If a cinnamon roll and a rich, creamy cheesecake had a baby, this would be it. Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mashup that brings together the warm, gooey comfort of cinnamon rolls with the smooth indulgence of cheesecake. Perfect for holiday gatherings or just a cozy night in, this dessert is an instant favorite for anyone who takes that first cinnamon-swirled bite.

What sets this cheesecake apart is the cinnamon sugar swirl that bakes right into the creamy filling, giving every slice a layered, cinnamon roll-like experience. Add a drizzle of cream cheese icing and you’re not just serving dessert; you’re serving smiles, memories, and second helpings.

What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

Full-fat cream cheese is best for this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake. It gives the cheesecake its signature richness and ensures a velvety texture. Avoid whipped or low-fat versions, as they can affect the final consistency and taste.

Ingredients for the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 (8 oz) packages full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for cinnamon swirl)
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp cream cheese, softened (for icing)
1 tbsp milk

How To Make the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Filling

Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until creamy. Blend in eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Pour half the cheesecake filling over the crust. Sprinkle half the cinnamon mixture on top and swirl gently. Repeat with remaining batter and cinnamon mix. Swirl the top layer again with a knife.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan in a water bath and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Let cool in the oven with door ajar for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Add the Cream Cheese Icing

Whisk powdered sugar, cream cheese, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over chilled cheesecake before serving.

How to Serve and Store Your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

For the ultimate slice, serve your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake chilled, with a fresh drizzle of cream cheese icing just before serving. This helps preserve the textures: a silky cheesecake base with those delicious cinnamon-sugar veins.

To store, wrap the cheesecake tightly and keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully—just slice, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

Do I need a water bath?

Using a water bath helps prevent cracking and gives the cheesecake a smooth, even bake.

Can I use a different crust?

Absolutely. A cinnamon graham crust or even a crushed cookie base like Biscoff would work wonderfully.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The center should still jiggle slightly. It will firm up as it cools and sets in the fridge.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a deep pie dish, but line it well and expect it to be trickier to serve.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If you love this cinnamon roll twist, you’ll want to try these other irresistible desserts:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swirl extra cinnamon? Maybe add pecans on top? I’d love to hear your spin on it.

You can also find more of my daily recipe shares on Pinterest – Nina Dishes.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 5 hours
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake combines the best of both dessert worlds: a creamy, tangy cheesecake base layered with cinnamon sugar swirls and topped with a cream cheese glaze. Perfect for holidays or whenever you crave something cozy and indulgent.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.

2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and 2 tbsp flour. Set aside.

3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, then eggs one at a time. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and 1/4 cup flour.

4. Pour half the batter into the crust. Sprinkle with half the cinnamon swirl. Swirl gently. Repeat layering and swirl the top.

5. Bake in a water bath for 50–60 minutes. Let cool with oven door ajar for 1 hour, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

6. Whisk powdered sugar, cream cheese, and milk. Drizzle over chilled cheesecake before serving.