Cinnamon rolls and cheesecake are two indulgent desserts that are loved by many, but what happens when you combine them into one amazing creation? You get the ultimate dessert—Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake! This fusion of flavors and textures brings the sweet, spicy warmth of cinnamon rolls together with the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake. Whether you're hosting a special gathering or just want to impress your family with an unforgettable treat, this recipe will be a huge hit. Read on to discover everything you need to know to make this decadent dessert, from the ingredients list to the best tips for serving it perfectly!
What is Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake?
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is a unique dessert that marries the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. The base of the dessert is often made from cinnamon roll dough or a graham cracker crust infused with cinnamon, while the cheesecake layer features a traditional cream cheese mixture. Swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling are incorporated into the cheesecake, giving it that signature warm, spiced flavor you love in cinnamon rolls. To top it off, the cheesecake is often drizzled with cream cheese icing, bringing everything full circle.
Ingredients List for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
To get started, you'll need a variety of ingredients for both the cinnamon roll base and the cheesecake filling. Here's what you'll need:
For the Cinnamon Roll Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ tsp)
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (for thinning)
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to try something different, here are some possible substitutions and variations:
- For the Cinnamon Roll Base: Instead of making the dough from scratch, you can use refrigerated cinnamon roll dough for a quicker preparation. Store-bought dough works just as well and saves time!
- For the Cream Cheese: You can substitute the full-fat cream cheese with reduced-fat versions, but be aware that it may affect the richness and texture of the cheesecake. Alternatively, mascarpone cheese can be used for a slightly different, but equally delicious flavor.
- For the Sour Cream: If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute in the cheesecake filling. It provides a similar tangy flavor with a bit more protein.
- Add Nuts or Raisins: For added texture and flavor, you can mix chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, or even raisins into the cinnamon-sugar filling.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake. This recipe does require a bit of time and patience, but the results are absolutely worth it.
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Dough
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Set aside for later use when layering the cheesecake.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Roll out the risen cinnamon roll dough into a large rectangle (about 12x8 inches).
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut it into small rounds (like traditional cinnamon rolls).
- Place the cinnamon roll rounds in the bottom of a greased springform pan, pressing them down slightly to create an even layer.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cinnamon roll layer.
- Use a knife or toothpick to swirl some extra cinnamon-sugar filling into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- After the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Icing
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve your desired consistency.
How to Cook Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake involves combining several key elements—cinnamon roll dough, cheesecake filling, and a delightful icing. This step-by-step guide ensures you create a seamless, flavorful dessert. First, you prepare a soft cinnamon roll base that adds a tender, spiced layer to your cheesecake. Then, you’ll whip up a classic cream cheese-based cheesecake filling to pour on top. After layering the dough and filling, you’ll bake and chill the cheesecake to perfection. Finish it all off with a decadent cream cheese icing, and you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the cheesecake batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air into the batter, causing the cheesecake to crack during baking.
- Not allowing the dough to rise properly: Skipping or rushing the dough rising process can result in a dense, tough base.
- Opening the oven door too often: Avoid frequently checking on the cheesecake during baking, as this can cause it to sink or crack.
- Not chilling long enough: Cheesecake needs time to set, so don’t rush the chilling process. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when serving your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake. After all, you’ve put in all that effort to make this dessert, so it’s worth showing it off!
- Drizzle the cream cheese icing generously: A good, thick drizzle of icing over the top adds sweetness and visual appeal.
- Add a dusting of cinnamon: For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon over the top of the cheesecake just before serving.
- Use a serrated knife: When slicing the cheesecake, use a serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure neat, clean slices.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake can be served as is, or with some additional toppings to make it even more decadent. Here are some ideas:
- Top with fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a burst of color and acidity that complements the rich cheesecake.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream: A light and airy topping like whipped cream adds a contrasting texture.
- Warm it up slightly: If you prefer your cheesecake warm, gently heat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Presentation Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
To make your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake look as good as it tastes, here are a few presentation ideas:
- Layered Cake Stand: Serve your cheesecake on a tiered cake stand to elevate its appearance (literally and figuratively).
- Decorate with Whole Cinnamon Sticks: Place a few whole cinnamon sticks on the top of the cheesecake or around the platter for a rustic touch.
- Swirl Extra Icing in a Pattern: Use a piping bag to swirl extra icing in a decorative pattern on top of the cheesecake.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure all your cheesecake ingredients (cream cheese, eggs, sour cream) are at room temperature for the smoothest batter.
- Prevent cracking: After baking, let the cheesecake cool gradually to avoid temperature shock, which can cause cracks.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake?
A: Yes, you can! After it has chilled in the fridge, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Q: Can I make the cheesecake in advance?
A: Absolutely. In fact, this dessert is best made a day in advance to give it ample time to chill and set in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought cinnamon roll dough works great for the base of this cheesecake.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
A: Avoid overmixing the batter, bake the cheesecake in a water bath, and let it cool slowly in the oven before refrigerating.
Conclusion
There you have it—an irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake recipe that’s sure to impress. With its rich, creamy layers of cheesecake and spiced cinnamon roll dough, all topped with a luscious cream cheese icing, this dessert is a true showstopper. Whether for a holiday gathering or just a treat for yourself, it’s a dessert that you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy this decadent dessert!
PrintCinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake recipe blends the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon rolls. Featuring a cinnamon swirl and cream cheese frosting, this dessert is the perfect fusion of two classic treats. Make this delicious cheesecake for holidays, special events, or when you crave something indulgent.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours (including cooling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Crust: Graham crackers, melted butter, sugar
- For the Cheesecake: Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract
- For the Cinnamon Swirl: Brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter
- For the Frosting: Cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare a springform pan with a graham cracker crust.
- Mix cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla for the cheesecake filling.
- Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for the cinnamon swirl.
- Pour half the cheesecake batter over the crust, swirl with cinnamon mixture, and repeat.
- Bake until set, let cool, and refrigerate.
- Prepare cream cheese frosting and top the chilled cheesecake.
Notes
For a deeper cinnamon flavor, add extra cinnamon to the swirl. You can also use a water bath during baking to avoid cracks in the cheesecake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 320mg
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