Cinnamon roll cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of cinnamon rolls. This irresistible dessert is the best of both worlds, featuring a buttery, flaky cinnamon roll crust and a velvety cheesecake filling topped with swirls of cinnamon and sugar. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, cinnamon roll cheesecake is a show-stopper that’s sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect cinnamon roll cheesecake, from the crust to the filling, and offer tips for customizing the recipe to your liking.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Delicious Fusion: This dessert marries the comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll with the creamy goodness of cheesecake, creating a rich and indulgent treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday, or a casual weekend dessert, this cheesecake is sure to delight your guests.
- Easy to Make: While it may seem complex, making cinnamon roll cheesecake is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it.
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative by adding extra toppings, like caramel drizzle or whipped cream, for an extra touch of sweetness.
Table of contents
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
To create the perfect cinnamon roll cheesecake, you’ll need a combination of ingredients for both the cinnamon roll crust and the creamy cheesecake filling. Below is everything you’ll need to get started:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon rolls (store-bought) | 2 cans (8 rolls each) | The base for the crust, providing a buttery, flaky layer with cinnamon and sugar. |
| Cream cheese | 3 (8 oz) packages | The foundation for the creamy cheesecake filling. |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the richness of the cream cheese. |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup | Adds creaminess and helps achieve the smooth texture of the cheesecake. |
| Eggs | 3 large | Helps set the cheesecake filling, making it rich and smooth. |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake. |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon | Stabilizes the cheesecake filling, preventing it from cracking. |
| Butter (melted) | 1/4 cup | Helps bind the cinnamon rolls together in the crust. |
| Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon | Adds a warm spice that infuses the crust and filling with flavor. |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup | Adds sweetness and depth to the cinnamon roll crust. |
| Heavy cream | 1/4 cup | Adds richness and smoothness to the cheesecake filling. |
| Salt | Pinch | Enhances and balances the sweetness of the dessert. |
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top of the cheesecake for extra richness.
- Whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and texture.
- Chopped nuts: Pecans or walnuts can add a crunchy topping if desired.
Ingredient Notes for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Cinnamon rolls: Store-bought cinnamon rolls work best for the crust, as they provide the perfect texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can also use homemade cinnamon rolls, but the store-bought version makes this recipe quick and easy.
- Cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before making the filling. This ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
- Sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor to the cheesecake, balancing out the sweetness from the sugar and cinnamon.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Creating the perfect cinnamon roll cheesecake may seem like a challenge, but it’s easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this decadent dessert:
1. Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Crust
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures your cheesecake will bake at the right temperature.
- Prepare the cinnamon rolls: Open the cans of store-bought cinnamon rolls. Arrange the rolls in the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Press them down to create an even layer, covering the bottom of the pan.
- Melt the butter: In a small bowl, melt 1/4 cup of butter and pour it over the cinnamon rolls. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon over the rolls to enhance the flavor of the crust.
- Bake the crust: Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the rolls are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add sugar and flour: Add 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of flour. Beat until combined and smooth.
- Add sour cream and vanilla: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs: Add the 3 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix at this stage to prevent cracking in the cheesecake.
- Add heavy cream: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream to give the filling a smooth and creamy texture.
3. Assemble the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Pour the filling: Once the cinnamon roll crust has cooled, pour the cheesecake filling over the cinnamon roll crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Swirl the cinnamon: If you like, add an extra sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the cheesecake filling and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the filling. This will create beautiful cinnamon swirls throughout the cheesecake.
4. Bake the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you shake the pan.
- Cool the cheesecake: Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate: After the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Remove from the springform pan: Once the cheesecake has chilled and set, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
- Garnish: Drizzle with caramel sauce or add a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or extra cinnamon for added flavor.
- Slice and enjoy: Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve. Enjoy the perfect combination of cinnamon rolls and cheesecake in every bite!
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
To ensure your cinnamon roll cheesecake turns out rich, creamy, and perfectly baked, follow these helpful tips:
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
- Soften your cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before you begin. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.
- Bring eggs to room temperature: Similarly, allow the eggs to come to room temperature to avoid curdling the filling when mixed with the cream cheese.
2. Avoid Overmixing the Batter
- Mix just enough: When incorporating the eggs into the cheesecake batter, mix just until combined. Overmixing can add air to the filling, which may cause cracks to form as it bakes.
