Cinnamon Sugar Cheesecake Swirls

Cinnamon sugar Hawaiian cheesecake swirls combine the pillowy sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with creamy cheesecake filling and a gooey cinnamon ribbon, finished with a vanilla glaze that melts into every swirl. These are made for lazy weekend mornings or when you simply crave bakery style comfort at home. The technique is approachable and rewards you with golden soft centers and irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen.

I remember testing these for a Saturday brunch when a friend was visiting — we ended up eating almost the whole pan between three people and every time I make them now it is an instant hit.

Ingredients

• Hawaiian sweet rolls: Twelve rolls bring soft and sweet flavor. Go for ones that feel fresh and springy when squeezed
• Unsalted butter: Adds glossy richness and bonds the cinnamon layer. Choose quality for best aroma
• Cream cheese: Full fat and well softened will give your filling silkiness. Avoid cold cream cheese which can leave lumps
• Granulated sugar: Brightens the cheesecake filling and makes it perfectly sweet
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla deepens the dessert flavor. Use pure extract rather than imitation
• Egg yolk: Binds and enriches the cheesecake filling for structure
• Brown sugar: Dark or light both work but dark gives more caramel notes
• Ground cinnamon: Always opt for fresh cinnamon with bright warm aroma
• Powdered sugar: Sifted if possible to keep the glaze smooth and lump free
• Milk or heavy cream: Adjusts glaze texture. Use whole milk or cream for extra richness
• Vanilla extract: Finishes the glaze with a warm note

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five Celsius. Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish or line with parchment for easier clean up

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until fluffy and smooth. Add in granulated sugar vanilla and egg yolk. Mix until fully creamy with no lumps stopping to scrape the bowl sides to ensure all is combined

Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

In a separate bowl stir together brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly mixed. Pour in melted butter and combine until the texture looks like wet sand

Flatten the Hawaiian Rolls:

Separate each Hawaiian roll carefully. Using a rolling pin or with your hands gently press and flatten each into a rectangle about one fourth inch thick. Try not to tear the bread as you work

Assemble the Swirls:

Spread about one tablespoon cheesecake filling over each flattened roll leaving a small border so the filling does not ooze out. Sprinkle a heavy layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top

Roll Up the Swirls:

From one end roll each bread rectangle up tightly like a jelly roll. Keep the seam side down to help it hold together. Arrange each in your prepared pan leaving a bit of space between

Brush with Butter:

Brush the tops gently with more melted butter to encourage browning and shine

Bake to Perfection:

Place in the oven and bake uncovered for twenty to twenty five minutes. The swirls should rise become golden and set in the center. Your kitchen will smell like a bakery

Make the Vanilla Glaze:

While they bake whisk powdered sugar milk or cream and vanilla in a bowl until smooth and pourable. Add more milk if needed for drizzling consistency

Glaze and Serve:

Once the swirls are out drizzle the glaze generously while warm. Let cool just slightly to allow the filling to set then enjoy every gooey layered bite

My favorite part is the cinnamon sugar butter mixture. It caramelizes against the golden bread for a taste that reminds me of family holiday mornings. One year I doubled the cinnamon just to see who would notice — and now nobody wants it any other way.

Storage Tips

Cool completely before placing leftovers in an airtight container. They stay soft in the fridge up to three days. For longer storage wrap individually and freeze for up to two months. To rewarm place in a warm oven or microwave in short bursts

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Hawaiian rolls soft potato rolls can work though the flavor will differ. Light cream cheese gives slightly less richness but still works for the filling. Swap out the brown sugar in the swirl for coconut sugar to add a toasty twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these warm for the ultimate gooey experience. Add a sprinkling of chopped toasted pecans for crunch or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to serve them as a dessert

Cultural and Historical Context

This recipe draws on classic American cinnamon rolls and cheesecake. The Hawaiian roll shortcut is a fun twist on old fashioned yeast dough baking making it an easy treat to whip up any time you crave something nostalgic

Seasonal Adaptations

Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg in winter for cozier flavor. Top with fresh berries in summer for a tangy and sweet finish. Swap glaze for a maple drizzle in fall for extra warmth

Success Stories

Every time I make this for friends people ask for the recipe before even finishing their slice. Several neighbors now message me if they catch a whiff from my oven so it has become my go to for making impromptu gatherings a bit more special

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the rolls and freeze unbaked in your pan tightly covered. When ready to enjoy thaw overnight then bake as directed adding a few extra minutes if needed. Glaze fresh after baking for the prettiest finish

Whether you bake these for family or a weekend treat the rich cinnamon ribbon and silky cheesecake filling make the morning memorable. Enjoy them warm and they will disappear before you know it.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of rolls should I use?

Soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls work best for a tender, flavorful base that holds up to the creamy and sugary layers.

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese yields the smoothest, richest filling for unbeatable texture and flavor.

→ How do I prevent the rolls from tearing?

Gently flatten each roll using a rolling pin or your hand. Work slowly to avoid tearing the soft bread.

→ How do I know when the swirls are done baking?

Swirls are ready when puffed and lightly golden, with a set center. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

→ What is the best way to drizzle the glaze?

Drizzle vanilla glaze over the warm swirls for easy spreading and an extra-smooth, glossy finish.

→ Can these be made ahead?

You can prepare and assemble in advance, then bake and glaze right before serving for freshness.