Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
With cinnamon sugar swirls mixed into mini cheesecakes, these Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are a super fun recipe! Perfect for dessert or a delightful breakfast treat, they combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the creamy texture of cheesecake. These cheesecakes are easy to make and are sure to impress at any gathering, from brunches to parties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just about 55 minutes, these mini cheesecakes can be made easily, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm or chilled, topped with frosting or fresh fruit—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them!
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cream cheese and cinnamon creates a rich taste that satisfies sweet cravings.
- Perfect Size: Mini portions make it easy for guests to indulge without feeling guilty, ideal for parties or family gatherings.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping you swirl in the cinnamon sugar, making this a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cupcake pan
- Cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag (or ziplock bag)
Importance of Each Tool
- Cupcake Pan: Ensures even baking and provides the perfect shape for your mini cheesecakes.
- Electric Mixer: Saves time and effort in blending ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Piping Bag: Allows for easy decoration of your cheesecakes with frosting, making presentation a breeze.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup (134g) vanilla wafer cookie crumbs
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp (56g) Challenge butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 12 ounces (339g) Challenge cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
- 3 tbsp (24g) flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (115g) sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (52g) sugar
For the Frosting
- 3 tbsp Challenge butter
- 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tbsp milk
How to Make Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (162°C). Place cupcake liners in a cupcake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla wafer cookie crumbs, sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Divide this mixture among the cupcake liners (about 2 tablespoons per cup) and press it firmly into the bottoms.
- Bake crusts for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (148°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the Challenge cream cheese, sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon until well combined using low speed on an electric mixer.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating slowly and scraping down after each addition. Set filling aside.
Step 3: Assemble with Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- In a small bowl, combine ground cinnamon and sugar for filling.
- Spoon about 1/2 to 3/4 tablespoon of cheesecake filling into each cupcake liner.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon sugar over this layer completely covering it.
- Repeat two more times for a total of three layers of filling and cinnamon sugar until liners are mostly full.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecakes
- Bake cheesecakes for 15–17 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in center.
- Turn off oven; leave door closed for an additional 5 minutes.
- Crack open oven door slightly; allow cheesecakes to cool inside for about 15–20 minutes before transferring to refrigerator to cool completely.
Step 5: Make Frosting and Serve
- Once cooled completely, remove cheesecakes from pan carefully.
- To prepare frosting, mix Challenge butter until smooth in texture.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; continue mixing until smooth consistency is achieved.
- Transfer frosting into piping bag fitted with small round tip (or ziplock bag with corner cut off).
- Pipe swirls of frosting onto each cooled cheesecake before serving.
These Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are sure to be a hit at any occasion—enjoy!
How to Serve Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
These delightful Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are perfect for various occasions. Whether you are hosting a brunch, a family gathering, or simply indulging yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness and balance the sweetness.
- Banana Slices: Sweet banana slices can enhance the flavor profile and add texture.
Drizzle with Syrup
- Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds richness and complements the cinnamon flavor.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a chocolate sauce drizzle provides an indulgent touch.
Add a Whipped Cream Topping
- Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream creates a light and airy contrast to the dense cheesecake.
- Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Infuse your whipped cream with cinnamon for a cohesive flavor experience.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with these cheesecakes, enhancing their comforting taste.
- Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, herbal tea can provide a soothing complement to the rich flavors.
How to Perfect Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
To ensure your Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature cream cheese and eggs helps achieve a smoother batter without lumps.
- Mix on Low Speed: Beating the mixture on low speed minimizes air bubbles that can cause cracks during baking.
- Layer Filling Generously: Make sure to layer the cinnamon sugar filling generously for that signature cinnamon roll flavor in each bite.
- Allow Cooling Gradually: Letting the cheesecakes cool gradually in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes that could lead to cracks.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least two hours before serving for better texture and flavor development.
- Decorate Creatively: Use your favorite toppings or garnishes to make each cheesecake visually appealing.
Best Side Dishes for Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
To create a well-rounded dessert experience, consider serving these side dishes alongside your Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes. They complement the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds vibrancy and freshness to balance the richness of the cheesecakes.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits provides a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the cheesecakes.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake echoes the cinnamon theme and makes for a delightful pairing during brunch.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Light pancakes or waffles drizzled with syrup create an indulgent breakfast spread alongside the cheesecakes.
- Nut Mix: A selection of nuts offers crunch and healthy fats that complement the sweetness of the dessert.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can provide savory elements that balance out the sweetness of your mini cheesecakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Batter: This can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecakes. Mix on low speed and stop as soon as combined.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Removing the cheesecakes from the oven too quickly can cause them to deflate. Allow them to cool gradually in the oven.
- Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to lumps. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Using Incorrect Oven Temperature: Each oven is different. Make sure to check your oven’s calibration with an oven thermometer for accurate baking conditions.
- Neglecting the Crust: A well-pressed crust provides structure. Press the crust mixture firmly into the cupcake liners for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
- Wrap each cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cheesecakes in a baking dish and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual pieces on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place cheesecakes in a skillet over low heat, cover it, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes:
Can I customize my Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes?
Yes! You can add different toppings like chocolate chips or fruit preserves to customize your cheesecakes.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecakes?
To avoid cracks, mix your batter on low speed and ensure proper cooling after baking.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe.
How long do these cheesecakes take to prepare?
The total prep time is approximately 30 minutes, followed by about 25 minutes of baking time.
Final Thoughts
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with creamy cheesecake. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various toppings or flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe; your taste buds will thank you!
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. Perfectly portioned for individual enjoyment, these bite-sized treats are ideal for any occasion—from brunch to festive gatherings. With their warm cinnamon sugar swirls and smooth cream cheese filling, they offer a satisfying sweetness that will impress family and friends alike. Easy to prepare and customize, you can serve them with your favorite toppings or simply enjoy them as is. Indulge in these charming cheesecakes that bring together the best of both worlds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookie crumbs
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp Challenge butter, melted
- 12 ounces Challenge cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp Challenge butter
- 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (162°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- Mix cookie crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon; press into liners and bake for 5 minutes.
- Lower oven to 300°F (148°C). Beat cream cheese, sugar, flour, and cinnamon until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla, then mix in eggs one at a time.
- Layer cheesecake filling with cinnamon sugar in each liner, repeating twice more.
- Bake for 15–17 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center; cool gradually in the oven for about 20 minutes before refrigerating.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheesecake (50g)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
