Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Base
   Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. In a bowl, toss the pieces with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (if using). Spread the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing them down to form a crust.
3. Bake the Cinnamon Roll Base
   Bake the cinnamon roll base in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, until just lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheesecake Layer
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the eggs, one at a time, mixing until just combined. If using, add the sour cream and mix until smooth.
5. Assemble the Bars
   Pour the cheesecake batter over the baked cinnamon roll base, spreading it out evenly.
6. Prepare the Topping
   In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Drizzle this mixture over the cheesecake layer. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
7. Bake Again
   Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are lightly browned. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
8. Cool and Chill
   Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set completely.
9. Serve
   Once chilled, cut into bars and drizzle with the icing from the cinnamon roll cans before serving.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars

1. Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They taste even better the next day!
2. Flavor Variations: Add chocolate chips, caramel, or fruit to the cheesecake layer for extra flavor.
3. Serving Suggestions: Serve warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.