Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake

A decadent dessert that combines two of your favorite treats — cinnamon rolls and cheesecake — into one irresistible dish. The creamy, smooth cheesecake filling is swirled with a cinnamon sugar ribbon and baked on a cinnamon roll crust. Perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving something extra indulgent.


Ingredients:

For the Cinnamon Roll Crust:

  • 1 can of cinnamon rolls (8 rolls, including icing packet)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra richness)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

For the Topping:

  • Icing from the cinnamon roll can (optional, but highly recommended!)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Make the Cinnamon Roll Crust:
    • Open the can of cinnamon rolls and unroll them. Arrange the unrolled cinnamon rolls in the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, overlapping them to cover the entire bottom.
    • Press the dough to fit the pan, and if desired, brush with melted butter for a richer flavor.
    • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
    • Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until combined.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until smooth.
    • Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
  4. Add the Cinnamon Swirl:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
    • Pour the cheesecake filling over the partially baked cinnamon roll crust.
    • Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cheesecake filling. Use a knife or skewer to swirl it through the cheesecake.
  5. Bake the Cheesecake:
    • Bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set (it should still be slightly jiggly). If the top is browning too much, cover with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
    • Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan and allow it to cool completely.
  6. Top and Serve:
    • Drizzle the icing from the cinnamon roll can over the top of the cooled cheesecake.
    • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow it to set properly.
  7. Enjoy!
    Slice and serve chilled for a delightful treat.

Tips:

  • Prevent Cracking: To prevent the cheesecake from cracking, make sure not to overmix the batter, and avoid opening the oven door while it’s baking.
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
  • Customize the Swirl: You can adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar to your preference or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra spice.
  • Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. It actually gets better as it sits!

Nutrition (per slice, assuming 12 servings):

  • Calories: ~380
  • Fat: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 27g
  • Protein: 5g