Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes 🧁🍰
Two classic desserts—cheesecake and cinnamon rolls—come together in one incredibly fun and flavorful bite with these Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes. Each one starts with a buttery cinnamon roll base, topped with rich, creamy cinnamon-swirled cheesecake, and finished with a drizzle of icing for the ultimate sweet treat.
They’re easy to prep, super cute to serve, and guaranteed to disappear fast whether you’re hosting brunch, baking for a holiday spread, or just indulging in a cozy weekend project.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve made a lot of cheesecakes in my day—but this one might just be the most fun. Using canned cinnamon rolls as a shortcut crust adds rich flavor and saves time. The creamy filling bakes up perfectly in cupcake liners, and that gooey cinnamon swirl? It tastes like a warm hug.
Plus, they’re pre-portioned and freezer-friendly, which makes them the perfect make-ahead dessert for parties, gifting, or treating yourself on a Tuesday.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing included)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Prepare the Crust
Unroll the cinnamon rolls. Place one in each liner and press gently to form a base that covers the bottom. Set aside any included icing for later.
🧁 Tip: If the rolls are too thick for your tin, gently flatten them with your fingers or a rolling pin.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and cinnamon until fully incorporated.
4. Swirl the Cinnamon
In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Drop small spoonfuls over each cheesecake and use a toothpick to create pretty swirls.
5. Fill and Bake
Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll bases. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the centers are just set and no longer jiggly.
6. Cool and Chill
Allow to cool completely in the tin. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the texture.
7. Drizzle and Serve
Warm the reserved icing slightly (10 seconds in the microwave works great) and drizzle over the chilled cheesecakes. Serve immediately or store for later.
Tips for Success
- Room temperature ingredients help prevent lumpy batter.
- Don’t overbake—pull them when they’re just set to keep that creamy center.
- Use a toothpick for tight, pretty cinnamon swirls without disrupting the cheesecake.
- Chill fully before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Want to freeze? Wrap each cheesecake in plastic wrap once chilled, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These mini cheesecakes are just as welcome at a brunch buffet as they are on the dessert table. Try them with:
- Hot coffee or chai latte
- A bubbly mimosa or fresh juice
- Sides like fruit salad or yogurt parfaits
- Cozy seasonal treats like Pumpkin Spice Muffins
- Sweet snacks like Edible Cookie Dough or Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store covered for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Best enjoyed chilled with a fresh icing drizzle just before eating.
More Sweet Recipes You’ll Love
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – the ultimate indulgence
- Edible Cookie Dough – safe, spoonable, and no bake
- Big Family Banana Pudding – a Southern classic
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins – warm, spiced, and freezer-friendly
- Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups – winter magic in bite-size form
Final Thoughts
These Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are everything you love about a bakery treat—without the wait or the cost. With a buttery cinnamon base, creamy center, and just the right swirl of sugar and spice, they’re guaranteed to win over everyone who takes a bite.
Make a batch, stash a few in the fridge (or freezer!), and let the compliments roll in. 🍰✨
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