Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars – Sweet, Creamy & Irresistibly Cozy
Layers of cinnamon roll dough and creamy cheesecake filling, baked into golden perfection and topped with icing—this dessert is pure bliss in every bite.
Introduction: The Best of Both Worlds
What happens when you combine two of the most beloved desserts—cinnamon rolls and cheesecake—into one decadent treat? You get these Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars, a dessert that’s rich, creamy, spiced, and absolutely unforgettable.
With a buttery cinnamon roll crust, a luscious cheesecake center, and a golden cinnamon-swirled topping, these bars are perfect for holidays, brunches, potlucks, or anytime you want to wow a crowd. And the best part? They’re made with refrigerated cinnamon roll dough, so they come together quickly and easily.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bars so indulgent:
Dough Base & Topping:
- Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each)
Soft, sweet, and spiced—forms both the crust and the topping.
Bonus: Use the icing packets included in the cans for drizzling.
Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese (2 blocks, 8 oz each, softened)
Rich and tangy—creates a smooth, creamy center. - Powdered sugar (1 cup)
Sweetens the filling and keeps it silky. - Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Adds warmth and depth. - Whipped topping (1 cup)
Lightens the texture and adds fluffiness.
Garnish:
- Cinnamon sugar
Adds sparkle and extra spice on top.
Optional: Add chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.
Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Tip: Leave a bit of overhang for easy lifting after baking.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Open 1 can of cinnamon roll dough.
Press the rolls into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust.
Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
Tip: Press seams together to prevent gaps.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a bowl:
- Beat 2 blocks softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
Fold in 1 cup whipped topping until light and fluffy.
Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the baked crust.
Open the second can of cinnamon roll dough.
Break into small pieces and scatter over the top of the cheesecake layer.
Tip: Press gently so the dough adheres without sinking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until:
- Top is golden brown
- Center is set but slightly jiggly
Cool completely in the pan.
Tip: Chill for 1–2 hours for cleaner slices.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Drizzle with the icing from the cinnamon roll cans.
Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for sparkle and spice.
Cut into bars and serve.
Yields:
- 12–16 bars, depending on size
Presentation Tip: Serve on a white platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon sticks for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Holiday brunch
- Dessert tables
- Bake sales
- Cozy weekend treats
Pair with:
- Hot coffee or chai latte
- Spiced cider or eggnog
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Tip: Serve slightly warm for maximum gooeyness.
Variations to Try
Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:
Apple Cinnamon
Add a layer of sautéed apples between the crust and cheesecake.
Nutty Crunch
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Chocolate Swirl
Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer.
Lighter Version
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate.
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze bars (without icing) for up to 2 months. Thaw and drizzle before serving.
Tip: Use parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 16)
- Calories: ~260
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~15g
- Sugar: ~18g
- Sodium: ~220mg
- Fiber: ~1g
These bars are:
- Sweet and spiced
- Creamy and gooey
- Perfectly portioned
- Great for sharing
Final Thoughts
These Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of comfort, creativity, and indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.