If you’re craving the perfect sweet treat that brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the richness of cheesecake, and the fresh burst of strawberries, look no further than this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe. It’s a luscious twist on the classic cinnamon roll that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delight your taste buds with every gooey, fruity bite. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are guaranteed to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe relies on simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that each play a critical role in creating its luscious texture and flavor. From the soft, pillowy dough to the creamy cheesecake and vibrant strawberry filling, here’s what you’ll need to bring these rolls to life:
- Warm milk (1 cup, 110°F): Activates the yeast perfectly to help the dough rise.
- Active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons): Essential for creating those fluffy, airy rolls.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds subtle sweetness to the dough and feeds the yeast.
- Large eggs (2): Give structure and richness to the dough.
- Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): Intimates softness and adds moisture in the dough.
- All-purpose flour (4 cups): The sturdy base that shapes the dough with just the right chewiness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Strawberry preserves or jam (¾ cup): Adds that vibrant fruity punch classic in every bite.
- Fresh strawberries, finely chopped (½ cup): Bring brightness and texture to the filling.
- Brown sugar (¾ cup): Deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The warm spice that defines the cinnabon experience.
- Unsalted butter, softened (¼ cup): For a luscious, spreadable filling layer.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces for filling, 4 ounces for frosting): Provides the creamy, tangy element that sets these rolls apart.
- Powdered sugar (¼ cup for filling, 1 cup for frosting): Sweetens and smooths the cheesecake filling and frosting.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon each for filling and frosting): Adds a warm, inviting aroma.
- Milk (2 tablespoons, as needed for frosting): Adjusts the frosting to the perfect creamy consistency.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining warm milk and sugar in a large bowl, then sprinkle yeast over the top. Let it sit until foamy, around 5 to 10 minutes, which means your yeast is alive and kicking. Then whisk in eggs and melted butter to create a rich base. Gradually add your flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. This is where the magic begins—knead either by hand or mixer for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Pop it into a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1½ hours until you see it double in size.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
While the dough is rising, whip together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This luscious cheesecake filling is the creamy layer that makes these rolls utterly addictive.
Step 3: Roll Out and Layer
Once your dough has doubled in size, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 16 by 12 inches. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough as a luscious base, then go over it with the cheesecake filling. Next, dollop and spread the strawberry preserves, sprinkle with fresh chopped strawberries, brown sugar, and cinnamon—the classic flavors that make this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe so unforgettable. Roll the dough up tightly from the long side, then slice into 12 even rolls.
Step 4: Second Rise and Bake
Arrange your rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, cover, and let them puff up again for another 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise is key to achieving those soft, lofty rolls. When they’re nice and puffy, bake in a 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes until they’re golden and irresistible.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
While the rolls bake, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, then mix in milk a little at a time until your frosting is perfectly smooth and spreadable. When the rolls come out warm from the oven, blanket them generously with this decadent frosting for that signature creamy finish.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
These rolls are showstoppers on their own, but if you want to elevate them, try topping with fresh strawberry slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A sprig of mint adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte to complement the warm cinnamon and sweet cream cheese frosting. Fresh fruit salad or a citrusy yogurt parfait makes a refreshing balance for this indulgent treat during brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board with little bowls of extra strawberry preserves and cream cheese frosting on the side. You can even serve individual rolls in pretty ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, Instagram-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying these rolls, be sure to cover leftovers tightly and store them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth anytime you want.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch ahead of time, you can freeze unbaked or baked rolls. For unbaked, wrap them tightly and freeze before the second rise, then thaw and let rise again before baking. For baked rolls, freeze after they have cooled completely, then thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To bring these rolls back to that just-baked warmth, microwave a roll for about 20–30 seconds or heat overnight refrigerated rolls in a 300°F oven covered with foil for 10–15 minutes until soft and gooey again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be a good substitute. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture that might make the rolls soggy.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, and the detailed instructions guide you through making the dough and filling, perfect for anyone new to baking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
With some substitutions like dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, you can tailor this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe to be dairy-free.
What can I use instead of strawberry preserves?
Strawberry compote or fresh strawberry sauce works wonderfully if you prefer a fresher, less sweet filling.
How can I make the rolls fluffier?
Ensure your yeast is active and the dough rises fully twice. Also, kneading properly develops gluten needed for that soft, fluffy texture.
Final Thoughts
Making these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is such a joyful experience and the results are pure bliss. They bring together so many beloved flavors in one warm, gooey package that’s perfect for treating yourself or impressing guests. Don’t wait to try this recipe—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
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Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these luscious Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls featuring a creamy cheesecake filling and a sweet strawberry layer. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls combine warm cinnamon, tangy cream cheese, and fresh strawberries to create a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ¾ cup strawberry preserves or jam
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast and Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foam forms on top, indicating the yeast is active. Whisk in eggs and melted butter until well combined.
- Mix and Knead Dough: Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: While the dough is rising, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside for later use.
- Roll Out Dough and Add Fillings: Once the dough has doubled, roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface. Next, spread the cheesecake filling across the dough. Then, evenly layer strawberry preserves, sprinkle chopped fresh strawberries, brown sugar, and cinnamon over the top.
- Form Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Slice the log into 12 equal-sized rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes until they become puffy.
- Bake Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Prepare Frosting: While rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Thin with milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven and still warm, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the tops. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute strawberry compote for the preserves to achieve a fresher strawberry flavor.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for best results.
