If you’re someone who has a sweet tooth, loves a good dessert mashup, or simply enjoys the comforting, homey aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filling your kitchen, then this Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake Recipe is one to add to your collection. Combining the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the swirly goodness of cinnamon rolls and the indulgent flavor of honeybuns, this dessert brings together the best of both worlds.

The moment I first tried a honeybun-inspired cheesecake at a local bakery, I knew I had to create my own version at home. But then, I thought, why not kick it up a notch by adding the warm, spice-laden flavor of cinnamon rolls to the mix? And so, the Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake was born. It’s a dessert that’s not only delicious but also fun to make, with layers of buttery, cinnamon-swirled cake, velvety cream cheese filling, and a sticky, honey glaze that pulls it all together. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Now, let’s dive into the specifics of why this cheesecake is so special, the ingredients you’ll need, and how to create this mouthwatering treat in your own kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this recipe so irresistible is the unique combination of textures and flavors. Picture this: a buttery, soft cinnamon roll base, a rich and smooth cheesecake filling, and a decadent honey glaze drizzled over the top. Each bite offers something different—an explosion of cinnamon sweetness, a tangy cream cheese flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness from the honey.

But beyond its deliciousness, this dessert is a showstopper for gatherings and family meals. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or celebrating a special occasion, this cheesecake brings a sense of indulgence that feels extra special. It’s a dessert that doesn’t just taste good—it creates an experience, a delightful moment that everyone can share around the table. People love this recipe because it’s a little unexpected, combining two beloved treats—cinnamon rolls and honeybuns—into a cheesecake that is both familiar and novel. If you’re looking for a recipe that will impress guests or satisfy your own cravings for something indulgent, this is it.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake

Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you have everything you need to create this decadent dessert. The ingredients are fairly simple, but together they create a heavenly result.

For the Cinnamon Roll Base:

2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing included)
3 tablespoons of butter (melted)
2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
1/4 cup of brown sugar (packed)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese (softened)
1 cup of granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/4 cup of sour cream
1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour

For the Honey Glaze:

1/2 cup of honey
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

The base of cinnamon rolls gives this cheesecake a light, fluffy texture with a subtle cinnamon sweetness. The cheesecake filling is smooth, creamy, and full of flavor, while the honey glaze adds a touch of richness and moisture, making every bite more irresistible.

How Much Time Will You Need

This Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake doesn’t require a lot of time in terms of hands-on preparation, but it does need a bit of patience to bake and set properly. Here’s the breakdown:

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight for the best results)

The total time you’ll need for this recipe is around 5 to 6 hours, including the chilling period. It’s best to make it ahead of time, giving the cheesecake plenty of time to set up in the fridge. You’ll need this time to ensure the cheesecake has the perfect texture and that the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Make This Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making the cheesecake! Don’t worry, the steps are simple, and I’ll guide you through the process so you can create this treat like a pro.

Step 1: Prepare the cinnamon roll base. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Open the cans of cinnamon roll dough and arrange the rolls in the bottom of the pan, pinching them together to form an even layer. You’ll want to press down lightly so the dough sticks together.

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Drizzle this mixture over the cinnamon rolls, making sure to cover them evenly. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add in the sugar and continue beating until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, and mix until everything is combined into a smooth, thick batter.

Step 3: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cinnamon roll base. Once the cinnamon roll base has cooled slightly, pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the top. Use a spatula to smooth out the top and make sure it’s evenly distributed. Bake the cheesecake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly when you shake the pan. It should still have a slight wobble in the center but not be runny.

Step 4: Prepare the honey glaze. While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the honey glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the glaze is smooth. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Let the cheesecake cool and set. Once the cheesecake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. After it has cooled, place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to chill and set.

Step 6: Glaze and serve. After the cheesecake has chilled and set, drizzle the honey glaze over the top of the cheesecake. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor.

Substitutions

While the original recipe is delicious, there are a few substitutions you can make to cater to your tastes or dietary needs.

For a lighter version: Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This will reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
For a dairy-free version: Opt for a dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy sour cream alternative.
For a gluten-free version: Look for gluten-free cinnamon roll dough. Many stores offer gluten-free options in their refrigerated dough section.

Best Side Dish for Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake

Though this cheesecake is decadent enough to be enjoyed on its own, pairing it with a few complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are three great options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the cheesecake and provides a burst of freshness.
Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Pairing this cheesecake with a warm drink adds to the cozy, indulgent experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect contrast to the warm, gooey cinnamon roll base and creamy cheesecake filling.

