Introduction
Mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts, bringing together the creamy richness of cheesecake and the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a sweet indulgence after dinner. With their luscious texture and irresistible taste, these mini cheesecakes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious delights!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 teaspoons milk
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven is warming up, line a muffin pan with cupcake liners. This will make it easier to remove the mini cheesecakes later and add a nice touch to their presentation.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir the dry ingredients until they are evenly mixed. Then, add the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined.
Take about 1 tablespoon of this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner. This will form the crust of your cheesecake. Once all the crusts are in place, bake them for about 5 minutes, then remove them from the oven and allow them to cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. It’s important to ensure the cream cheese is well-softened to avoid lumps. Next, add the vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crusts, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. Using a spoon or a small scoop, drop small dollops of this cinnamon mixture onto the cheesecake batter. Then, take a toothpick or skewer and gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake the mini cheesecakes for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center, as they will continue to firm up once out of the oven. After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the cheesecakes cool completely in the pan. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to allow them to set properly.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
While the cheesecakes are chilling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to reach your desired consistency; you want it thick enough to drizzle over the cheesecakes but not too runny.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once the mini cheesecakes have cooled and set, take them out of the refrigerator. Drizzle the prepared glaze over the top of each cheesecake for a sweet finishing touch.
These mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes are perfect for serving at parties, brunches, or as a sweet treat for yourself. They are easy to share and each bite offers a delightful burst of flavor.
Tips and Tricks
- Variations: Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit pieces to elevate your mini cheesecakes.
- Storage: These mini cheesecakes store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just be sure to wrap them tightly.
- Customization: If you want a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream without compromising too much on texture.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra special touch, serve your mini cheesecakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Conclusion
These mini cinnamon roll cheesecakes are not just a dessert; they are an experience! Combining the rich flavors of cheesecake with the warm spices of cinnamon rolls, they offer a delightful treat that is both creamy and comforting. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, these little delights are sure to become a favorite. Try making them for your next gathering, and watch as they disappear in no time. Enjoy baking and indulging in these tasty treats!
