There are moments in my kitchen when inspiration strikes from the most unexpected combinations, and that’s exactly how this Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake came to life. I wanted to take everything I love about soft, gooey cinnamon rolls and combine it with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake—and give it that nostalgic twist of a classic honeybun. The result? A stunning, rich dessert that feels familiar, yet completely new.
This recipe is a showstopper. Every layer brings its own texture and flavor—the sweet spiced swirl of cinnamon, the soft tang of cream cheese, and the gentle vanilla glaze that ties it all together. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people pause after the first bite and go, “Wait… what is this magic?”
You’ll love this recipe because it blends the comfort of homemade cinnamon rolls with the sophistication of cheesecake, all in one beautiful slice. It’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, potlucks, or even casual weekends when you want to treat yourself or your loved ones. Whether you serve it chilled or slightly warmed, this cheesecake never disappoints.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
– Decadent yet balanced: The cheesecake layer brings a smooth and creamy texture that balances the sweet cinnamon swirl.
– Comforting: Reminiscent of childhood breakfasts with honeybuns or cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven.
– Perfect for sharing: One cake can easily serve multiple guests, making it a great option for gatherings.
– Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a good cheesecake and cinnamon roll—this brings the best of both in one dish.
Versatile
This dessert is easy to adapt to your tastes. You can add a handful of toasted pecans for crunch, drizzle with cream cheese glaze, or use a graham cracker crust if you’re out of cinnamon roll dough. You can even use low-fat cream cheese for a slightly lighter version, or swirl in a little maple for extra warmth.
Affordable
The ingredients are accessible and budget-friendly. Most of what you need is probably already in your pantry or fridge—cream cheese, sugar, cinnamon, eggs, and vanilla. The base can be made with homemade cinnamon rolls or store-bought dough, giving you flexibility based on time and budget.
Ingredients for the Recipe:
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2 packs (8 oz each) of cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing)
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon
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2 tbsp honey
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
How to Prepare This Recipe
This Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake may look like a bakery masterpiece, but the preparation is surprisingly simple. It’s a quick and easy dessert that doesn’t require complicated techniques. You’ll create layers of cinnamon roll dough, spiced sugar, and a rich cream cheese filling. Once baked, the aroma alone will make everyone run to the kitchen.
Let me walk you through the step-by-step process so you can recreate this dessert perfectly every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare your pan and preheat your oven
First, preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the base with parchment paper. This step ensures easy removal of your cheesecake once it’s cooled.
Step 2: Prepare the cinnamon sugar mix
In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Set this aside—it will be used to create the signature cinnamon swirl layer.
Step 3: Roll out the cinnamon rolls
Open your can of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough. Unroll each roll slightly and press them flat into the base of the pan to form a crust. Press the edges together tightly to cover the bottom completely. You can slightly overlap if needed to ensure full coverage.
Step 4: Create the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and beat until well incorporated. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Pour and swirl
Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the cinnamon roll crust. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mix over the top, then drizzle with 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Repeat with the remaining cheesecake mixture, followed by the remaining cinnamon-sugar, honey, and butter.
Step 6: Swirl the layers
Using a butter knife or a skewer, gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect. Do not overmix—just a few figure-eight movements will do the trick.
Step 7: Bake the cheesecake
Place the cheesecake in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The top should look golden, and the edges should be firm. Let the cheesecake cool in the pan at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
Step 8: Chill
Transfer the cooled cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the cheesecake to set fully and makes slicing easier.
Step 9: Add the icing
Before serving, drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top of the chilled cheesecake. If desired, warm the icing slightly so it spreads more easily. You can also add a touch of extra honey on top for shine.
Step 10: Slice and serve
Slice into generous portions and serve chilled or at room temperature. For a warm version, a quick 10-second microwave reheating works perfectly.
Quick and Easy
This dessert doesn’t demand baking expertise. The steps are straightforward and forgiving. You’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together—from pressing the dough to swirling the filling. No water bath is required, and there’s no need to wait days for flavor development. Once it’s chilled, it’s ready to impress.
Customizable
You can tweak this recipe based on what you have. Want a spiced twist? Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the cinnamon sugar. Prefer a crunchy element? Toss in some toasted pecans or walnuts. You can even swap the honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness. For a less sweet option, reduce the cinnamon-sugar amount by half—it still delivers bold flavor.
Popular With Many People
This recipe is a favorite at family dinners, potlucks, and even birthday celebrations. Both kids and adults love it because it hits the spot for cheesecake fans and cinnamon roll lovers alike. It’s nostalgic, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Once you make it, people will request it again and again.
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Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake – The Ultimate Dessert Mashup!
This Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake brings together the cozy comfort of cinnamon rolls and the creamy indulgence of classic cheesecake. With layers of cinnamon-sugar swirls, a tender dough crust, and a rich filling, this dessert is the perfect fusion of bakery favorites. Easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and unforgettable in flavor.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
Ingredients
- 2 packs (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Create the crust: Open the can of cinnamon roll dough. Flatten each roll slightly and press them into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Press the edges together tightly.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar gradually and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Layer and swirl: Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the cinnamon roll base. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then drizzle with 1 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp melted butter. Repeat with remaining cheesecake mixture, cinnamon-sugar, honey, and butter.
- Swirl gently: Use a knife or skewer to swirl the layers together lightly. Avoid overmixing.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are firm. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Finish with the cinnamon roll icing before serving. Warm the icing slightly for easy drizzling. Slice and enjoy chilled or slightly warmed.
Notes
For a crunchier texture, add chopped pecans or walnuts.
Use maple syrup instead of honey if preferred.
You can use homemade cinnamon roll dough if desired.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 45
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of refrigerated dough?
Yes, you absolutely can. If you have a favorite homemade cinnamon roll recipe, feel free to use it. Just roll it out and press it into the pan as you would with store-bought dough. It may require slightly more baking time depending on thickness.
How do I store this cheesecake?
This cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 5 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen (without the icing) for up to 2 months.
Can I serve it warm?
Yes. While it’s typically served chilled like a classic cheesecake, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This enhances the cinnamon roll flavor and gives the dessert a comforting, gooey texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. There’s no alcohol, and the flavors are familiar and sweet, making it a huge hit with kids. The icing drizzle makes it even more appealing for little ones.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s actually recommended. Chilling overnight gives the cheesecake time to set fully and enhances its flavor. Just wait to drizzle the icing until just before serving for the best presentation.