Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

This dessert combines a creamy cheesecake with gooey cinnamon roll swirls on top of a cinnamon graham crust, rich, soft, and packed with flavor.

This cheesecake is essentially a fusion dessert combining the soft, spiced sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the rich creaminess of classic cheesecake. It’s designed to be ultra-creamy, layered with cinnamon flavor, and best enjoyed after chilling overnight for maximum texture and taste.

🕒 Time & Yield

• Prep time: ~45 minutes
• Cook time: ~50–55 minutes
• Total time: ~4.5 hours (including chilling)
• Servings: 16 slices

🧾 Ingredients

1. Graham Cracker Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

2. Cinnamon Swirl

• ⅓ cup melted butter
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar
• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

3. Cheesecake Filling

• 3 packs (8 oz each) cream cheese (room temp)
• 8 oz sour cream
• 1¼ cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

4. Optional Whipped Cream

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Oven

• Preheat to 325°F (163°C)
• Place a pan of water in the oven for steam (prevents cracks)

Step 2: Make Crust

• Mix crumbs, butter, sugar, cinnamon, salt
• Press into a greased 9-inch pan
• Pack firmly and set aside

Step 3: Make Cinnamon Swirl

• Combine butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt
• Mix until crumbly (like wet sand)

Step 4: Make Cheesecake Batter

• Beat cream cheese, sour cream, sugar until smooth
• Add eggs and vanilla
• Mix gently (avoid overmixing)

Step 5: Layer & Swirl

• Pour half batter into crust
• Add half cinnamon mixture
• Swirl lightly with knife
• Repeat with remaining batter + swirl

Step 6: Bake

• Bake for 50–55 minutes
• Edges set, center slightly jiggly

Step 7: Cool Slowly

• Turn off oven, crack door
• Leave inside for 1 hour
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight)

Step 8: Serve

• Add whipped cream if desired
• Let sit 10–15 minutes before slicing for best texture

⚠️ Key Tips

• Always use room temperature ingredients
• Don’t overmix (prevents cracks)
• Cheesecake should still jiggle slightly when done

Read Also: Homemade Classic Vanilla Cake