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Honey Bun Cheesecake Recipe


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4 from 83 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 15 servings

Description

This Honey Bun Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavors of a honey bun. A buttery Nilla Wafer crust perfectly complements the smooth cream cheese filling, which is swirled with a cinnamon-brown sugar mixture for a delightful visual and flavor twist. Finished with a sweet vanilla glaze drizzle, this cheesecake makes a stunning centerpiece for celebrations or indulgent treats.


Ingredients

Crust

  • 30 Nilla Wafers (crushed, approximately 2 cups)
  • 5 Tablespoons Butter (melted)
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 3 large Eggs
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Sour Cream
  • 1/4 cup Honey
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 2 Tablespoons All Purpose Flour
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Glaze Topping

  • 2 cups Confectioner’s Sugar
  • 1/3 cup Milk
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
  2. Make the Crust: Place the Nilla Wafers in a food processor or blender and pulse until they become fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl and stir in the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan using the back of a spoon. Refrigerate the crust to set while preparing the filling.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar on low speed with a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream, honey, vanilla extract, and flour until everything is fully combined.
  4. Mix Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside for layering.
  5. Assemble the Cheesecake Layers: Pour half of the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top. Add the remaining cream cheese mixture and then top with the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
  6. Create Cinnamon Swirls: Take a knife and gently swirl the brown sugar and cinnamon topping into the cream cheese mixture to create a marbled effect without fully blending them together.
  7. Prepare Water Bath: Place the springform pan inside a larger pan. Carefully pour boiling water around the cheesecake pan until it reaches halfway up the sides. This water bath helps prevent cracking and ensures even baking.
  8. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 45-55 minutes. The cheesecake edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly to the touch.
  9. Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 45 minutes to gradually reduce temperature and prevent cracking.
  10. Remove from Water Bath and Chill: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath and springform pan. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
  11. Prepare the Glaze: Just before serving, whisk together the confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth to create the glaze topping.
  12. Serve: Run a knife around the sides of the cheesecake to release it from the pan. Place it on a serving platter, drizzle the glaze over the top allowing it to drip down the sides. Slice, serve, and enjoy this decadent honey bun-inspired cheesecake!

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
  • Use a water bath to prevent cracks in the cheesecake while baking.
  • Swirling with the knife should be gentle to keep the marbled effect intact.
  • Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances texture and flavor.
  • The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweet finish reminiscent of honey bun icing.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American