I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve made these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars. Seriously, if I had a dollar for every time I’ve whipped up this delectable dessert, I could probably buy myself a small island! There’s just something about the combination of creamy cheesecake and soft, gooey cinnamon rolls that brings back memories of cozy mornings and family gatherings. I remember the first time I made these; my friends were over for a game night, and I thought, “Why not surprise them with something sweet?” Little did I know, I’d create a dessert that would steal the show!
These bars are not just a treat; they’re a full-on experience. The swirling of that cinnamon goodness with rich cream cheese creates an indulgent flavor fusion that’s simply irresistible. And don’t worry, even though they look fancy, I promise they’re super simple to make! So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone begging for seconds (or thirds)!
What’s in Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars?
Cinnamon Roll Dough: The star of the show! I love using the refrigerated version because it saves time, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough can take these bars to the next level. Look for a brand like Pillsbury—it’s reliable and easy to work with!
Cream Cheese: A crucial component for that creamy cheesecake layer. Be sure it’s softened to room temperature to avoid lumps. My go-to brand is Philadelphia; it’s just the creamiest!
Sugar: We need a bit of sweetness for the cheesecake, and why not sprinkle the top with some extra for that perfect finish?
Eggs: They help bind everything together and provide that lovely creamy texture in the cheesecake filling. Ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this fragrant extract adds a warmly familiar flavor. Always opt for pure vanilla extract if you can—it’s a taste bud game changer!
Cinnamon: Because what’s a cinnamon roll without cinnamon? Fresh ground cinnamon is the best, or you can use store-bought. Either way, it’s essential for that comforting flavor.
Is Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Good for You?
Let’s be real here; these bars are a dessert, so they’re not going to win any health awards. However, if you’re looking for some highlights, here they are:
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese provides calcium and a bit of protein, but we all know it’s the decadence we crave. Moderation is key!
Cinnamon: This delightful spice may help regulate blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. So, if you take one role out of these bars, it’s like you’re getting a serving of health advice, right?
Of course, these should be an occasional treat and not a daily indulgence! Eat them in moderation and share with friends—because happiness is best enjoyed together!
Ingredients
– 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (about 16 rolls each)
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Optional: Icing from cinnamon rolls for drizzling on top
**Serves: 16 Bars**
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Open the cinnamon roll dough and cut each roll into quarters. Spread half of the cut dough evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan—don’t worry about making it perfect; it’ll all melt together!
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Beat until smooth and creamy—your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cinnamon dough in the pan. Then, sprinkle the remaining pieces of dough over the top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
7. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Drizzle the icing from the cinnamon rolls over the top for a finishing touch.
8. Slice into bars and serve! Enjoy them warm or chilled—both ways are delicious!
Sweet Tips and Serving Suggestions
These bars are versatile! Here are some sweet suggestions to elevate them even more:
– Try adding a swirl of caramel sauce or chocolate sauce on top before baking.
– Want to make it a full meal? Pair these bars with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate breakfast or dessert experience.
– If you’re feeling festive, consider adding some nutmeg or pumpkin spice into the cheesecake during fall.
Whatever you choose, I promise these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars will be a hit at any gathering, and even if you’re just having a quiet night at home, they are sure to bring a sense of joy! So give them a try, and let me know how they turn out—I can’t wait to hear about your delicious adventures!