If you have a sweet tooth and a love for indulgent desserts, then you are going to adore the Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe. This delightful treat combines the warm, nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the creamy, dreamy texture of cheesecake, all baked into convenient bars that are perfect for sharing or savoring solo. From the first bite, you get that comforting swirl of cinnamon sugar paired with luscious cheesecake, creating a mouthwatering experience that feels like a hug in dessert form. Whether you’re serving these bars at brunch, a party, or simply as a special treat, they never fail to bring smiles and requests for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering flavor and texture. These basics ensure you get that soft cinnamon roll base, rich cheesecake topping, and a delicate sweetness that ties it all together.
- Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (2 cans, 8 oz each): Convenient and ready to bake, providing a fluffy, cinnamon-swirled foundation.
- Cream cheese (2 blocks, softened, 8 oz each): The star ingredient for a smooth and tangy cheesecake layer.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps achieve a creamy texture in the topping.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor by adding warmth and depth.
- Whipped topping (1 cup): Lightens the cheesecake layer, making it silky and airy.
- Cinnamon sugar (to taste): The perfect sprinkle on top for that signature, irresistible crunch and extra cinnamon kick.
How to Make Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get everything nice and ready for baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, which makes lifting the bars out so much easier after baking. Next, open the cinnamon roll dough cans, separate the rolls, and press the dough evenly into the bottom of your pan. Creating a smooth, solid base ensures your dessert will bake evenly with the perfect cinnamon swirl in every bite.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
In a bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. This is the foundation for the luscious topping that makes these bars feel so indulgent. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to bring sweetness and a touch of warmth. Beat everything together until the mixture is silky and well combined, setting the stage for the final fluffy touch.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently incorporate the whipped topping into your cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Folding instead of mixing vigorously keeps the mixture light and airy, giving your bars that dreamy, cloud-like cheesecake texture you’ll love. Spread this luscious layer evenly over the cinnamon roll base, so every bar gets an equal share of creamy goodness.
Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Sugar and Bake
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar generously over the top for a sprinkle of sparkle and that signature cinnamon crunch. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges start to turn a light golden brown and the cheesecake layer sets with just a slight softness in the center. This baking time is key to maintaining that ooey-gooey quality that makes this recipe truly special.
Step 5: Cool and Chill Before Serving
Allow your bars to cool completely in the pan. For the best texture and clean slicing, refrigerate them for at least an hour. This chilling step helps the cheesecake layer firm up while keeping everything tender and perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these bars, consider dusting a little extra powdered sugar or cinnamon right before serving. A drizzle of warm caramel or a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add a glossy, sweet finish that makes presentation pop and taste buds sing.
Side Dishes
These bars shine on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich, creamy latte. For brunch gatherings, slicing alongside fresh fruit like berries or a simple fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast that balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe into a centerpiece by cutting them into bite-sized squares for an elegant dessert platter. Layer bars with whipped cream and berries in a trifle dish for a stunning visual and taste experience that delights guests with every spoonful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled preserves the creamy cheesecake texture and the tender cinnamon roll base, making snacking convenient and just as delicious when you come back for more.
Freezing
For longer storage, these bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual bars or the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in the freezer. They will keep well for up to 2 months without losing their signature ooey-gooey texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes if you want them warm. Keep in mind that part of the joy of these bars is their creamy texture, so reheating too much can alter that perfect balance.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade dough can add a personal touch and extra flavor. Just be sure it’s pressed evenly into the pan to ensure uniform baking. The canned dough is a great shortcut, but fresh dough can make this recipe even more special.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
To soften cream cheese rapidly, cut it into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short 10-second bursts, but be careful not to melt it.
Can I substitute whipped topping with whipped cream?
Yes, fresh whipped cream works wonderfully and adds a natural creaminess. Just be sure it’s whipped to soft peaks before folding it into the cream cheese mixture to maintain that light texture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
You want to see golden edges and a cheesecake layer that looks set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. This ensures the bars stay soft and ooey-gooey once cooled.
Are these bars suitable for breakfast?
Definitely! With their cinnamon roll base and creamy topping, they make a deliciously indulgent breakfast or brunch treat that feels like a special occasion in every bite.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe that makes it a must-try for anyone who loves a deliciously rich yet comforting dessert. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight but special enough to impress guests or brighten your weekend mornings. Once you try these bars, they’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for sharing warmth, sweetness, and a bit of happy indulgence with those you love. Trust me, this recipe has stolen hearts more than once in my kitchen and will likely do the same in yours.
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Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Ooey-Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars combine the soft, sweet flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with a creamy cheesecake topping. Simple to prepare with refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and a luscious cream cheese mixture, these bars are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful snack. Baked to golden perfection and garnished with cinnamon sugar, they offer an indulgent treat with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (8 oz each)
Cheesecake Topping
- 2 blocks cream cheese, softened (8 oz each)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping
Garnish
- Cinnamon sugar, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Dough Base: Open the cans of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and separate the rolls. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming a solid base layer.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is fluffy.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula to maintain a light and airy texture without deflating the mixture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll dough layer in the pan, creating a smooth cheesecake topping.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Garnish: Sprinkle an even layer of cinnamon sugar over the cheesecake topping to add a sweet, spicy flavor and attractive finish.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the cheesecake layer is set but still slightly soft in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For the best texture and clean slicing, refrigerate the bars for at least one hour before cutting them into servings.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake mixture.
- For easy removal, lining the pan with parchment paper is highly recommended.
- Refrigerating the bars before slicing helps the cheesecake layer set better and makes cutting cleaner.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or drizzle caramel sauce for added texture and flavor.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
