: Delivers that signature warmth and spice you crave in a true cinnamon roll.
Cream cheese (softened): The star of the show for a smooth, dreamy cheesecake layer and luscious frosting.
Eggs: Give the cheesecake that iconic lift and custardy, velvety texture.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out each bite with fragrant, comforting notes.
Sour cream: Adds tang to the cheesecake while keeping it incredibly soft and light.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese frosting, dissolving perfectly for a silky finish.
Milk (optional): Helps you achieve just-the-right spreadable consistency in your frosting, if needed.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and looks like wet sand, then press it firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool—this gives you a solid, flavorful foundation for all the cinnamon goodness to come.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Roll Layer

While your crust is cooling, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread this cinnamon mixture right over your cooled crust. Don’t be afraid to be generous—this is where the roll-inspired magic really begins!

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is ultra-smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each is incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, blending until fully combined with a light, fluffy texture. Pour half of the cheesecake filling gently over the cinnamon roll layer so you preserve those gorgeous layers.

Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Swirl

Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for your swirl in a small bowl. Sprinkle half of this mixture over the cheesecake filling layer in your pan, swirling lightly with a toothpick or knife for a beautiful marbled effect. Pour the remaining cheesecake filling on top and finish with the rest of the cinnamon swirl, swirling again if you’d like to create dramatic cinnamon ribbons throughout.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 55 to 65 minutes. You’re looking for the center to be set but still have a gentle jiggle. Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake sit for one hour to cool slowly—this helps prevent cracks. Afterward, let it cool to room temperature, then chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set perfectly.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cheesecake is chilling, whip up your dreamy frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until luxurious and spreadable. Add a splash of milk if needed for a silky finish that’s easy to swoop over the chilled cake.

Step 7: Serve

Spread the rich cream cheese frosting across the top of your fully cooled cheesecake. Slice into thick, gorgeous wedges and savor every dreamy, cinnamon-infused bite!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe truly shines with a few thoughtful garnishes. Try a sprinkle of extra ground cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or a scattering of chopped pecans or walnuts. Even a few curls of white chocolate or fresh berries can add color and contrast, making each slice as pretty as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

Pair your cheesecake with light and simple sides to let its flavors take center stage. Fresh fruit salad, roasted strawberries, or a crisp green apple slaw can balance the richness, while a hot cup of coffee, espresso, or chai tea complements the cinnamon undertones beautifully for a cozy dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

It’s easy to wow your guests with presentation! Try serving mini slices on individual dessert plates with a swirl of sauce or a dusting of cinnamon. For a brunch buffet, cut into bite-sized squares or bars. You can even serve it parfait-style in jars—layer cubes of cheesecake with piped frosting and extra cinnamon swirl for a playful, portable twist on the classic Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, and the flavors will meld together even more beautifully over time.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully! Slice the cooled cheesecake, wrap individual pieces or the whole cake securely in plastic wrap, then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slices in the fridge overnight before serving—perfect for those days when a craving for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe strikes unexpectedly.

Reheating

While this cheesecake is usually served chilled, if you’d like a slightly warm bite (think warm cinnamon rolls!), pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat or the frosting may melt completely. Enjoy the tender, gooey comfort in every forkful!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust for this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe?

Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust is classic, feel free to swap in crushed vanilla wafers, gingersnaps, or even cinnamon toast cereal for a creative spin. Each will offer a unique flavor and texture that can complement the cinnamon swirl beautifully.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Cracks in cheesecake are common and typically caused by overmixing or sudden temperature changes. To avoid this, mix until just combined and always let your cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked open, just like in this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes! Swap in gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this show-stopping cheesecake.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

You’ll want the edges to look set but the center to have a gentle wobble when you jiggle the pan. The residual heat will finish the job as the cheesecake cools, ensuring a creamy, smooth texture every time you make this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe.

Can I skip the frosting on top?

Of course! The cream cheese frosting is a sweet, tangy finish, but if you prefer a lighter dessert, simply dust the top with cinnamon and powdered sugar or serve as-is for a more classic cheesecake vibe.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe a try—it’s a dessert that turns ordinary days into memorable celebrations and brings smiles to every table. Gather your ingredients, dive in with both hands, and enjoy every cinnamon-swirled, cheesecake-laden bite!