Introduction

These Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes combine the best of both desserts—creamy cheesecake with a sweet cinnamon swirl and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfectly sized for sharing or indulging on your own, they make an impressive treat for any occasion.

The image shows six small round desserts, each with three distinct layers. The bottom layer is a crumbly, brown crust with a rough texture. The middle layer is a smooth, creamy white filling that looks soft and thick. The top layer is a swirl of brown cinnamon or cocoa powder-dusted cream, shaped like a rose with fine specks giving it a textured look. All desserts are placed on a white plate set on a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive cookies)
¼ cup sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup brown sugar
2 tsp cinnamon
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream (optional)
Dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Press about 2 tablespoons of this mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove and let cool.
Step 3: Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: In a separate small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter into a thick paste to create the cinnamon swirl.
Step 5: Spoon the cheesecake filling over each crust, filling about three-quarters full. Add small dollops of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the cinnamon paste into the cheesecake, creating a cinnamon roll pattern.
Step 6: Bake the cheesecakes for 18–22 minutes, or until the centers are set. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecakes rest inside for 1 hour. Then, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 7: Before serving, top each mini cheesecake with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream if desired. Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the crust mixture along with the cinnamon.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies.
To make the swirl easier, warm the cinnamon paste slightly so it’s easier to dollop and swirl.
Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the creamiest texture.

Storage

Store the mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to one month—thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheat is not recommended; enjoy them chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of six small desserts arranged on a white plate, each dessert having three visible layers. The bottom layer is a thick, crumbly brown crust with a rough texture. Above it is a smooth, thick creamy white middle layer that looks soft and rich. The top layer is a spiral of light brown caramel or cinnamon cream with a glossy finish, dusted with a fine dark brown powder that adds a textured look. The spirals are neatly done, creating a rose-like pattern on each dessert. The white plate is placed on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?

Yes, these mini cheesecakes are ideal for making ahead. Prepare and bake them a day before your event, then chill overnight. This helps the flavors meld and ensures a creamy texture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

If you prefer a lighter topping, whipped cream is a great alternative. You can also dust with extra cinnamon or cocoa powder for simple elegance without added sweetness.