Indulge in the heavenly fusion of two dessert classics with our irresistible Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cinnamon-sugar infused cheesecake filling, and a decadent swirl of tangy cream cheese frosting. Prepare to be amazed by this delightful treat that captures all the comforting flavors of your favorite cinnamon rolls in a rich, creamy cheesecake form.

Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes: A Dream Dessert Come True

There’s something inherently comforting and utterly delicious about a freshly baked cinnamon roll. That iconic combination of warm, spiced cinnamon-sugar and rich, tangy cream cheese frosting is simply unparalleled. It’s a flavor profile that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and pure bliss.

We’ve channeled these beloved flavors into a variety of delightful confections before, from cinnamon roll cookies and popcorn to a luscious cinnamon roll skillet cake. Yet, the challenge remained: how to encapsulate that magic into a cheesecake? After countless batches of testing, tweaking, and tasting, we’ve finally perfected the recipe for these exquisite mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes!

These individual cheesecakes are truly a revelation. Each one is a creamy, sweet masterpiece, bursting with that unmistakable cinnamon-sugar goodness. They are incredibly satisfying, perfectly portioned, and an absolute joy to share (or keep all to yourself!). We’re confident that once you try them, they’ll become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire. Get ready to fall in love with these delightful mini treats!

Why These Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes Are a Must-Bake

Beyond their captivating flavor, these mini cheesecakes offer several advantages that make them the perfect dessert for any occasion:

• Perfect Portions: No need for slicing! Each cheesecake is individually sized, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply controlling your sweet cravings.
• Irresistible Flavor Fusion: They combine the best elements of a classic cinnamon roll with the smooth, rich texture of a cheesecake, creating a truly unique and memorable dessert experience.
• Visually Stunning: The beautiful cinnamon-sugar swirl and elegant cream cheese frosting make these cheesecakes look as good as they taste, sure to impress any guest.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these cheesecakes in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh, perfectly chilled treats without last-minute stress.
• Versatile for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, they make fantastic homemade gifts for friends, family, or neighbors.

Essential Ingredients for Your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes

While this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake recipe features a few more components than our simpler mini vanilla cheesecakes, the extraordinary cinnamon roll flavor achieved is absolutely worth the effort! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the layers of taste and texture that make these cheesecakes so special. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• For the Buttery Crust: This foundational layer provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
  • Graham Crackers: Crushed finely, they form the signature crumbly texture. Ensure they are well-processed for a uniform, firm base.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of molasses-rich sweetness that complements the cinnamon roll theme beautifully.
  • Unsalted Butter (melted): Binds the crumbs together, creating a sturdy and flavorful crust. Make sure it’s melted for easy mixing.

  Pro Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, you can lightly toast the graham cracker crumbs before mixing with butter and sugar.

• For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling: The heart of our dessert, this filling is smooth, rich, and infused with subtle spice.
  • Cream Cheese (full-fat, at room temperature): The star of any cheesecake! Using full-fat cream cheese is crucial for that classic rich, creamy texture. Room temperature is non-negotiable for a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides the perfect level of sweetness, balancing the tang of the cream cheese.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic depth. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
  • All-Purpose Flour: A small amount helps stabilize the cheesecake, preventing cracks and ensuring a smooth, dense texture. It acts as a gentle binder.
  • Large Egg (at room temperature): Binds the ingredients together and adds to the cheesecake’s rich texture. Just like cream cheese, a room-temperature egg incorporates more evenly into the batter, preventing curdling and lumps.

  Pro Tip: Gently tap your cream cheese and egg on the counter a few times before unwrapping to help them come to room temperature faster.

• For the Signature Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl: This is where the “cinnamon roll” magic truly comes alive within the cheesecake.
  • Unsalted Butter (softened, not melted): Essential for creating a thick, spreadable paste. If melted, the swirl mixture will be too runny and won’t hold its shape or create distinct layers.
  • Light Brown Sugar (packed): Adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the swirl, enhancing the cinnamon flavor.
  • Ground Cinnamon: The star spice! Use fresh, high-quality cinnamon for the most aromatic and potent flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour (a little): Helps thicken the swirl mixture, ensuring it stays suspended in the cheesecake batter and creates beautiful, defined swirls.

  Pro Tip: Use a small piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off for precise and effortless swirling.

• For the Decadent Cream Cheese Topping: The luscious crown jewel that ties all the flavors together, just like a classic cinnamon roll.
  • Powdered Sugar (confectioners’ sugar): Dissolves easily to create a smooth, sweet frosting without a grainy texture. Sifting can prevent lumps.
  • Unsalted Butter (at room temperature): Contributes to the richness and smooth consistency of the frosting.
  • Cream Cheese (full-fat, at room temperature): Provides the signature tangy flavor and creamy texture of traditional cream cheese frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: A must-have for enhancing the sweetness and rounding out the flavor profile of the frosting.
  • Heavy Cream or Whole Milk (optional, as needed): Used to adjust the frosting’s consistency to your desired thickness. Start with a small amount and add gradually.

