Short Description
Coffee Cake Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: the classic coffee cake and the rich, creamy cheesecake. This indulgent treat features a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, a cinnamon swirl, and a crumbly streusel topping, all drizzled with a sweet glaze. Perfect for brunches, special occasions, or as a comforting dessert, this layered masterpiece offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Dual Delight: Combines the comforting flavors of coffee cake with the creamy richness of cheesecake.

Textural Harmony: Features a crunchy crust, smooth filling, and a crumbly topping.

Flavorful Layers: Each layer is infused with cinnamon and sweetness, creating a balanced taste.

Versatile Serving: Suitable for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for gatherings.

Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

½ cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Streusel Topping:

¾ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

For the Cheesecake Filling:

32 ounces (4 blocks) cream cheese, at room temperature

¾ cup granulated sugar

½ cup sour cream, at room temperature

¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

4 large eggs, at room temperature
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For the Icing:

½ cup powdered sugar

1–2 tablespoons milk

Directions
Prepare the Oven:

Position one oven rack in the center and another at the bottom.

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
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Make the Graham Cracker Crust:

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.

Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Prepare the Streusel Topping:

In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.

Add melted butter and mix with a fork until crumbly. Set aside.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

Add granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.

Mix in sour cream, flour, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.

Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the filling.

Pour the remaining cheesecake filling on top and smooth the surface.

Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cheesecake.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Place a roasting pan filled with hot water on the bottom oven rack to create steam.

Place the cheesecake on the center rack and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.

Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Icing:

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth.

Drizzle the icing over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Servings and Timing
Servings: 12

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Cooling and Chilling Time: 7 hours

Total Time: Approximately 9 hours
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Confessions of a Baking Queen

Variations
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for added crunch.

Fruit Infusion: Incorporate a layer of sliced apples or berries between the cheesecake filling and streusel topping.

Spice Blend: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon swirl.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Mini Cheesecakes: Prepare in muffin tins for individual servings; adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating: Not recommended, as reheating may alter the texture; serve chilled.

FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Do I need to use a water bath for baking?
While not mandatory, using a water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.

Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely. A cookie crust made from digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers can be used as an alternative.

Is it necessary to use full-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor, but reduced-fat versions can be used with slight variations in creaminess.
Julie Marie Eats

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I omit the cocoa powder in the cinnamon swirl?
Yes, the cocoa powder adds depth but can be omitted if preferred.

What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is a suitable substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

How should I slice the cheesecake for clean cuts?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices for clean cuts.

Can I add a fruit topping?
Yes, a fruit compote or fresh berries can be added on top before serving.

Is this cheesecake suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well. Ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion
Coffee Cake Cheesecake is a harmonious blend of two classic desserts, offering layers of flavor and texture that delight the palate. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy.

Coffee Cake Cheesecake

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes