Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of a classic cinnamon roll. With a buttery crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a cinnamon-sugar swirl, these bars are the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, they are easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines two beloved desserts into one delicious treat
Simple to prepare with common pantry ingredients
Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts, brunches, or dessert tables
A rich and creamy texture with a warm cinnamon-spiced flavor
Easy to slice and serve, making them great for gatherings

Ingredients

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

Graham cracker crumbs
Butter
Cream cheese
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Brown sugar
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream

Directions

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven and line a baking pan with parchment paper. Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for a few minutes to set.
Make the cheesecake filling: Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
Assemble the bars: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Repeat with the remaining cheesecake batter and cinnamon mixture. Swirl gently with a knife.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Allow to cool completely.
Chill: Refrigerate for several hours or overnight for the best texture.
Make the glaze: Mix powdered sugar with heavy cream until smooth. Drizzle over the chilled cheesecake bars.
Slice and serve: Cut into bars and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: Approximately 5 hours

Variations

Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars: Add a layer of melted chocolate or chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Maple Glaze: Substitute the heavy cream in the glaze with maple syrup for added depth of flavor.
Pumpkin Spice Version: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the cheesecake batter for a fall-inspired treat.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer them slightly warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?

The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. It will set completely as it cools.

Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?

Yes, you can use crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even an Oreo crust.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! They actually taste better after chilling for several hours or overnight.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Overbaking or sudden temperature changes can cause cracks. Cooling the bars slowly in the oven with the door slightly open can help prevent this.

Can I use store-bought cinnamon roll dough instead?

Yes, but the texture will be different. The cheesecake will be baked on top of the dough rather than swirled inside.

Do I need a water bath for this recipe?

No, since this is a bar recipe and not a traditional cheesecake, a water bath is not necessary.

How do I get clean slices when cutting the bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for the neatest slices.

Can I add a layer of frosting instead of glaze?

Yes, a cream cheese frosting would be a delicious alternative.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon mixture?

Use a butter knife or skewer and gently drag it through the batter in a swirling motion for a marbled effect.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and warm cinnamon roll flavors. With a buttery crust, a rich filling, and a sweet cinnamon swirl, they make an excellent dessert or breakfast treat. Easy to make, store, and serve, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy them chilled for a firm texture or slightly warmed for extra comfort.

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Author: Mariem
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 9 bars 1x

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Description

These cinnamon roll cheesecake bars combine creamy cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and a cinnamon swirl for the perfect sweet treat!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tbsp sugar

For the cheesecake filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
Make the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the pan and bake for 8 minutes.
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over the crust.
Swirl the cinnamon: Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drizzle over cheesecake batter and swirl with a knife.