Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well mixed. Firmly pack this mixture into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Preheat your oven and bake the crust in the center for 8 minutes. Allow the crust to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the cinnamon swirl and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix and mash the streusel topping ingredients until they form a well-moistened, crumbly mixture.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the sour cream, flour, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Introduce the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition until just combined.
Layering
- Pour about half of the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust, spread it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top. Dollop and spread the remaining cheesecake filling on top without disturbing the layers.
- Use a skewer to gently swirl the mixture together without touching the crust.
- Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of your cheesecake.
Baking
- Fill a large pan with 2 cups of boiling water and place it on the bottom rack of your preheated 325°F oven.
- Place your cheesecake on the center rack above the water and bake for 70 minutes. Remove the water pan and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes.
- The cheesecake should appear slightly puffed, with brown and crisp streusel. When you gently shake the pan, the center should jiggle while the edges remain firm.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for additional 2 hours with the door ajar for gentle cooling. Run a thin knife along the edges to help release it from the pan.
Chilling
- Let your cheesecake cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. Chill for a minimum of 4 hours, or until fully set.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to form a smooth icing. Adjust the milk amount based on your desired icing consistency.
- Carefully remove the chilled cheesecake from the pan and drizzle the icing over the top just before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a more intense flavor, use freshly grated cinnamon or higher-grade vanilla extract. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter. When swirling the layers, be gentle to avoid disrupting the crust; it should remain intact.
