Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

What if you could achieve the rich, gooey satisfaction of a fresh cinnamon roll and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake in a single, no-fuss dessert? While many believe such decadence requires a pastry chef’s skill, this recipe proves otherwise. This guide will walk you through creating the ultimate Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple to master.

By using a clever shortcut with canned cinnamon roll dough, you can build layers of flavor without the hassle of making dough from scratch. The result is a stunning dessert that perfectly marries the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon with the smooth, tangy richness of cream cheese. This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is guaranteed to become the star of any brunch, holiday gathering, or simply a well-deserved treat.

Ingredients

This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake recipe combines the warm, spiced aroma of cinnamon buns with the rich, creamy texture of a classic cheesecake for an unforgettable dessert experience.

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for filling swirl)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for filling swirl)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for filling swirl)
• Cream cheese frosting for topping (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	30 minutes
Cook Time	1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 45 minutes (plus chilling)

Context: This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes that require separate dough proofing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Separate the cinnamon rolls from a standard can and press them evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to create a compact, uniform layer.

For a crispier crust, you can pre-bake it for 8-10 minutes before adding the filling. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake batter.

Step 2 — Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat room-temperature cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. This is crucial for achieving the signature creamy texture of a perfect Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. Overmixing at this stage can incorporate too much air and cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.

Step 3 — Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create a thick, spreadable paste. This will be your cinnamon swirl mixture.

Scoop about 1 cup of the plain cheesecake batter into a separate bowl and gently fold in the cinnamon mixture until marbled. Be careful not to overmix; you want distinct ribbons of cinnamon.

Step 4 — Layer the Batters

Pour the majority of the plain cheesecake batter over the prepared cinnamon roll crust. Then, dollop the cinnamon-swirled batter randomly on top.

Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the batters together, creating a beautiful marbled effect. Aim for large, defined swirls rather than overmixing it into a homogenous color.

Step 5 — Bake the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.

This slight jiggle is the key doneness cue; the residual heat will continue to cook the center as it cools, preventing overbaking and a dry texture.

Step 6 — Cool Slowly to Prevent Cracking

Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake cool inside the oven for about an hour. This gradual temperature change is the best defense against cracks.

After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and run a thin knife around the edge of the pan to release it from the sides, which also helps prevent cracking as it contracts while cooling.

Step 7 — Chill Thoroughly Before Serving

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. Then, cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight.

This extended chilling time is non-negotiable for a firm, sliceable texture and for the flavors to fully develop and meld together.

Step 8 — Add the Final Toppings

Step 9 — Slice and Serve

Just before serving, drizzle the top of the chilled cheesecake with the cream cheese icing that came with the cinnamon rolls, or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. Serve this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake cold and enjoy the incredible fusion of flavors.

Nutritional Information

Calories	585
Protein	9g
Carbohydrates	62g
Fat	34g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	380mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese — Use plain, non-fat Greek yogurt to significantly increase the protein content while reducing fat. The tangy flavor complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Almond or Coconut Flour — Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free, lower-carb alternative to create the cinnamon roll base. This adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices.
• Monk Fruit or Erythritol — Replace granulated sugar with a natural, zero-calorie sweetener to make this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake lower in carbohydrates and suitable for a keto diet.
• Coconut Cream for Dairy — For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk or a store-bought vegan cream cheese alternative. This maintains the rich, creamy texture essential for cheesecake.
• Applesauce for Butter/Oil — Substitute unsweetened applesauce in the cinnamon swirl and crust to reduce fat content while adding natural moisture and a subtle fruitiness.
• Reduce Added Salt — Simply omit or drastically reduce the salt in the recipe to create a low-sodium version without compromising the warm, spiced flavor profile.
• Protein Powder Infusion — Add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder to the cheesecake filling to boost protein, making this dessert more satiating.

Serving Suggestions

• For a classic pairing, serve this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the richness.
• Elevate the dessert for a special occasion by adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce.
• Perfect for a holiday brunch, pair slices with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or sautéed apples to add a refreshing element.
• For an elegant plating tip, dust the top with a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and a few toasted pecans just before serving.
• Turn it into a show-stopping dessert by serving it slightly warm, which enhances the cinnamon roll flavor and makes the cheesecake incredibly creamy.

This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is versatile enough for a cozy family gathering or as the grand finale to a festive dinner party.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy batter. Fix: Always bring cream cheese to room temperature for at least an hour to ensure a silky smooth filling.
• Mistake: Overmixing the batter after adding eggs, which incorporates too much air. Fix: Mix on low speed just until the eggs are incorporated to prevent cracking.
• Mistake: Not properly preparing the springform pan, causing leaks. Fix: Wrap the outside of the pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil for a watertight seal.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, resulting in a dry, cracked top. Fix: Bake low and slow in a water bath to ensure gentle, even cooking.
• Mistake: Opening the oven door during baking, which causes a sudden temperature drop. Fix: Resist the urge to peek until the minimum bake time has passed.
• Mistake: Adding a swirl too aggressively, which muddles the distinct cinnamon roll flavor. Fix: Use a knife to gently marble the cinnamon-sugar mixture for defined swirls.
• Mistake: Skipping the cooling steps and refrigerating the cheesecake while it’s still warm. Fix: Let it cool gradually in the turned-off oven, then on the counter, before chilling.
• Mistake: Using a knife to cut slices, which squishes the beautiful layers. Fix: Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut for pristine slices.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For a warm slice, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Always allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make the crust soggy.

Conclusion

I hope you love making and eating this stunning Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake as much as I do. It’s the perfect showstopping dessert for any special occasion. If you’re looking for another delicious treat featuring cream cheese, try my Cream Cheese Pumpkin Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe. Please leave a comment below with your results or any questions!

Print

FAQs

Can I make this Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. For the best texture and flavor, bake and chill it completely, then store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter and use a water bath during baking to ensure gentle, even heat. Let the Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake cool gradually in the turned-off oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.

What is the best way to slice this cheesecake cleanly?

Use a long, thin knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This technique creates beautifully clean slices, preserving the gorgeous layers of your Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for a perfect presentation.