  Pro Tip: If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thick, slowly add more cream or milk.

Expert Tips for Flawless Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes

Crafting the perfect cheesecake can seem daunting, but with these pro tips, you’ll achieve bakery-worthy results every time. These insights will help you prevent common pitfalls and ensure your mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes are absolutely divine:

1. Line and Spray Your Muffin Pan Generously: This step is absolutely crucial for easy removal. Even with liners, the cinnamon-sugar swirl can be quite sticky. Use high-quality paper or silicone cupcake liners, and then spray the inside of each liner generously with non-stick cooking spray. This double protection ensures your beautiful cheesecakes release effortlessly without tearing.
2. Embrace Room Temperature Ingredients: This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a golden rule for cheesecake success! Using room temperature cream cheese and eggs ensures that all ingredients mix together smoothly and evenly. Cold ingredients won’t emulsify properly, leading to a lumpy batter and potentially overmixing, which introduces too much air and can cause cracks during baking.
3. Mix Slowly and Gently to Prevent Cracks: Overmixing is the enemy of a smooth, crack-free cheesecake. Use an electric mixer on the lowest speed possible and mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Vigorously beating the batter incorporates excessive air bubbles, which expand during baking and then collapse upon cooling, leading to unsightly cracks on the surface.
4. Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture with a Light Hand: The cinnamon-sugar swirl adds both flavor and visual appeal. After piping your swirl mixture, use a toothpick to gently create delicate patterns. Avoid aggressive swirling, as this can fully incorporate the cinnamon mixture into the batter, losing the distinct swirl effect. A light touch creates beautiful marbling.
5. Avoid Overbaking at All Costs: Overbaking is a primary cause of dry, cracked cheesecakes. Bake until the edges are just set, and the centers still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. The residual heat will continue to cook the cheesecake as it cools. An internal temperature of around 150-155°F (65-68°C) is typically ideal for the center.
6. Cool Slowly and Gradually for a Perfect Finish: Sudden temperature changes are a cheesecake’s worst nightmare, often leading to cracks. Once baked, turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and let the cheesecakes cool inside for about 30 minutes. Then, remove them to a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature before chilling them in the refrigerator. This gradual cooling process minimizes temperature shock.

Additional Baking and Serving Insights

To ensure your cinnamon roll cheesecakes are truly spectacular from start to finish, keep these extra pointers in mind:

• Do Not Overfill Your Liners: Leave a little room at the top of each cupcake liner, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This prevents the cheesecake batter from overflowing during baking and ensures a neat, professional appearance.
• Loosen with a Knife Before Removal: Even with liners and cooking spray, the sticky cinnamon-sugar swirl can sometimes cause the cheesecakes to adhere to the muffin pan. Once cooled, gently run a thin knife around the edges of each liner before lifting the cheesecakes out. This ensures clean removal.
• Serve Chilled for Optimal Flavor and Texture: Cheesecakes are best enjoyed cold! Chilling not only sets the texture, making them firm and creamy, but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve them directly from the refrigerator for the best experience.
• Invest in a Quality Muffin Pan: A good quality standard-size muffin pan with 12 cavities (even if you only use 8) will ensure even heat distribution and consistent baking results. A sturdy pan makes a noticeable difference.
• Water Bath for Even Baking (Optional but Recommended): While we suggest filling empty cavities with water, for ultimate creaminess and crack prevention, you can opt for a full water bath. Wrap the bottom of your muffin pan in foil, place it in a larger roasting pan, and fill the roasting pan with hot water up to halfway around the muffin pan. This creates a moist baking environment.

Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

These mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes are delightful on their own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:

• With a Warm Beverage: Pair them with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a steaming latte, or a comforting chai tea for the ultimate cozy treat.
• Fresh Fruit Medley: Serve alongside a light fruit salad featuring berries or sliced peaches to add a refreshing counterpoint.
• Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of warm caramel sauce before serving can add another layer of rich sweetness.
• Nutty Topping: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added texture and a nutty flavor.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the recipe your own:

• Different Crusts: Instead of graham crackers, try crushed Biscoff cookies or vanilla wafers for a unique crust flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar swirl for a more complex spice profile.
• Chocolate Swirl: For chocolate lovers, melt a little dark chocolate and swirl it into the cheesecake batter alongside the cinnamon mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We’ve gathered some common questions you might have when making these delicious mini cheesecakes:

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

  While technically possible, we highly recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best results. Low-fat versions can lead to a less creamy texture and may affect the cheesecake’s stability. For a truly rich and indulgent cheesecake, full-fat is the way to go.

• Why did my cheesecake crack?

  Cheesecake cracks are often caused by overbaking, overmixing (incorporating too much air), or drastic temperature changes during cooling. Follow our tips on gentle mixing, not overbaking (look for the slight jiggle), and slow, gradual cooling to minimize cracks.

• Can I make these in a full-size springform pan?

  This recipe is specifically developed for mini cheesecakes in a muffin pan. Scaling it up to a full-size springform pan would require significant adjustments to baking time, temperature, and potentially ingredient quantities to ensure proper setting and prevent cracking. We recommend sticking to the mini version for guaranteed success with this recipe.

