If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts that combine rich, creamy cheesecake with the sweet, fluffy goodness of cinnamon rolls, then you are absolutely going to adore this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls filled with a luscious strawberry-infused cheesecake filling and topped with velvety cream cheese frosting, fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of strawberry syrup. This recipe transforms a classic favorite into a sensational treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making these for a special brunch or a decadent dessert, these rolls promise to wow anyone lucky enough to take a bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe are simple staples, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance. From the soft cream cheese that adds creaminess to fresh strawberries that bring a burst of freshness, every element comes together beautifully to create a true showstopper.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender base for the dough, essential for that soft, fluffy texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness, balancing flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast: The magic behind the dough’s rise and fluffiness.
- ¾ cup milk, warmed: Feeds the yeast and helps create a soft dough.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Provide structure and richness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling – creamy and tangy.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds silkiness to the filling and frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling with a smooth texture.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, comforting flavor.
- ½ cup strawberry jam (seedless preferred): Bursting with sweet strawberry flavor that complements the cream cheese.
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries: Adds freshness and slight texture contrast in the filling.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: For the luscious frosting that crowns the rolls.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensures the frosting is perfectly creamy and spreadable.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Helps adjust frosting to your ideal consistency.
- Fresh strawberries, sliced: For delightful garnish and added freshness.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Adds a subtle crunch and a hint of nostalgic flavor.
- Strawberry syrup: Drizzled on top for that extra strawberry kick and stunning presentation.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl, which forms the dry base of your dough. In another bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk and allow it to become foamy—this tells you the yeast is active and ready. Then mix in the melted butter and beaten eggs, creating the wet mixture. Combine both mixtures until a shaggy dough forms, before kneading on a floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling
While the dough is rising, whip together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending into a luscious base. Finally, fold in the strawberry jam and chopped fresh strawberries gently—this filling is where all the juicy, creamy magic comes together.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Once your dough has doubled, gently punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12 by 18 inches. Spread your vibrant strawberry cheesecake filling evenly, leaving a small border along one edge. Starting from the opposite side, roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the seam to keep all that filling inside. Use a serrated knife or clean dental floss to slice the log into 12 equal rolls.
Step 4: Let the Rolls Rise Again
Place the rolls snugly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover them, and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until they puff up beautifully, setting the stage for that perfect oven spring.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove and let them cool slightly in the dish to prepare for frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Then, add milk a tablespoon at a time until the frosting has the perfect spreadable consistency to coat your warm rolls.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish the Rolls
Spread the frosting liberally over the warm rolls for that irresistible gooeyness. Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for a subtle crunch, and a drizzle of strawberry syrup to make everything gleam like a work of art.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries sliced on top bring vibrant color and a juicy pop that contrasts beautifully with the rich frosting. Graham cracker crumbs add a delicate crunch and a hint of buttery sweetness that elevates the overall flavor profile. A careful drizzle of strawberry syrup not only enhances the strawberry notes but also creates a visually stunning finish that will impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve these rolls alongside a light and refreshing fruit salad or a glass of chilled sparkling lemonade to balance the richness. A simple whipped cream or vanilla ice cream can also complement the rolls for an extra indulgent touch. These pairings let the strawberry cheesecake rolls shine as the star, while adding layers of texture and flavor to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving each roll on a small dessert plate lined with a drizzle of strawberry syrup underneath, creating a pretty “plate canvas.” You can also stack the rolls in a tiered dessert tray for an elegant presentation at brunch or a gathering. For a fun twist, place the rolls in individual ramekins before baking for personalized servings that look adorable and are super practical for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness. If your kitchen is warm, storing in the fridge helps keep the cream cheese frosting fresh but slightly affects the texture, so bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze both the unbaked rolls and the baked ones. Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag, freezing for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and allow to rise before baking. For baked rolls, wrap individually with cling film and foil before freezing, and thaw on the counter before reheating.
Reheating
Warm your rolls gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave on low power for 20-30 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. Adding a touch more frosting or fresh strawberries after reheating brings them back to their irresistible best.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain any excess liquid to avoid soggy filling. The flavor will still be lovely, especially if you use high-quality jam as well.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan butter to make these rolls dairy-free without losing much of the deliciousness.
Can I prepare the rolls the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, place them in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
What if I don’t have strawberry syrup for garnish?
No worries! You can simply use extra strawberry jam warmed up as a drizzle or even a light dusting of powdered sugar for a classic touch. It won’t diminish the fantastic flavor.
Can these rolls be made gluten-free?
Yes, but you’ll need a gluten-free baking flour mix that includes xanthan gum or other binding agents. Note that the texture might be slightly denser, but they will still satisfy your strawberry cheesecake cravings.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is a real game-changer in the world of sweet treats. It’s a beautiful balance of creamy, fruity, and fluffy that’s surprisingly approachable to bake at home. Whether you’re impressing friends, enjoying a family weekend, or simply treating yourself, these rolls promise to bring joy and smiles with every bite. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover how wonderfully comforting and delicious homemade strawberry cheesecake rolls can be!
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Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are a decadent and delightful dessert that combines fluffy cinnamon roll dough with a creamy strawberry cheesecake filling. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, fresh strawberries, graham cracker crumbs, and strawberry syrup, they make the perfect indulgent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup milk, warmed to 110-115°F
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Strawberry Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup strawberry jam (high-quality, seedless preferred)
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Strawberry syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk and let it stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add the melted butter and beaten eggs to the yeast mixture and whisk to combine. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Gently fold in strawberry jam and chopped fresh strawberries until evenly combined.
- Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Turn it onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the strawberry cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, leaving a border along one long edge. Starting from the opposite edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss. Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before frosting.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Add milk one tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm rolls. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices, graham cracker crumbs, and strawberry syrup if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, fruity dessert.
Notes
- Use seedless strawberry jam for a smoother filling texture.
- Room temperature ingredients help with better dough and frosting consistency.
- For best results, allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment.
- Cut rolls evenly for uniform baking and presentation.
- Leftover rolls can be stored covered at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerated and reheated gently.
