Description

If you’re looking to combine the best of two dessert worlds—cheesecake and cinnamon rolls—this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the perfect recipe. With a buttery vanilla wafer crust, creamy cinnamon-infused cheesecake filling, and a rich cinnamon swirl throughout, this dessert is as indulgent as it gets. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Follow these detailed steps to create this show-stopping dessert

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups (201g) vanilla wafer crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs)
• ¼ cup (52g) sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 5 tbsp (70g) butter, melted
• For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup (207g) sugar
• 3 tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (230g) sour cream
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• For the Cinnamon Filling:
• 1 ¼ cups (281g) packed light brown sugar
• 5 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup (98g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (112g) unsalted butter, melted
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, room temperature
• 6 tbsp (84g) butter, room temperature
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (173g) powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for consistency)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides of the pan. This will make it easier to remove the cheesecake later and ensure a smooth finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until all the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared springform pan. This forms the base of your cheesecake and adds a delightful crunch. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Lower the Oven Temperature
After the crust is baked, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (148°C). This lower temperature is key for baking the cheesecake gently, resulting in a smooth, crack-free top.

Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese, sugar, and flour until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The flour helps stabilize the cheesecake, ensuring it holds its shape when sliced. Next, add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until everything is well combined. The sour cream adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of the cheesecake. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air into the batter, leading to cracks during baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
In another bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and forms a thick, smooth paste. This cinnamon filling is what gives the cheesecake its signature cinnamon roll flavor.

Step 6: Layer the Cheesecake
Now it’s time to layer the cheesecake. Start by sprinkling a quarter of the cinnamon filling over the bottom of the cooled crust. Then, spread a third of the cheesecake filling evenly over the top. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with the remaining cinnamon filling sprinkled on top. The layering creates beautiful swirls of cinnamon throughout the cheesecake, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.

Step 7: Bake in a Water Bath
Place the springform pan inside a larger pan, such as a roasting pan. Fill the outside pan with warm water, so it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath method helps bake the cheesecake evenly and prevents cracks by maintaining a moist environment. Bake the cheesecake for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 8: Cool the Cheesecake
Once the baking time is up, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for 30 minutes. This allows the cheesecake to cool gradually, reducing the risk of cracks. After 30 minutes, crack the oven door open and leave the cheesecake to cool for another 30 minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, remove the cheesecake from the oven and the water bath. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 4-5 hours or overnight to set fully.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency. This frosting adds a deliciously sweet and tangy finish to the cheesecake.

Step 10: Frost and Serve
Once the cheesecake has chilled and set, remove it from the springform pan. Pipe the cream cheese frosting in a spiral pattern over the top of the cheesecake for a decorative touch. You can also spread the frosting over the entire top if you prefer. Store the cheesecake in the fridge until ready to serve

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips
Add a Nutty Crunch: Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Enhance the Cinnamon Flavor: For an even deeper cinnamon flavor, use Ceylon cinnamon, which is known for its mild, sweet taste.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon filling for a warm, spicy twist that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Garnish with Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake just before serving for a decadent finish.
Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. The flavors only get better with time as they meld together.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the ultimate fusion of two beloved desserts, offering the best of both worlds in one decadent treat. With its buttery crust, creamy cinnamon-swirled cheesecake filling, and rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or simply when you want to indulge, this cheesecake is as delicious as it is beautiful. Serve it chilled and enjoy the layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of cheesecake, cinnamon rolls, or both, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!