• How long do I need to chill the cheesecakes?

  Chilling is crucial! We recommend a minimum of 2 hours, but for the best texture, flavor, and stability, chilling them overnight (at least 8 hours) is ideal. This allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to deepen.

• Can I freeze the cheesecakes with the frosting on?

  While you can freeze them with frosting, it’s generally best to freeze the plain cheesecakes and add the frosting after thawing. Frosting can sometimes change texture slightly when frozen and thawed, becoming a bit watery or gritty. If you do freeze them frosted, ensure they are well-wrapped to protect the frosting.

More Delicious Dessert Recipes to Explore

If you loved these cinnamon roll cheesecakes, be sure to explore some of our other fantastic dessert creations:

• Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls: A quick and easy shortcut to delicious cinnamon rolls!
• Mini Oreo Cheesecakes: Indulgent mini cheesecakes featuring a delightful chocolate Oreo crust.
• Cheesecake in a Jar: Perfect no-bake treats that are simple, portable, and utterly delicious.
• Lemon Cheesecake Cookies: Zesty cookies bursting with cheesecake flavor and topped with a bright lemon glaze.
• Berry Cheesecake Salad: A refreshing and creamy fruit salad featuring fresh strawberries and a luscious cheesecake-inspired dressing.

Pin Recipe

Rated 4.85 from 20 votes

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes

By

Chelsea Lords

Miniature cinnamon roll cheesecakes with a delicious cinnamon swirl and cream cheese frosting topping.

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cook Time:

22 minutes

Chilling Time:

3 hours

Total Time:

3 hours
52 minutes

Servings:

8 cheesecakes

Equipment

• Muffin pan (standard-size, not miniature)
• Cupcake liners
• Food processor (or small blender)

Ingredients

Crust

• 4 full graham cracker sheets
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Cheesecake

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)

Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened, not melted)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon flour

Cream Cheese Topping

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 1 up to 1-1/2 tablespoons heavy cream (or whole milk, only if needed)

Instructions

Crust Preparation

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 8 cavities of a 12-cavity muffin pan with cupcake liners. For even baking and to create a humid environment, fill the empty cavities halfway with water. Generously spray the insides of the lined cavities with cooking spray; these cheesecakes can be sticky!
• In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until finely ground into crumbs. Transfer crumbs to a medium bowl and mix them thoroughly with the light brown sugar and melted unsalted butter until well combined. Divide this crust mixture evenly among the 8 prepared liners. Use the back of a spoon or a small milk cap to firmly press the mixture down into an even layer. Set the prepared crusts aside.

Cheesecake Filling Assembly

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar. Using electric hand mixers on the lowest speed, gently mix in one direction until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Be careful to avoid vigorous mixing, which can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks in your cheesecakes. Next, add the vanilla extract, flour, and the room-temperature egg. Continue mixing gently on low speed until all ingredients are just combined. Stop mixing as soon as no dry streaks remain to prevent overmixing.

Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl and Baking

• In a separate small bowl, combine the softened (not melted) unsalted butter, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and the teaspoon of flour. Mix well until a thick, spreadable paste forms. Transfer this cinnamon-sugar mixture into a piping bag or a small plastic bag with one corner snipped off.
• Divide half of the cheesecake batter evenly among the 8 prepared liners, filling them approximately halfway. Next, pipe half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture in concentric circles on top of the cheesecake batter. Using a toothpick, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create a marbled effect. Then, spoon the remaining cheesecake batter evenly on top of the swirled layer. Pipe the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top and swirl again with a clean toothpick.
• Bake for 20–27 minutes. The cheesecakes are done when the edges appear lightly golden and set, but the centers still have a slight jiggle when the pan is gently shaken. Immediately turn off the oven, open the oven door a few inches, and pull out the oven rack with the cheesecakes. Let them cool on the rack inside the slightly open oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack on the counter to cool completely to room temperature (another 30 minutes to an hour). Finally, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, for best results.

Cream Cheese Topping Preparation

• Using electric hand mixers, beat together the powdered sugar, room-temperature butter, vanilla extract, and room-temperature cream cheese in a medium bowl until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If you desire a thinner, more पाइपable topping consistency, gradually add heavy cream (or whole milk), 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until your preferred thickness is achieved.
• Once the cheesecakes are fully chilled and ready to serve, transfer the prepared cream cheese frosting to a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip (a star tip works beautifully). Pipe a generous swirl of frosting on top of each cheesecake.

Recipe Notes

Storage: Store finished cheesecakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, see our freezer tips above.

Nutrition Facts

Serving:
1serving

|

Calories:
405kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
43.8g

|

Protein:
3.8g

|

Fat:
24.7g

|

Cholesterol:
89.6mg

|

Sodium:
159.9mg

|

Fiber:
0.5g

|

Sugar:
38g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

Enjoy these delightful mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes!

Got questions or made this recipe? Leave a comment below! We’d love to hear from you.