If you love the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and the rich creaminess of cheesecake, then you are in for a real treat with this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe. This dessert combines the best of both worlds into a luscious, handheld bar that’s perfect for sharing at brunch, parties, or whenever your sweet tooth calls. From the crumbly graham cracker crust to the velvety cheesecake center and that irresistible cinnamon swirl topped with a sweet glaze, every bite feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Get ready to make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds dance with joy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that come together to create a spectacular flavor and texture balance. Each element plays a crucial part—from the crunchy base to the creamy filling and the spiced swirl on top.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a buttery, crisp crust that forms the perfect foundation.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and cheesecake layers for balanced flavor.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust ingredients and adds richness.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the show—offers that smooth, creamy texture cheesecake lovers crave.
- Eggs (room temperature): Help set the cheesecake filling with a silky consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor depth in the cheesecake and glaze.
- Sour cream: Contributes tanginess as well as moisture, keeping the cheesecake luscious.
- Brown sugar (packed): Mixed with cinnamon to create that signature swirl with deeper caramel notes.
- Ground cinnamon: The warm spice element that makes this recipe reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls.
- Powdered sugar: Used to whip up a smooth glaze that crowns the bars just right.
- Milk: Thins out the glaze for a perfect drizzling consistency.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. Mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined creates a buttery base that you press firmly into your pan. Baking it for 8 minutes sets the crust, so it doesn’t get soggy once the cheesecake fills are added.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
Next, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until everything is smooth and creamy. Adding eggs one at a time ensures an even, lump-free batter. Then stir in vanilla and sour cream to introduce that signature tang and silkiness, bringing the cheesecake component to life.
Step 3: Assemble and Add the Cinnamon Swirl
Pour the cheesecake mixture over your cooled crust, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, blend melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon to create a luscious swirl. Drop spoonfuls of this cinnamon mixture on top of the cheesecake layer, then use a knife to gently swirl it through, creating gorgeous ribbons of flavor throughout the bars.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles just slightly—this is key to keeping it creamy. Once out of the oven, allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before chilling for at least 3 hours. This chilling ensures firm, clean slices, making it easy to show off those beautiful cinnamon swirls.
Step 5: Finish with the Glaze
Finally, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a glaze that’s just sweet enough to complement the cinnamon and cream cheese flavors. Drizzle it over the chilled bars before cutting and serving. That shiny, sugary drizzle finishes the whole experience wonderfully.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg over the glaze right before serving. Fresh whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add a beautiful, classic finish greenlighting your bars for a crowd-pleasing dessert presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a delightful brunch option. They also pair fabulously with fresh berries or a light fruit compote, which adds bright contrast to the rich, creamy cheesecake base.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe into small bite-size pieces and arrange them on a dessert platter with a variety of toppings—mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming party favor or gift idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures they stay fresh and moist, ready for a quick sweet fix whenever you need it.
Freezing
If you want to save them for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to preserve their creamy texture and flavor.
Reheating
Enjoy your bars chilled or warmed slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, which brings out the cheesecake’s softness without sacrificing that wonderful cinnamon flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust for this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs are classic and delicious, you can swap in crushed digestive biscuits or even cinnamon-flavored cookies to add a unique twist. Just be sure to adjust the butter slightly if the texture requires it.
What if I don’t have sour cream on hand?
You can substitute sour cream with full-fat Greek yogurt or crème fraîche. Both provide a similar tang and moisture, helping maintain that rich, smooth consistency in the cheesecake filling.
How can I make sure my cheesecake bars don’t crack?
To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing your batter and bake at a moderate temperature. Also, don’t open the oven door frequently during baking—this helps maintain even heat and moisture.
Is it necessary to chill the bars before serving?
Yes, chilling for at least 3 hours helps the cheesecake set properly. This gives you those clean, firm slices and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute with gluten-free cookie crumbs. Just double-check ingredients like vanilla and spices to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe quickly becomes a favorite whenever it appears at the table. Its blend of creamy cheesecake, buttery crust, and sweet cinnamon swirls makes every single bite a little moment of happiness. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dessert or bringing it to a friend’s gathering, these bars are guaranteed to impress any crowd. Don’t wait to try making them yourself—you might just find yourself reaching for the pan time and time again!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet cinnamon swirl on a graham cracker crust. This easy-to-make dessert combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with a rich cheesecake texture, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy treat, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth. Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the crust.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cheesecake layer and use a knife to gently swirl it through the batter.
- Bake the bars: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until fully chilled.
- Make the glaze and serve: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. Drizzle over the chilled bars before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
