Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

If you love the comforting swirl of cinnamon rolls combined with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the bright, fresh burst of strawberries, then this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This delightful treat marries fluffy, tender dough with luscious layers of cream cheese and cinnamon sugar, all crowned with juicy strawberries and smooth cream cheese icing. It’s the perfect indulgence for brunch, special breakfasts, or any time you want to impress with something sweet, fresh, and utterly scrumptious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a special role to build the irresistibly soft dough, creamy cheesecake layer, and that signature cinnamon sugar kick, finished with fresh strawberries to brighten every bite.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, ensuring a soft, chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarm: Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast: Gives the dough its perfect rise and fluffiness.
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness to the dough.
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and moisture inside the rolls.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind everything together and provides structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives a warm, inviting aroma to the dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling, providing smooth creaminess.
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses depth into the cheesecake filling.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake filling so it’s just right.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and a tender crumb to the filling.
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar: For the addictive cinnamon sugar swirl.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: That warm spice that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the cinnamon sugar mixture.
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened: Spread over the dough to help cinnamon sugar stick beautifully.
• 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Provides juicy freshness and a pop of color.
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional): For a touch of extra sparkle on the strawberries if you like things sweeter.
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened: For the luscious cream cheese icing on top.
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the icing with a smooth finish.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: A little warmth for the icing flavor.
• 1-2 tablespoons whole milk, as needed: Adjusts the icing to your ideal drizzle consistency.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the icing.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining lukewarm milk with the active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This little bubbling sign is your green light that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in your dough.

Step 2: Prepare and Rise the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, softened butter, egg, and the frothy yeast mixture. Stir and then knead on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until you achieve a smooth, elastic dough. Place it in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This rise is what gives the rolls their incredible fluff.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While the dough rises, whisk together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream or Greek yogurt until the mixture is lusciously smooth and creamy. This cheesecake filling will be a dreamy layer inside your rolls.

Step 4: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Combine packed brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Set aside the softened butter since you’ll be spreading that onto the dough before adding the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 5: Roll Out and Layer the Dough

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a large 16 by 12-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then carefully layer on the cheesecake filling. Finally, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top. Every inch is packed with flavor here.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log starting from the long side, sealing the edges well to keep the filling inside. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 even rolls. Arrange these in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a bit of room between them. Let the rolls rise a second time for 30 to 45 minutes to get that perfect puffiness.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, until they turn golden brown and smell divine. Once out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes so you don’t lose any of that luscious topping when icing them.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls bake and cool, whip together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Add milk gradually to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency that drapes beautifully over the rolls.

Step 9: Finish with Fresh Strawberries

Slice the fresh strawberries and, if you prefer, toss them with a tablespoon of sugar for extra sweetness. Once the cream cheese icing is spread generously over the rolls, top them with these juicy strawberries for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

These rolls are stunning enough on their own, but adding fresh strawberry slices on top not only enhances their flavor but also adds a bright pop of color that’s as inviting as it is delicious. A sprinkle of powdered sugar over the strawberries adds a little extra magic.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a bold black tea to balance the sweetness. For a full brunch spread, consider fresh fruit salad or a light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these rolls on a wooden board with extra cream cheese icing in a small bowl for dipping. For a festive touch, scatter edible flowers or finely chopped pistachios on top of the strawberry garnish to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. Refrigerating can make them a bit firmer, so room temperature storage is best for short-term.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked rolls, place them in the baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze; when ready to bake, thaw overnight and bake as directed. For baked rolls, wrap them well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

Warm your rolls gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave individual rolls for 20 to 30 seconds until warm and gooey again. Adding a bit of extra cream cheese icing after reheating refreshes their lusciousness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and brightness, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the rolls soggy.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute all dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese and yogurt. Keep in mind, this might slightly alter the texture and flavor but will still be delicious.

How long do the rolls keep fresh after baking?

When kept properly stored at room temperature, these rolls stay delicious for about 2 to 3 days. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing is recommended to maintain their freshness.

Can I add other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches work beautifully as alternatives, offering a different but equally delightful twist to this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe.

Do I need a stand mixer to make the dough?

Not at all! While a stand mixer with a dough hook is convenient, this recipe is very manageable with just a sturdy bowl and some elbow grease for kneading. It’s a great way to connect with your dough.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is truly one of those special desserts that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It brings together the best of cinnamon rolls, cheesecake, and fresh fruit in a way that’s inviting, impressive, and downright delicious. I can’t recommend giving it a try enough — once you do, I’m sure these rolls will hold a cherished spot in your recipe collection and your heart.

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