Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Introduction

Imagine a dessert that blends the spiced warmth of cinnamon rolls with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake will quickly become your favorite indulgence! This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is exactly that! Yes, we’re talking about Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake with Cream Cheese Icing—a dessert that’s equal parts indulgent and irresistible. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a holiday dinner, or a weekend treat, this layered beauty fits right in.

The best part? It’s as versatile as it is delicious. You can go the homemade route for the cinnamon roll base or save time with store-bought options. The cheesecake layer, meanwhile, is silky and perfectly flavored, thanks to cream cheese, vanilla, and a hint of sour cream. And let’s not forget the tangy cream cheese icing, which takes this dessert from “amazing” to “why don’t I make this every weekend?”

Ready to dive into the magic of combining two iconic desserts? Trust me, this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is going to be a keeper.

Reasons to Love Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

1. It’s Two Desserts in One: Cinnamon rolls meet cheesecake for the ultimate flavor mash-up.
2. Perfect for Special Occasions: From birthdays to holidays, this dessert steals the show.
3. Layers of Flavor and Texture: Spiced cinnamon roll base, creamy cheesecake, and tangy icing.
4. Beginner-Friendly: Clear, step-by-step instructions make this suitable for all skill levels.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a family gathering or a potluck, everyone will ask for seconds.

Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Cinnamon Roll Base:

• 1 package of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (or homemade cinnamon rolls, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Cheesecake Layer:

• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Crushed nuts
• Caramel drizzle
• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Base

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Roll Out the Cinnamon Rolls: If using refrigerated cinnamon rolls, unroll them and press them into the base of a greased 9-inch springform pan. For homemade rolls, roll out the dough and layer as needed.
3. Add Flavor: Brush the base with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
4. Set Aside: Place the prepared base in the refrigerator while you make the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Blend Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until creamy.
2. Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (if using) until well combined.

3. Assemble and Swirl

1. Pour the Filling: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cinnamon roll base.
2. Add a Swirl: Sprinkle some cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon through the batter for a marbled effect.

4. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Prepare a Water Bath: Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking dish. Add hot water to the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
2. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
3. Cool: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked for 1 hour. Then, remove and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Mix Ingredients: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until a creamy icing forms.
2. Adjust Consistency: Add more milk if needed for a drizzleable consistency.

6. Assemble and Serve

1. Ice the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the cream cheese icing evenly on top.
2. Add Toppings: Sprinkle crushed nuts, cinnamon sugar, or drizzle caramel sauce for added flair.
3. Slice and Enjoy: Use a warm knife for clean cuts.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of cream cheese and cinnamon shines when you use the best.
• Chill for Best Results: Cooling the cheesecake completely enhances its texture and flavor.
• Prevent Cracks: Always use a water bath and avoid overbaking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the cheesecake a day in advance for stress-free serving.
• Customize Your Dessert: Add raisins, pecans, or chocolate chips to the cinnamon roll base for extra variety.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, keep the cheesecake on its base to avoid crushing or smearing the icing. If transporting, place slices in individual containers.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices without the icing for up to 3 months. To ensure the freshest flavor, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add icing fresh before serving. Consider freezing extra icing separately in a small container; thaw it alongside the cheesecake and whisk before use.
• Storage Note: Avoid keeping the cheesecake at room temperature for extended periods, as it contains dairy that can spoil quickly. Always refrigerate promptly after serving to maintain both flavor and safety.

FAQs

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this cheesecake with hot coffee, spiced lattes, or even a chilled glass of milk for a comforting dessert experience that’s perfect any time of day. You might even consider a chai latte or a cinnamon-infused tea to complement the warm spice flavors.
• Garnish each slice with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon for a festive and visually appealing presentation. For an extra pop of texture, add crushed pecans or walnuts on top.
• Serve alongside other crowd-pleasers like the Churro Cheesecake Recipe for Spiced Dessert Lovers, which offers a similar warm-spiced profile, or Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes for Creamy Desserts for a contrasting flavor and size.
• For special gatherings, consider setting up a dessert bar where this cheesecake is the star. Pair it with toppings like caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or fruit compote so guests can customize their slice.
• If you’re serving during the holiday season, complement the cheesecake with mulled wine or eggnog for a festive pairing that’s bound to impress.

Detailed Recipe Card

Ingredients:

Cinnamon Roll Base: 1 package refrigerated rolls, 2 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tbsp cinnamon.
Cheesecake Layer: 3 (8 oz) cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, 3 eggs, 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tsp vanilla, 1 tsp cinnamon.
Icing: 4 oz cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, 1 tsp vanilla.

Instructions:

1. Prepare cinnamon roll base in springform pan.
2. Mix and pour cheesecake filling, swirl in cinnamon.
3. Bake in a water bath for 60-70 minutes.
4. Cool and chill for 3+ hours.
5. Spread icing, add toppings, slice, and serve.

Author’s Section

This recipe is inspired by my love for blending classics with a twist. For more creative desserts, check out Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies as a Decadent Treat. Let’s keep baking!

Reader Interaction

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Additional Links

• Churro Cheesecake Recipe for Spiced Dessert Lovers
• Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes for Creamy Desserts
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies as a Decadent Treat