1. Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the crushed cinnamon graham crackers, melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it reaches slightly up the sides. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Honeybun Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and honey, beating on medium speed until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each is incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The result should be a smooth, fragrant batter with a perfect balance of spiced sweetness.
3. Create the Cinnamon Roll Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. This swirl mixture is key to capturing that signature cinnamon roll flavor. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, then drizzle half of the cinnamon roll swirl over the batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the mixture into the cheesecake layer. Repeat this process with the remaining cheesecake batter and cinnamon swirl.
4. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet (to catch any leaks) and bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
5. Prepare the Honey Glaze: While the cheesecake cools, make the honey glaze by combining honey, butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the butter melts and everything is well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
6. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by vanilla extract. Add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency—a smooth, spreadable frosting that’s not too runny.
7. Assemble and Serve: Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, pour the honey glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. For an added touch, pipe the cream cheese frosting in swirls or patterns across the top of the cheesecake. You can also sprinkle extra cinnamon on top for an added flourish.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. The flavors develop wonderfully as it chills.
Final Touches:
This Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake is the ultimate fusion of comforting, homestyle treats. Whether it’s served as a luxurious brunch centerpiece or a decadent dessert after dinner, each slice is a warm embrace of honeyed sweetness, aromatic cinnamon, and luscious cream cheese. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or spiced tea to elevate the experience.
Prepare to be flooded with compliments, and don’t be surprised if this cheesecake becomes a frequently requested favorite. For those who stay to savor every bite, the magic lies not just in the taste but in the nostalgia and warmth it brings.
Enjoy every swirl, bite, and lingering moment of this exclusive creation!