Once you’re ready for Part 2, let me know, and I can continue with the next steps!

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving and presenting your Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake, the first thing you’ll want to do is ensure that it’s sliced neatly and presented in a way that highlights its decadent layers. This cheesecake is as much about the visual appeal as it is about the taste, so a few presentation tips will help elevate the experience for your guests.

Presentation Tips:

Serve it chilled: To maintain the integrity of the cheesecake’s texture, be sure to chill it for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the layers to firm up, making it easier to cut clean slices.
Drizzle the honey glaze just before serving: While you can add the glaze ahead of time, adding it right before serving gives the cheesecake a fresh, glossy finish that looks inviting and appetizing.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon: For an extra touch, lightly dust the top of the cheesecake with a pinch of ground cinnamon, or even some crushed pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Plate it beautifully: For an extra wow factor, serve each slice on a simple white plate, which allows the golden brown cinnamon roll base and creamy filling to shine. A sprig of fresh mint on the side can add a pop of color.

This is the kind of dessert that doesn’t need much, but small touches like these will help make your presentation picture-perfect.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

While the Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake is already indulgent and irresistible, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow to ensure the recipe turns out perfectly every time and that you can elevate it even further.

Tips and Tricks:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before starting the cheesecake filling. This helps the ingredients blend together smoothly, giving you a creamy, lump-free batter.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause your cheesecake to crack during baking. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Use a Water Bath for Smooth Texture: If you want to ensure the cheesecake bakes evenly and doesn’t crack, consider baking it in a water bath. Simply place your springform pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water, making sure the water reaches about halfway up the side of the springform pan.
Chill Longer for Best Results: While 4 hours of chilling is the minimum, this cheesecake tastes even better if allowed to chill overnight. The flavors have more time to meld, and the texture firms up perfectly.
Experiment with Toppings: In addition to the honey glaze, you can top the cheesecake with various other treats like a drizzle of caramel sauce, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. These will add flavor without overshadowing the core recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a cheesecake may seem straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve the perfect dessert every time.

Mistakes to Avoid:

Not letting the cheesecake cool properly: One of the biggest mistakes when making cheesecake is not allowing it to cool properly after baking. If you cut it too soon, the filling will be too soft and runny. Allow it to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before refrigerating, and make sure it chills fully before serving.
Overmixing the batter: While it’s tempting to keep mixing to get everything perfectly smooth, overmixing can introduce air bubbles into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to crack as it bakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Baking at too high of a temperature: Baking the cheesecake at too high of a temperature can cause it to bake unevenly or crack. Keep your oven temperature consistent at 350°F (175°C) and be patient as it bakes.
Skipping the water bath: While it’s not necessary, a water bath helps the cheesecake bake evenly, keeping the texture smooth and creamy without cracks. If you’re new to this technique, it’s definitely worth trying.

How to Store It

Once your Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake is fully baked and chilled, proper storage is important to keep it fresh for later enjoyment. This cheesecake holds up wonderfully for a few days if stored correctly.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cold environment helps preserve its creamy texture and keeps it fresh.
Freeze for Later: If you want to save some for later, this cheesecake freezes very well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, simply leave it in the fridge for several hours or overnight.
Honey Glaze: If you have leftover honey glaze, store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. You can reheat it slightly in the microwave before drizzling over the cheesecake before serving.

FAQ

1. Can I use store-bought honeybun glaze instead of making my own?
While store-bought honeybun glaze could work as a substitute, I highly recommend making your own for the freshest and most flavorful result. The homemade honey glaze adds a rich depth to the cheesecake and is super easy to make!

2. Can I make the cinnamon roll base from scratch?
Yes, absolutely! If you prefer to make the cinnamon roll dough from scratch, you can. Just make sure it’s a soft, sticky dough that will bake up nicely. The canned version is a convenient shortcut, but homemade dough would be just as delicious.

3. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for cheesecakes, as it allows for easy removal and clean slicing. However, if you don’t have one, you can use a regular 9-inch round cake pan. Just be sure to line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal, and be careful when cutting the cheesecake out of the pan.

4. Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this cheesecake gluten-free by using gluten-free cinnamon roll dough and making sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The cheesecake filling itself is naturally gluten-free.

5. Can I add other flavors or toppings to the cheesecake?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is quite versatile. You can add chocolate chips, caramel sauce, or even fresh berries on top. You can also incorporate a swirl of Nutella or peanut butter into the cheesecake filling for a fun twist.

Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake Recipe