Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake | Easy Recipe For A Creamy, Dreamy Dessert

Why Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Is a Must-Bake

There are cheesecakes, and then there’s this: a soft, cinnamon-swirled cheesecake that tastes like your favorite morning pastry met your most indulgent dessert dream. If you love bold flavor combinations, this cinnamon roll cheesecake is exactly what you should bake next.

It combines the gooey warmth of a cinnamon roll with the rich smoothness of a classic New York-style cheesecake. The swirl of cinnamon sugar running through the creamy layers makes every bite feel like a bakery treat, and the cream cheese glaze on top seals the deal.

You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make this. We’re breaking down every step in an approachable way, just like we did with our chocolate chip cheesecake cookies and our soft, rich Twinkie cake. Whether you’re planning dessert for a weekend dinner, potluck, or just a cozy treat at home, this one never fails to impress.

And here’s the best part: this recipe keeps its structure beautifully, thanks to baking science principles backed by experts like King Arthur Baking and Serious Eats. So no sunken middles or soggy crusts here.

From your first slice, you’ll see why this recipe is a keeper. Ready to make a dessert that delivers on flavor and visual wow-factor? Let’s dive in.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

This dessert may look bakery-level, but the ingredient list is surprisingly simple. You’ll be using pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cinnamon, along with rich elements like cream cheese and sour cream for that classic cheesecake tang.

For the Cinnamon Roll Base

This acts as the crust, and the swirl is sweet, spiced, and just chewy enough.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling

Smooth, tangy, and ultra-creamy, the heart of your cinnamon roll cheesecake.

• 2 (8 oz) blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for extra warmth)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

You can drizzle this on top, or serve it on the side; either way, it brings the cinnamon roll vibe full circle.

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp milk (adjust for thickness)

Optional Add-Ins

Add texture or flavor by folding in:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts
• A sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking
• A swirl of caramel after baking

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gear, just a few baking basics. Having the right tools ensures a smooth process and a cheesecake that bakes evenly.

Try this ingredient pairing with our peanut butter brownie cheesecake ice cream, or build a full dessert board like we do in our perfect breakfast board guide.

Tip from the pros: For a stable cheesecake, always use room temperature ingredients. This helps everything blend evenly and prevents lumps, according to The Kitchn’s baking experts.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

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• Author: Lucy
• Total Time: 6 hours
• Yield: 1 9-inch cheesecake
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich, swirled cinnamon roll cheesecake with a soft crust and creamy filling, finished with a luscious cream cheese glaze.

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Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Roll Base:

1½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

2 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp salt

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling:

2 (8 oz) blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

½ cup sour cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1 tbsp all-purpose flour

½ tsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 tbsp butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

½ tsp vanilla extract

1–2 tbsp milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line with parchment.

2. Make cinnamon dough base by mixing dry and wet ingredients. Press 2/3 into the pan.

3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, vanilla, eggs, flour, and cinnamon.

4. Pour half the filling over the crust. Drop bits of dough and swirl. Add remaining filling and swirl again.

5. Bake 45–50 minutes until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.

6. Cool in oven 1 hour. Then cool on a rack. Chill in fridge 4+ hours.

7. Make cream cheese frosting. Drizzle before serving.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.

Don’t overmix eggs.

For a swirl, don’t overdo it; two swipes are enough.

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 50 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Step-by-Step Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe

How to Make the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Let’s turn those ingredients into a swirl of deliciousness. Follow these steps to make a cinnamon roll cheesecake that’s rich, fluffy, and Instagram-worthy.

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Base

This is where the magic begins.

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan. Reserve the rest for later.

Want more cinnamon-forward inspiration? Check out our homemade apple fritter cake for cozy fall vibes.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Creamy and smooth, this layer is the star.

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Add sugar and beat again until fluffy.
3. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and eggs one at a time.
4. Add flour and a dash of cinnamon. Mix until just combined. Don’t overbeat.

Tip: Don’t skip the flour it stabilizes your cinnamon roll cheesecake without changing texture, as confirmed by King Arthur Baking.

Step 3: Swirl and Bake

Time to layer and swirl your masterpiece.

1. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cinnamon base.
2. Break small bits of the reserved dough and sprinkle on top.
3. Add the remaining filling, then swirl with a knife for that cinnamon-roll effect.
4. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.

Pro Tip: Don’t overbake. The center should wobble a little; it’ll firm up as it cools.

Step 4: Cool and Frost

No shortcuts here, cooling matters.

1. Let your cheesecake sit in the turned-off oven (door slightly open) for 1 hour.
2. Then, cool it on a rack for another hour before chilling it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
3. Mix up your cream cheese frosting and drizzle it right before serving.

For more easy desserts like this, try our quick fudge recipe no bake, all flavor.

Why This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Works

This method gives you:

• A solid cinnamon crust that doesn’t get soggy
• Swirls that hold their shape
• A crack-free, creamy top layer

No need to guess, just follow the steps, and your cinnamon roll cheesecake will turn out bakery-perfect.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Every Time

Even simple recipes like this can be elevated with smart tweaks and baking know-how. Below are our top-tested tips and fixes to make sure your cinnamon roll cheesecake turns out flawless, every time.

Preventing Cracks and Sunken Centers

Nobody wants a cheesecake that looks like a dried-up crater. Here’s how to avoid that:

• Use a water bath (optional but helpful): Wrap your springform pan in foil and place it inside a larger baking dish with hot water. It evens out the heat and prevents cracking.
• Don’t overmix the eggs: Overbeating adds air, which causes puffing and collapsing. Mix eggs on low just until combined.
• Cool gradually: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven (turned off, door slightly open) before moving it to a wire rack. Sudden temp changes = cracks.

According to America’s Test Kitchen, sudden cooling and overbaking are the top causes of surface cracks.

Achieving the Perfect Swirl

The swirl is what sets this cinnamon roll cheesecake apart from ordinary cheesecake.

• Drop small spoonfuls of extra cinnamon dough throughout the filling.
• Use a butter knife to gently swirl without scraping the crust.
• Don’t over-swirl; two or three slow passes are enough for a marbled look.

Want another showstopper dessert with dramatic visuals? Try our create a magical Barbie cake that’s just as fun to slice.

Cheesecake Too Soft or Gritty?

If your cheesecake feels too soft or grainy, it’s likely one of these issues:

Room Temperature Ingredients Are Non-Negotiable

This one’s a must. Using cold ingredients makes everything harder to blend, leading to clumps and uneven baking.

• Let cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs sit out for 30–60 minutes.
• If short on time, cut the cream cheese into cubes to warm faster.

Serious Eats confirms this step improves texture and bake consistency.

Internal Links to Try Next:

Want to test more creamy desserts? Our Xango dessert is a deep-fried cheesecake favorite, and this easy chocolate malt ice cream gives you all the richness without baking.

Recap: What to Watch for

• Use full-fat ingredients
• Avoid overmixing
• Let it cool slowly
• Swirl carefully
• Chill completely

These pro-level techniques take your cinnamon roll cheesecake from good to great and help you avoid rookie baking mistakes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once you’ve created the perfect cinnamon roll cheesecake, storing it properly is key to preserving that creamy, dreamy texture.

How to Store

• Fridge: Store covered with foil or in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

According to Taste of Home, freezing a fully baked and cooled cheesecake works best just frost it after thawing.

Make-Ahead Tip

• Bake and refrigerate up to 2 days in advance.
• Add frosting just before serving so it stays fresh and glossy.

Creative Variations to Try

Switch things up and make this recipe your own with these fun flavor combos.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Perfect for fall gatherings, swap ¼ cup of sour cream with pumpkin purée and add ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice to the filling. It’s like a cheesecake met a pumpkin pie.

Want more cozy desserts? You’ll love this quick no-egg pumpkin dessert easy, warm, and microwave-friendly.

Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Cheesecake

Mix ¼ cup chopped pecans into your cinnamon dough and drizzle caramel sauce on top after baking. It adds crunch, richness, and visual wow.

• Try homemade caramel or a sea salt caramel drizzle from Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

A slice of cinnamon roll cheesecake is already spectacular, but here’s how to take it over the top.

