If you’re dreaming of a dessert that marries classic comfort with irresistible elegance, Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the showstopper you’ve been searching for. Imagine the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake swirled with gooey cinnamon filling, all perched atop a buttery graham cracker crust and finished with billowy cream cheese frosting. Every bite is a warm hug—a little bit nostalgic, a little bit luxurious, and absolutely unforgettable!

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, supermarket-friendly ingredients are the building blocks of your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake masterpiece. Each component plays a special role, working together to create magic with texture and flavor, turning ordinary baking moments into something truly extraordinary.

Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are the start of a sturdy, subtly sweet crust that keeps every slice together beautifully.
Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramel notes and richness to both the crust and the cinnamon swirl, enhancing the signature cinnamon roll flavor.
Cinnamon: The unmistakable spice that infuses both warmth and that classic cinnamon roll aroma; don’t skimp on this!
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds your crust and cinnamon swirl, bringing all those flavors together with luscious moisture.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps give the cinnamon swirl its delightful crumbly texture inside the cheesecake.
Cream Cheese: The heart of any great cheesecake—full-fat blocks, softened, for ultra-creamy results.
Granulated Sugar: Balances the tang of the cream cheese and keeps the cheesecake perfectly sweet without overwhelming the flavors.
Sour Cream: Adds a little tang and silkiness to the cheesecake batter, keeping it light yet decadent.
Large Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness; make sure they’re at room temperature for the smoothest batter.
Vanilla Extract: A dash of pure vanilla weaves gorgeous aroma and warmth into every bite.
Salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness and elevate all the other flavors.
Powdered Sugar: Whips up into a creamy, luscious frosting that melts over each slice.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Fluffs up your cream cheese frosting, so it’s light, dreamy, and pipeable for decorations.
Cinnamon Powder: For dusting over your finished masterpiece and giving an extra whisper of spice right before serving.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Step 1: Craft the Graham Cracker Crust

Preheat your oven to 325ºF to ensure an even baking journey from the start. Pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs, then stir in brown sugar and cinnamon for that cozy, classic flavor. Melted butter brings it all together—press the mixture firmly into the base of a deep 8- or 9-inch pan, making sure you reach every edge. Bake for 10 minutes to set, then allow to cool as you prepare the next layers of magic.

Step 2: Mix Up the Gooey Cinnamon Swirl

Combine brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon in a bowl; then drizzle in the melted butter until it resembles thick, aromatic sand. Set this aside—it’s your soon-to-be signature swirl that gives the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake its unforgettable, ribboned look and taste.

Step 3: Blend the Cheesecake Batter

Grease your pan to prevent stubborn sticking. With a mixer, whip the cream cheese for about three minutes until it’s cloud-like, then beat in the two sugars. Remember to pause for gentle bowl scraping (it guarantees a lump-free, dreamy texture). Mix in the sour cream, then beat in the eggs one by one—this patience keeps your cheesecake ultra-smooth and helps avoid cracks. Finish with vanilla and salt, blending just enough to bring it all together.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Spoon one third of the cheesecake batter over your cooled crust, then sprinkle on a third of the cinnamon mixture, pinching it into smaller bits for maximum swirl. Repeat these layers until both batters are used up, ending with the cinnamon swirl on top. Gently spread with a spatula to nestle the swirl just under the surface—this helps prevent cracking and creates those luxurious, spiraled layers.

Step 5: Bake with a Water Bath

Wrap the bottom of your pan in foil—a couple of layers keeps the water out. Position the cheesecake pan in a larger roasting pan, then carefully pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides. This gentle water bath bakes your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake to creamy perfection. After 60 to 75 minutes, test for doneness with a gentle jiggle; the edges should be set, but the center still slightly wobbly. Let it rest in the turned-off oven for an hour, then transfer to the fridge for at least six hours to set completely.

Step 6: Make and Pipe the Cream Cheese Frosting

Whip cream cheese until smooth, then blend in powdered sugar and vanilla for a classic tangy-sweet flavor. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks (this is your secret to fluffy, cloudlike frosting), then fold into the cream cheese mixture. Transfer to a piping bag and swirl generously over the top of your chilled cheesecake, finishing with an extra dusting of cinnamon powder for that cinnamon roll charm.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Garnishes

For the ultimate finishing touch, I always love a snowy dusting of cinnamon powder atop the swirled cream cheese frosting—it’s both pretty and aromatic. You could also add a light drizzle of caramel, a scattering of chopped toasted pecans, or even a whisper of orange zest for a hint of brightness. These thoughtful finishes elevate the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake into a true centerpiece dessert.

Side Dishes

Since Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is indulgent, pair it with something light and fresh. Try serving with a vibrant fruit salad of berries and oranges—the tartness slices through the richness. Hot coffee or a gently spiced chai latte also makes a cozy companion, balancing every creamy bite with just the right amount of warmth and contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake presentation with a few fun ideas! Cut into elegant wedges and serve on beautiful cake stands for that “wow” factor at gatherings. For a brunch buffet, cut into small bars and display on a rustic wooden board, or layer cubes of cheesecake in parfait glasses with extra cinnamon crumb for a playful (and portable) twist. However you serve it, those signature swirls will steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake fresh by storing slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll hold its best texture and flavor for up to five days, making it a fantastic option for both planned dinners and spontaneous sweet cravings. If possible, store the frosting separately and add just before serving for the freshest effect.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake with great results! Simply wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake tightly in both plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving—no need to wait for a special occasion!

Reheating

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you like a little warmth, let a slice come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the texture. If you really want that just-baked feel, a quick 10-second zap (unfrosted) works, but keep an eye on it.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes best after a night in the fridge, which gives the flavors time to meld and the texture to firm up. Prepare it a day or two in advance for stress-free entertaining.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

To get those drool-worthy, bakery-perfect slices, use a long, sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. You can also dip the blade in hot water and dry it with a towel for extra precision.

Can I use a different crust for this cheesecake?

Definitely! While graham crackers are classic, digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even cinnamon graham crackers make lovely alternatives. Play around with different bases to find your favorite flavor pairing.

How do I keep my cheesecake from cracking?

Baking your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake in a water bath is key to a silky, crack-free result. Make sure your mixture isn’t over-beaten after the eggs are added and let the baked cheesecake cool gradually in the oven before chilling completely.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, the recipe uses regular flour and graham crackers, but you can easily swap in gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free flour blend for the cinnamon swirl to keep it celiac-friendly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that will wow your guests and delight your tastebuds, you simply must bake this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake. It’s the fabulous fusion of two beloved sweets, and there’s nothing quite like seeing those swoon-worthy cinnamon swirls when you slice in. Grab your ingredients and treat yourself—you’re about to discover a new family tradition!