If you love the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then you are absolutely going to swoon over this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe. This luscious dessert combines the best of both worlds into one irresistible treat: a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of silky cream cheese batter swirled with cinnamon sugar, and a touch of sweet glaze on top. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a festive brunch, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake promises to deliver cozy, rich flavors that feel like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a distinct role, from the crispy, buttery crust to the creamy cheesecake middle, and the cinnamon sugar swirl that brings a perfect hint of spice and sweetness to each slice.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crisp and slightly sweet base to contrast the creamy filling.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient, giving the cheesecake its luscious, velvety texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the creamy filling evenly without overpowering the cinnamon notes.
- 3 large eggs: Binds and adds structure, ensuring a smooth, perfect bake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors with a subtle, fragrant sweetness.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a slight tang and moisture for the softest cheesecake texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Key for that warm, deep caramel flavor in the cinnamon swirl.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Delivers the classic cinnamon roll warmth and aroma.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Combines with cornstarch to create a shiny glaze on top.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the glaze for a perfect finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and accentuates the other flavors beautifully.
How to Make Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until they hold together like damp sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a even crust that will hold all that rich filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese along with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy—this step is the foundation of that silky cheesecake texture everyone loves. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition to keep the batter perfectly smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is well combined and glossy.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, whisk the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. This cinnamon swirl is what truly defines this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe, giving it that unmistakable cozy and sweet spice flavor reminiscent of fresh cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over your prepared crust, then evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon sugar. Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter to create beautiful marbled patterns that bake into every slice.
Step 5: Add the Glaze and Bake
Mix the heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt in a small bowl until fully combined, then drizzle this mixture over the top of the cheesecake. Pop it into the oven for 50 to 60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly—a little wobble means perfect creaminess.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for an hour to cool gradually and prevent cracks. Afterwards, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling step is essential for that firm yet creamy finish that makes this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe so special.
How to Serve Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
This cheesecake is a showstopper on its own, but adding a few garnishes can elevate it even further. Try a dollop of whipped cream, a light drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top. Fresh berries also add a lovely pop of color and a tart contrast to the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent brunch or dessert experience. Light fruit salads or a scoop of vanilla ice cream work wonders as simple sides that complement, rather than overshadow, the rich flavors of the cheesecake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, slice the cheesecake into smaller squares and serve on individual plates with a cinnamon stick for stirring. Or, plate slices with a dusting of powdered sugar and edible flowers to make each serving visually delightful and irresistibly inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. It will keep beautifully for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance or save some for later, the cheesecake freezes well. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
Because cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is usually not necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, allow slices to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can affect texture negatively.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust adds great flavor and texture, you can experiment with crushed cookies like gingersnaps or digestive biscuits for a unique twist.
Do I have to use sour cream in this recipe?
Sour cream adds a subtle tang and rich moisture that balances the sweetness and helps prevent cracking. If you don’t have it, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute.
How do I prevent cracks on top of my cheesecake?
Cooling the cheesecake gradually by leaving the oven door slightly open, as described in the recipe, helps prevent cracks. Also, avoid overbaking—the center should still jiggle slightly when done.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Will the cinnamon sugar swirl sink to the bottom?
The swirling technique described ensures even distribution throughout the cheesecake. Just gently swirl the batter to mix without over-blending, so those beautiful cinnamon ribbons stay visible.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe is one dessert that brings comfort and elegance together effortlessly. Every creamy forkful carries the nostalgia of cinnamon rolls and the luxurious melt-in-your-mouth richness of cheesecake. I can’t recommend it enough for your next special occasion or when you simply want to treat yourself to something truly marvelous. Go ahead, bake it, share it, and watch it disappear fast!
Print
Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is a luscious blend of creamy cheesecake layered with swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar, baked on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for fans of cinnamon rolls and rich, indulgent desserts, this recipe offers a marbled cinnamon-sugar swirl and a smooth, creamy texture, finished with a delicate drizzle of a heavy cream and cornstarch topping. Ideal for special occasions or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Batter
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Cinnamon Swirl
- 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 prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture is well mixed. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Set aside.
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy without any lumps.
- Add Eggs and Flavor: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of this batter layer. Repeat the process by adding the remaining batter and then the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Create Marbled Effect: Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the cheesecake batter to create a beautiful marbled pattern throughout the cheesecake.
- Prepare and Add Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake batter.
- Bake: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open. Let it cool gradually for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate: After cooling, remove the cheesecake from the oven. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing it to fully set and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all dairy ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Use a water bath if desired to prevent cracking, though the slow cooling step helps mitigate this as well.
- The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 1 month.
- For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of cream cheese frosting before serving.
