Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you love the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then you are absolutely going to adore these Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars. This delightful mashup brings together soft, buttery cinnamon roll pieces swirled into a luscious cheesecake filling, then baked to golden perfection and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast treat or a show-stopping dessert, these bars combine the best of both worlds in every bite, delivering rich flavor and irresistible texture that will quickly become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list fool you—these ingredients are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of gooey, creamy, and cinnamony deliciousness.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (12 rolls each): The base that provides that signature soft, cinnamon-sugar swirl and buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized coating on the cinnamon roll bits.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: For that warm, spicy kick that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: Binds everything together with richness and gives a lovely golden finish.
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake filling, delivering that smooth, velvety texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling flawlessly.
- 2 large eggs: Help set the cheesecake while keeping it tender and creamy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Brings a subtle tang and moistness to the cheesecake.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the topping glaze, offering a smooth sweetness with a delicate texture.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Thins out the glaze to just the right consistency for drizzling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Incorporated into the glaze to keep the vanilla flavor consistent throughout.
How to Make Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper—this ensures your Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars will come out cleanly and look as beautiful as they taste.
Step 2: Cut and Coat the Cinnamon Rolls
Open up your cans of cinnamon rolls and separate each roll. Chop them into quarters, then toss these bite-sized pieces in a mixture of melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. This step is where those cinnamon rolls transform into little pockets of caramelized gooeyness that perfectly complement the cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Form the Base Layer
Spread half of the coated cinnamon roll pieces evenly into the bottom of your baking dish. This is going to act like a soft, buttery crust that soaks up all the flavors and juices from the cheesecake, giving the bars their signature ooey-gooey texture.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat your softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time to help the mixture set without cracking during baking. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream, creating a rich, smooth filling that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
Step 5: Layer and Top
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cinnamon roll base, smoothing it out with a spatula. Then scatter the remaining cinnamon roll pieces over the top, creating a rustic, inviting look and infusing more cinnamon flavor throughout.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Pop your creation into the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’re looking for a cheesecake that’s set but still a little soft in the center, with cinnamon roll pieces that are golden brown and caramelized on top—a heavenly combination that’s a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.
Step 7: Prepare and Drizzle the Icing
While the bars bake, whip up the icing by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and perfect for drizzling. Adjust the milk quantity to get a pourable but thick glaze. As soon as the bars come out of the oven and have cooled slightly, drizzle this sweet topping all over for that final luscious touch.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Allow your Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. This helps them set up nicely so when you slice them into squares, each piece holds together beautifully while still delivering that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
How to Serve Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
These bars are stunning on their own, but adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of extra cinnamon can elevate their visual appeal and add a pleasant crunch. For a touch of luxury, top with a dollop of whipped cream or even a delicate drizzle of caramel sauce.
Side Dishes
For a truly decadent breakfast or brunch spread, serve these cinnamon roll cheesecake bars alongside a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea. A side of fresh berries or a bowl of creamy yogurt can balance the richness with a pop of freshness and tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your bars in individual clear glass jars layered with whipped cream and berry compote for a charming, portable treat. Or place them on a large wooden cheese board accompanied by an assortment of nuts, fresh fruit, and a honey drizzle to impress your guests with both flavor and style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Storing them chilled helps maintain the creamy cheesecake texture while keeping the cinnamon rolls soft yet firm.
Freezing
Want to enjoy these bars later? Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months without losing their signature ooey-gooey texture. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
For that fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm your bars in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Heating brings back that melty cream cheese filling and makes the cinnamon rolls delightfully soft again.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Using homemade cinnamon rolls can add a personal touch and allow you to control the cinnamon sugar filling, but make sure they are slightly underbaked before cutting and layering to maintain that perfect texture.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese beforehand?
Yes, softening the cream cheese is crucial for creating a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or soften it gently in the microwave in short bursts.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
With some tweaks, like using vegan cream cheese, non-dairy milk, and egg substitutes, you can adapt the recipe. However, texture and flavor might vary slightly, so it’s a great opportunity to experiment with your favorite dairy-free products.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The cheesecake should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you gently shake the pan. The top cinnamon rolls should be golden brown. Overbaking can dry out the cheesecake, so keep a close eye near the end of the baking time.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free cinnamon rolls or making your own gluten-free dough, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just be sure your other ingredients, like vanilla extract and baking preparations, are also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and indulgent about dessert that feels like a warm hug, and these Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars deliver just that. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, the rich cream cheese filling combined with soft cinnamon roll pieces and a sweet glaze creates a magical flavor experience. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it’s your new go-to treat that everyone is asking for!
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Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these ooey-gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars that combine soft, spiced cinnamon rolls with a rich and creamy cheesecake filling. This dessert is a perfect blend of melty cinnamon-sugar goodness and smooth cheesecake layered in convenient bars, ideal for any occasion or sweet craving.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Layer
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (12 rolls each)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and/or line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and separate the rolls. Cut each roll into quarters and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Coat Cinnamon Roll Pieces: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the cinnamon roll pieces, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Toss gently until all pieces are well coated.
- Form Base Layer: Spread half of the coated cinnamon roll pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the base layer.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
- Layer Cheesecake Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the base layer of cinnamon rolls in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a smooth surface.
- Add Top Cinnamon Roll Layer: Scatter the remaining cinnamon roll pieces evenly over the cheesecake layer to top the bars.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the cinnamon rolls turn golden brown.
- Prepare Icing: While the bars bake, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
- Cool and Drizzle Icing: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Drizzle the prepared icing over the bars while still warm.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy these rich, creamy, and cinnamon-spiced bars.
Notes
- For easier cutting, chill the bars slightly after cooling to help the cheesecake set firmer.
- You can substitute full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the best creamy texture.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the cinnamon in the sugar mixture.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll, cheesecake bars, cinnamon roll cheesecake, dessert bars, easy cheesecake, cinnamon dessert, baked cinnamon rolls
