If you have a sweet tooth and love classic cinnamon rolls with a fruity, creamy twist, you are going to adore this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe. Imagine pillowy soft dough swirled with a luscious strawberry cream cheese filling, kissed by cinnamon and brown sugar, and topped with a smooth, tangy strawberry glaze. This delightful treat feels like a warm hug on a plate and brings a burst of fresh berry flavor that perfectly complements the richness of cheesecake. It’s my go-to indulgence for brunches, special occasions, or any time you want to turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this recipe come together simply yet beautifully, each playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. You’ll find that familiar pantry staples mingle with fresh strawberries and cream cheese to make this a standout cinnamon roll experience.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your soft, fluffy dough, providing just the right structure.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that enhances the dough and filling.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast: The magic ingredient that makes your rolls rise and become airy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavor of all other ingredients.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F): Keeps the yeast happy and helps create tender dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Gives the dough structure and a beautiful golden color.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Essential for that dreamy cheesecake texture in the filling.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped: Brings juicy sweetness and vibrant color to the filling.
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam: Intensifies that fresh strawberry taste and keeps the filling moist.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: For the cinnamon-sugar spread that creates caramelized layers.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor to the cinnamon swirl.
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: The classic spice that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: For the luscious cream cheese frosting.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Gives creaminess to the frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- 2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency): Helps you achieve the ideal frosting texture.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Warm the milk to about 110°F and stir in the melted butter and egg. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, kneading until you get a smooth and elastic dough. This step is crucial for developing the perfect base that will rise beautifully and yield soft, fluffy rolls.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it has doubled in size. This resting time allows the yeast to work its magic, creating that airy texture we all crave in cinnamon rolls.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Strawberry Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by blending softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, finely chopped fresh strawberries, and strawberry jam until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what makes the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe truly special—rich, tangy, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor.
Step 4: Roll Out and Spread
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 16 by 12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top. Finally, dollop the strawberry cream cheese filling and gently spread it to cover the cinnamon sugar layer.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Begin at the long edge and roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the roll into 12 equal pieces. This step creates those beautiful spirals filled with layers of cinnamon goodness and strawberry cheesecake richness.
Step 6: Final Rise and Bake
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between each. Cover again and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting and Glaze
While the rolls bake, whip together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to make a smooth frosting. Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, lavish them generously with this strawberry-scented cream cheese glaze for an unforgettable final touch.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh sliced strawberries or a few whole berries on top adds a burst of color and freshness. You can also dust the rolls lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant, bakery-style finish that’s sure to impress.
Side Dishes
These rolls are a star on their own but pairing them with a cup of rich coffee, a creamy latte, or a glass of cold milk elevates the experience. For brunch, consider serving alongside fresh fruit salad or scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness with some savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Make mini versions for a party platter or bake the rolls in individual ramekins for a charming personal treat. Another fun idea is to layer the rolls in a trifle dish with whipped cream and crushed graham crackers to create a decadent strawberry cheesecake-inspired dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for 2 to 3 days and can be gently reheated to recapture that just-baked softness.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping them by wrapping the pan securely with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge, let them rise, and then bake as usual. Baked rolls freeze well too—store them in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, microwave individual rolls for 20 to 30 seconds or heat them in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. Adding a little extra frosting after reheating brings back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries in the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries when possible because they hold up better in texture and flavor. If frozen is your only option, thaw and drain them well to avoid adding too much moisture to the filling.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I’m allergic?
For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Just make sure it’s softened before mixing so it blends nicely with the other ingredients in the filling and frosting.
How long can I let the dough rise?
Allowing the dough to double in size is key, typically around 1 hour for the first rise and 30 minutes after shaping. If you need more time, the dough can rise slowly in the fridge overnight, which also enhances the flavor.
Can I make the rolls vegan?
Yes! Replace the dairy and egg with vegan-friendly alternatives such as plant milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs. Using vegan cream cheese will complete this plant-based twist while staying true to the spirit of the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe.
What’s the best way to chop strawberries for the filling?
Finely chopping the strawberries helps distribute their flavor evenly throughout the filling and prevents the rolls from becoming soggy. Aim for small, uniform pieces so that every bite is deliciously balanced.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe enough if you want to wow your friends and family with something truly special. The interplay of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and cinnamon-spiced dough is pure magic. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become one of your all-time favorite homemade treats. So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and enjoy every heavenly bite!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, combining the fluffy, soft texture of classic cinnamon rolls with a luscious strawberry cheesecake filling. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting infused with strawberry jam, these rolls make a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert lovers seeking a fruity twist on a beloved pastry.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
- 2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the cheesecake filling: While the dough is rising, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and finely chopped fresh strawberries in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Set this aside in the refrigerator to keep chilled.
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar filling: In another bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until thoroughly combined. This fragrant mixture will add the classic cinnabon flavor to the rolls.
- Roll out the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle approximately 16 by 12 inches.
- Assemble the rolls: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the rolled dough, then dollop and spread the cinnamon sugar butter mixture on top. Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log shape. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls and place them cut side up into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the frosting and serve: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and strawberry jam until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with milk as needed. Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in the cheesecake filling; frozen strawberries can add too much moisture.
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it, allowing a slow overnight rise for enhanced flavor.
- Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- For added strawberry flavor, drizzle some extra strawberry jam over the frosted rolls just before serving.
