Cinnamon Bun Cheesecake with Caramel Pecan Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible fusion of a classic Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake with the nutty sweetness of Pecan Praline Cheesecake. This dessert is rich, creamy, and bursting with cinnamon-spiced goodness, making it the ultimate treat for cheesecake lovers.

Pure Comfort

Imagine a smooth, velvety cheesecake infused with swirls of cinnamon sugar, nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust, and topped with a luscious caramel pecan glaze. Every bite is pure decadencecomfort food at its finest.

Ingredients

What You Need

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (180 grams) or digestive biscuits
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (55 grams)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (85 grams)

Cinnamon Roll Swirl

• 1 cup brown sugar (220 grams)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (39 grams)
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (76 grams)

Cheesecake Batter

• 907 grams cream cheese, softened (4 packages of 8 oz.)
• 1 cup brown sugar (220 grams)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (120 grams)
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 6 tbsp cream cheese (85 grams)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (125 grams)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240 ml)
• 1-2 tsp cinnamon powder

Time to Cook

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes + chilling time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Steps to Make It

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
• Add the melted butter and stir until well combined.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
• Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cinnamon Roll Swirl

• Combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl.
• Stir in the melted butter until a thick paste forms.
• Set aside for swirling into the cheesecake batter.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Batter

• Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
• Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
• Blend in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake

• Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust.
• Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter and gently swirl with a knife.
• Add the remaining cheesecake batter, followed by the rest of the cinnamon swirl. Swirl again for a marbled effect.

5. Bake the Cheesecake

• Place the springform pan in a water bath to prevent cracking.
• Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 60-70 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
• Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool for an hour.
• Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

• Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
• Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
• Stir in cinnamon powder.

7. Decorate and Serve

• Spread the frosting over the chilled cheesecake.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle chopped pecans for an extra indulgent touch.
• Slice and enjoy!

Make It Perfect

• Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth cheesecake batter.
• Avoid overmixing the eggs to prevent cracking.
• Let the cheesecake cool gradually to maintain a creamy texture.

Mix It Up

• Swap graham crackers for Biscoff cookies for an extra caramelized crust.
• Use maple syrup instead of caramel for a fall-inspired twist.
• Add a touch of nutmeg for even more warm spice flavor.

Perfect Partners

• Warm Apple Compote: Complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
• Whipped Coffee: A light and creamy contrast to the rich cheesecake.
• Toasted Pecans: Add an extra crunch to every bite.

Busy Day Hero

This cheesecake can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a great dessert for special occasions without the last-minute hassle.

Work Ahead

• Prepare the crust and cinnamon swirl the night before.
• Make the cheesecake batter ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Save Some For Later

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

Everyone’s Happy

From holiday gatherings to casual weekend treats, this Cinnamon Bun Cheesecake is a guaranteed hit with family and friends.

Good For You Too

While indulgent, this cheesecake also provides calcium-rich dairy and nutrient-packed pecans, offering a delicious balance of flavor and texture.

Easy Clean-Up

• Line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Use a water bath to prevent cracking and avoid messy spills.
• Let your cheesecake set before slicing for a clean cut every time.

Switch It Up

• Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free graham cracker alternative.
• Add a pumpkin spice swirl for a festive variation.
• Try a chocolate crust for a delicious contrast.

Simply Perfect

This Cinnamon Bun Cheesecake with Caramel Pecan Delight is the perfect balance of creamy, spiced, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a cinnamon roll enthusiast, this dessert is a must-try!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! A Biscoff cookie crust or an Oreo crust would add a fun twist.

2. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Using a water bath and allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks.

3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best made a day in advance and chilled overnight for the best texture.

4. What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a deep cake pan lined with parchment, but a springform pan makes removal much easier.

5. Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

6. How do I get a clean slice?

Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wipe between cuts.

7. Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes! You can swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Bun Cheesecake with Caramel Pecan Delight is the ultimate indulgence, combining the best elements of cinnamon rolls, pecan praline, and creamy cheesecake into one irresistible dessert. Make it for your next gathering and watch it disappear!