Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars

These Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert mashup, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon rolls. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, and a gooey cinnamon swirl topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion—or just because!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Two Desserts in One: The best of both worlds—cheesecake and cinnamon rolls in every bite.
• Easy to Make: Simple layers and minimal equipment make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to be dairy-free or vegan with simple swaps.

 Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs 🍪
• ½ cup unsalted butter , melted 🧈
• ¼ cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese , softened (dairy-free version optional ) 🧀
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 large eggs (or ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option ) 🥚
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter , melted 🧈
• ¼ cup brown sugar , packed 🍯
• 1 tbsp cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk (almond or oat milk for dairy-free )
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare 🔥

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) .
2. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust 🍪

1. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs , melted butter , and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes , then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling 🧀

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs (or applesauce ) and vanilla extract , mixing until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid air bubbles.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Swirl 🌿

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter , brown sugar , and cinnamon . Stir until the mixture forms a thick, sticky paste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars 🥄

1. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust.
2. Drizzle the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top of the cheesecake filling.
3. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake the Bars 🍳

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquidy.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature.

Step 7: Make the Glaze 🎨

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar , milk , and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk as needed to achieve a drizzleable consistency.

Step 8: Finish and Serve 🍴

1. Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.
2. Let the glaze set for about 10–15 minutes before slicing into squares.
3. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into even portions.

Tips for Success:

• Add Texture: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the crust for added crunch.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days .
• Freeze Option: Freeze the bars (without glaze) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator and add glaze before serving.

Nutritional Information (per bar, makes 16):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~28g
• Fat: ~12g

Enjoy these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars as a decadent, comforting treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Their creamy cheesecake layer, spiced cinnamon swirl, and buttery crust make them impossible to resist. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or gifting, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!