Hosting a brunch? Pair your cheesecake with this perfect breakfast board for a sweet-savory combo your guests will rave about.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for Special Occasions

Whether you’re planning a cozy family brunch, a festive holiday spread, or a laid-back dessert night with friends, cinnamon roll cheesecake fits the mood perfectly. Its warm spice, rich texture, and beautiful swirl make it more than a dessert; it’s a centerpiece.

Why It’s a Showstopper

This cheesecake isn’t just about flavor; it’s about presentation. The cinnamon swirls baked into the creamy layers make every slice visually stunning, while the cream cheese glaze adds a bakery-finish look. It’s a dessert that doesn’t just sit on the table; it steals the spotlight.

Occasions to Serve It

• Holiday Brunch: Swap the usual cinnamon rolls for this elevated version at your Christmas or Easter table.
• Fall Gatherings: It pairs perfectly with pumpkin dishes, warm apple cider, and a cozy kitchen vibe.
• Birthday Treat: For anyone who prefers cheesecake over cake (you know the type), this is a no-brainer.
• Thanksgiving Alternative: Tired of pumpkin pie? Offer this as a creamy, spiced alternative.
• Mother’s Day Brunch: Pair it with mimosas, fresh fruit, and homemade apple fritter cake for a brunch spread she’ll never forget.

Presentation Tips

• Dust lightly with cinnamon before serving.
• Drizzle warm glaze just before guests arrive.
• Add a small cinnamon stick to each plate for a café-style touch.

Inspired to go full-out with your brunch table? Try creating your own perfect breakfast board alongside this cheesecake for a balanced sweet-savory vibe.

Make It Portable

Want to bring it to a potluck or gathering? Chill it overnight, then freeze it for 30 minutes before transport. This helps it stay firm in a cooler. Slice it just before serving for clean, bakery-perfect cuts.

Healthier Ingredient Swaps (Without Sacrificing Flavor)

You don’t have to give up indulgent desserts when you’re trying to lighten things up. This cinnamon roll cheesecake is surprisingly flexible; a few smart swaps can reduce sugar, fat, and carbs without losing that dreamy, spiced flavor.

Health-Conscious Substitutions

Here are some tried-and-tested swaps you can make based on your dietary needs:

Still want a full-fat treat without guilt? Try our easy chocolate malt ice cream it’s rich but portion-controlled!

Gluten-Free Version

Substitute flour in the crust and filling with a gluten-free baking blend. Many readers report success with Cup4Cup or Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1.

Bonus tip: Add a pinch of xanthan gum to help bind the dough if your blend doesn’t include it.

Low-Sugar Version

Use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit blend. Just remember: these sweeteners may not brown like sugar, so your swirl color might be a bit lighter, but the flavor will still pop.

Vegan Adaptation (Advanced)

You can create a dairy-free version using:

• Vegan cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Tofutti)
• Coconut cream in place of sour cream
• Flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water)

It’s not the same, but it creates a close-enough alternative for plant-based diets. Frost with a vegan buttercream or coconut glaze.

Craving more plant-forward sweets? Our quick no-egg pumpkin dessert is microwave-friendly and dairy-free!

Final Notes on Swaps

Start with one swap at a time and test in small batches. While this recipe is quite forgiving, changing multiple components can affect bake time and texture.

You’ll be surprised how little you sacrifice in taste with some of these adjustments; it’s still the same cozy, swirled cinnamon roll cheesecake, just a little lighter.

FAQ About Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Final Thoughts: Is Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Worth the Hype?

Absolutely. Whether you’re a cinnamon roll lover, cheesecake addict, or just someone looking to bake something unforgettable, this cinnamon roll cheesecake delivers comfort, creativity, and crave-worthy flavor in every swirl.

It’s perfect for birthdays, fall holidays, weekend baking projects, or just because you want to treat yourself (and you should).

If you’re ready to impress guests or satisfy your own sweet tooth with a dessert that’s creamy, cinnamon-laced, and completely over-the-top, then this is it.

For more dessert inspo, check out our peanut butter brownie cheesecake ice cream, which also combines rich textures and bold flavors.