If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls and crave the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Imagine swirls of tender cinnamon-laced dough topped with a luscious cheesecake layer, finished with a sweet cinnamon swirl and drizzled with a silky glaze. These bars bring together the best of both worlds in every bite—soft, gooey, slightly caramelized, and downright addictive. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful snack, they’re guaranteed to become an instant favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, simple ingredients come together to create a spectacular blend of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of gooey sweetness, creamy richness, and cinnamon-spiced warmth that makes these bars irresistible.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count each): The foundation of this recipe, providing that soft, fluffy dough infused with classic cinnamon sweetness.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds a luscious richness and helps create a lightly golden, buttery base.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the cinnamon flavor with a warm, spicy touch sprinkled over the base.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for the creamy, tangy cheesecake layer.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant vanilla undertone to the filling and glaze.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the cheesecake layer and give it structure while keeping it silky smooth.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Makes the cheesecake tangier and creamier with a slight tang.
- 1/4 cup butter, softened: Used in the cinnamon swirl, contributing to richness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings deep molasses sweetness to the cinnamon swirl.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Boosts the warm spice in the cinnamon swirl topping.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For creating the sweet glaze that finishes the bars perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Thins out the glaze for a smooth drizzle.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the glaze, rounding out the taste.
How to Make Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan generously or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and will bake evenly.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Roll Base
Open the cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and roll out each one slightly, then slice each roll into quarters. Arrange these pieces in an even layer across the bottom of your prepared pan, pressing gently so they snugly fit together. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the top to amp up the spice. This base will get wonderfully golden and gooey in the oven.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated. This luscious cheesecake batter will cascade over your cinnamon roll base, creating an irresistible creamy layer.
Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
Combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until you have a thick, spreadable mixture. Dollop small spoonfuls of this cinnamon swirl all over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the cheesecake so marbled ribbons of cinnamon sweetness peek through each bite.
Step 5: Bake
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheesecake is set, the top turns lightly golden, and the center feels firm to a gentle shake. Perfectly baked bars will be soft and tender yet hold their shape when cut.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
While your bars bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. This glossy glaze is the final touch that adds a sweet, silky finish to your bars.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before slicing to ensure clean edges. Just before serving, drizzle the glaze generously over each square for that signature ooey-gooey appeal. Get ready to enjoy this sweet treat that is sure to satisfy every craving!
How to Serve Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe pop visually and flavor-wise, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh berries can also brighten the plate and balance the sweetness.
Side Dishes
These bars are pretty decadent on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra luxurious touch. A hot cup of coffee or chai tea also complements the cinnamon and cheesecake flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests at brunch or a party? Serve the bars on a rustic wooden board or arrange them neatly on a cake stand. You can even garnish with edible flowers or drizzle additional glaze in elegant patterns for a cafe-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Storing them chilled helps maintain the cheesecake’s texture and keeps the cinnamon roll base from getting soggy. Just pull them out a bit before serving to soften.
Freezing
If you want to make this recipe ahead for a big event, the bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your frozen bars, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently in a microwave or oven. Warming brings back the soft, gooey texture that makes this Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls can add an extra special touch. Just be sure they are fully cooked and slightly cooled before using them as the base layer for the bars.
What is the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
The easiest way is to leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’re in a rush, cut the cream cheese into small cubes and microwave in 10-second bursts, stirring in between to prevent overheating.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
While the cinnamon rolls in this recipe typically contain gluten, you can substitute with gluten-free cinnamon rolls made from a trusted recipe or brand to keep the same delicious effect.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done baking?
Look for the cheesecake to be set but slightly jiggly in the very center when you gently shake the pan. The edges should be firm and starting to turn golden.
Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?
For best results, full-fat versions are recommended to achieve that rich, creamy texture characteristic of this recipe. Low-fat options might make the bars less smooth and slightly less decadent.
Final Thoughts
You have now the perfect recipe to bring a little extra magic to your kitchen: the Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe combines comforting cinnamon roll warmth with rich cheesecake goodness in every single bite. Whether you make it for a cozy weekend breakfast, a crowd-pleasing dessert, or a sweet anytime treat, these bars are sure to become a beloved favorite. Don’t wait to share this delightful recipe with your friends and family—it’s baking time!
Print
Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars combine the best of cinnamon rolls and creamy cheesecake in one decadent dessert. With a cinnamon roll base, rich cheesecake filling, a cinnamon swirl topping, and a sweet glaze drizzled on top, these bars are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count each)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaning.
- Make the Cinnamon Roll Base: Roll out the cinnamon rolls and slice each roll into quarters. Spread these pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan, pressing them gently together to form a uniform layer. Brush the base with melted butter then sprinkle with ground cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to incorporate fully. Stir in the sour cream until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Pour this cheesecake filling evenly over the cinnamon roll base in the pan.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Drop small dollops of this cinnamon swirl mixture over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cheesecake layer to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The cheesecake should be set, the top lightly golden, and the center should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the pan. This ensures it is baked through but still creamy.
- Make the Glaze: While the bars bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Just before serving, drizzle the glaze generously over the top of the bars to add a sweet finishing touch. Enjoy the ooey-gooey deliciousness!
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture in the cheesecake layer.
- Let the bars cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Refrigerate leftover bars and warm slightly before serving for the best flavor.
- You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream if desired.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle an extra 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon over the bars before baking.
