Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake is a dessert lover’s dream come true! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, a cinnamon swirl, and a honeybun glaze, it combines multiple beloved desserts into one indulgent treat. Each bite offers a balanced blend of creamy and spiced flavors, making it an unforgettable dessert for family gatherings, holidays, or simply a sweet indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

½ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Honeybun Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and continue beating until fully combined.
- Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Create the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until it forms a thick, spreadable paste.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
- Drizzle or dollop half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter and use a toothpick or knife to swirl it gently into the batter.
- Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top and repeat the swirling process with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
Bake the Cheesecake
- Place the springform pan in the center of the oven. For a water bath effect that prevents cracking, place the pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the dish with about 1 inch of hot water.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Prepare the Honeybun Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed—the glaze should be pourable but not too runny.
Assemble and Serve
- Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Drizzle the honeybun glaze generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a decadent finish.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle with a pinch of ground cinnamon or add crumbled cinnamon roll topping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-12 slices, depending on portion size
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50–60 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour (in oven) + 2 hours (on the counter for full cooling)
Total time: Approximately 3.5 hours (includes cooling time)

Variations

Crust Alternatives: You can substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed vanilla wafers or even a cookie crust for different flavors.
Add Toppings: For extra indulgence, top the cheesecake with whipped cream, cinnamon rolls, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Flavor Infusions: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or cinnamon in the cheesecake filling for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: For a warm slice, microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this cheesecake the day before and store it in the fridge. It actually improves in flavor after chilling overnight.

2. Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! You can use vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even a chocolate cookie crust for a unique twist.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Baking the cheesecake in a water bath and letting it cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks. Avoid opening the oven during baking.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers or any gluten-free cookies for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.

5. What can I substitute for sour cream in the filling?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or heavy cream for a similar creamy texture.

6. Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, though it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

7. How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

To thicken the glaze, add more powdered sugar; to thin it out, add more milk. Adjust to your desired consistency.

8. Can I make mini cheesecakes instead of a whole one?

Yes, you can make individual mini cheesecakes by using a muffin tin or mini springform pans. Adjust baking time as needed (around 25-30 minutes).

9. Can I add more cinnamon to the recipe?

Yes, if you love cinnamon, feel free to add a little more to the cheesecake filling or cinnamon swirl.

10. How long should I let the cheesecake cool?

After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour with the door slightly ajar, then transfer it to the counter and allow it to cool completely.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake is a game-changing dessert that brings together the best flavors in one rich, creamy, and indulgent treat. With its easy-to-follow recipe and decadent taste, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or treating yourself. Enjoy this irresistible dessert, and make sure to share it with loved ones for a memorable experience!