- Gentle mixing: The goal is to keep the filling smooth and creamy, but without introducing too much air into the mixture. This will help prevent any unsightly cracks.
3. Prevent Cheesecake Cracks
- Don’t open the oven: Once your cinnamon roll cheesecake is in the oven, avoid opening the oven door too frequently. The change in temperature can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
- Use a water bath: If you want to ensure your cheesecake stays extra smooth, you can place the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water while baking. This method helps keep the temperature even, reducing the chances of cracks.
- Cool gradually: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for at least 1 hour before refrigerating. This helps the cheesecake set gradually, preventing cracks due to a sudden temperature change.
4. Allow Sufficient Chilling Time
- Chill for at least 4 hours: Allow your cinnamon roll cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This gives the cheesecake time to firm up and allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
- Serve chilled: Cheesecake is best served chilled. Allowing it to sit for a few hours after removing it from the fridge helps it hold its shape when slicing.
5. Make the Crust Extra Flavorful
- Don’t skip the cinnamon sugar: The cinnamon-sugar mixture in the crust is key to achieving that classic cinnamon roll flavor. Be sure to add the brown sugar and cinnamon to the crust for extra sweetness and warmth.
- Crust alternative: If you prefer, you can make a homemade cinnamon roll crust instead of using store-bought rolls. This will add a bit more time to the recipe but can provide a fresher flavor.
6. Experiment with Toppings
- Add caramel sauce: For extra sweetness, drizzle caramel sauce over the cheesecake before serving. You can also add some whipped cream for a creamy topping.
- Use toasted nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts make a great crunchy topping that complements the soft, creamy texture of the cheesecake.
- Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving enhances the cinnamon flavor.
7. Make it Gluten-Free
- Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls: If you need to make this dessert gluten-free, simply use gluten-free cinnamon rolls for the crust and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Gluten-free flour option: For the cheesecake filling, you can use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour to help set the filling without compromising texture.
8. Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container: If you have leftover cheesecake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: To keep your cheesecake fresh for a longer period, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Do Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Need to Be Refrigerated?
If you’re making cream cheese cinnamon rolls from scratch, or if you’re using store-bought rolls with cream cheese filling, it’s important to refrigerate them if you’re not planning to bake or serve them right away. Here’s why:
- Before baking: If you’ve made the cinnamon rolls in advance, cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to 24 hours before baking.
- After baking: If you have leftover cinnamon rolls with cream cheese filling, they should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy their freshly baked flavor.
How Do You Not Overcook Cheesecake?
To avoid overcooking your cinnamon roll cheesecake and ensuring it stays creamy and smooth:
- Monitor the time: Bake your cheesecake at the recommended temperature (325°F or 163°C) and check for doneness around 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you shake the pan.
- Use a water bath: If you’re concerned about overcooking, you can use a water bath (placing your cheesecake pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water) to help regulate the heat and prevent the cheesecake from baking too quickly.
- Turn off the oven: After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour. This helps the cheesecake finish cooking without overheating.
How Do You Store No-Bake Cheesecake?
If you’re making a no-bake cheesecake instead of a traditional baked version, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set properly. It will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze a no-bake cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for 1-2 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Should the Cinnamon Rolls Touch or Be Kept Apart While Baking?
When making the cinnamon roll crust for your cheesecake, the rolls should touch each other, but not be overly crowded. Here’s why:
- Touching lightly: When the cinnamon rolls touch slightly, they form a cohesive crust as they bake, holding together and supporting the cheesecake filling.
- Don’t overcrowd: However, you don’t want the rolls to be too close together, as they may not bake evenly. Give them a bit of space for the heat to circulate properly, ensuring a crispy, golden crust.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats—the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake and the warm, spiced flavor of cinnamon rolls. With a buttery, flaky cinnamon roll crust and a smooth, velvety cheesecake filling, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or just want a comforting dessert, cinnamon roll cheesecake is a winner.
By following the tips and techniques in this guide, you can easily make the perfect cheesecake with a cinnamon roll twist. From creating the perfect crust to baking the cheesecake just right, every step ensures your dessert will come out looking and tasting amazing. Don’t forget to get creative with garnishes and toppings for that extra touch of indulgence.