Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds—sweet strawberries and creamy cheesecake—then these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are just the thing! This recipe has become a favorite in my home, not only for its delicious flavor but also for its comforting warmth that wraps you like a cozy hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cheerful family gathering, these rolls bring smiles all around.

The beauty of these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls is how they effortlessly transition from breakfast to dessert. They’re perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or as a sweet surprise after dinner. Once you smell them baking, you’ll understand why this recipe is so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These rolls come together easily, even if you’re new to baking! The simple steps will have you feeling like a pro in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls! Add strawberries and cheesecake, and you’ve got a winning combination that kids and adults alike will adore.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready. Perfect for those busy mornings!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of strawberries, cream cheese, and cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Great for Any Occasion: From brunches to celebrations, these rolls are sure to be the star of any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls use simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for this scrumptious treat!

For the Dough

• 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

For the Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup strawberry jam
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your flavors and fillings. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Different Fruits: Swap out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a berry medley that’s equally delicious.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Instead of mixing the cream cheese filling together, create swirls by dolloping it onto the dough before rolling it up.
• Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling for an added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients well is essential as it helps evenly distribute the yeast throughout the dough. In another bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, and egg until fully combined. Gradually add this wet mixture into your dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead Your Dough

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten which gives your rolls structure and chewiness—trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about an hour. This step is crucial as it allows air pockets to form in your dough, making those rolls fluffy.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While waiting for your dough to rise, whip up your cheesecake filling! In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, chopped strawberries, and strawberry jam until smooth. This luscious filling will make each bite heavenly!

Step 5: Roll Out Your Dough

Once your dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the surface followed by an even layer of your cheesecake filling.

Step 6: Sprinkle with Cinnamon-Sugar

In another small bowl, mix brown sugar with ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this delightful mixture generously over the filled dough—this is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Roll Up and Slice

Carefully roll up your dough tightly from one end to another into a log shape. Slice into equal pieces using sharp knife or dental floss (for clean cuts!). Arrange these slices in a greased baking dish.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover your sliced rolls again with a towel and let them rise once more until they puff up—about 30 minutes. This final rise ensures they’ll be delightfully soft when baked.

Step 9: Bake Them Up

Preheat your oven while waiting! Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 10: Drizzle with Glaze

While they cool slightly after baking, prepare your cream cheese glaze by mixing softened cream cheese with butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach desired consistency. Drizzle this over those warm rolls before serving—they’ll look irresistible!

And there you have it! A batch of homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls that are sure to impress anyone who gets their hands on them! Enjoy every bite with loved ones—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Baking these delightful rolls is a wonderful way to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen! Here are some tips to ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls turn out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing, resulting in a fluffy dough that rises beautifully.
• Don’t rush the rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly develops flavor and texture, making your rolls light and airy. Find a warm spot in your kitchen for best results!
• Chop strawberries finely: Smaller pieces of strawberries distribute more evenly throughout the filling, ensuring each bite has that delicious strawberry flavor without overwhelming the dough.
• Monitor baking time closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your rolls during baking. You want them golden brown but not overdone; this will maintain their soft texture.
• Adjust glaze consistency: If your cream cheese glaze is too thick, add a bit more milk until it reaches a drizzle-able consistency. A perfect glaze enhances the overall presentation and taste!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Serving these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls is all about presentation and pairing them with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
• Sliced strawberries: Scatter some fresh sliced strawberries on top or around the plate for an inviting look and added fruity flavor.

Side Dishes

• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs complement the sweetness of the rolls while providing a savory balance to your meal.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a refreshing side that pairs well with the richness of the cinnamon rolls.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, making it a perfect counterpoint to the decadent rolls.
• Coffee or tea: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy brunch experience. The warmth enhances flavors and creates a comforting atmosphere.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll be all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat on busy mornings or after a long day. With just a little planning, you can savor the goodness of these rolls whenever the craving strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• After baking and cooling, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let the rolls thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from room temperature, simply warm them for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls:

Can I use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls?

Yes! You can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How do I ensure my Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls turn out fluffy?

To achieve fluffy rolls, make sure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly with warm milk. Additionally, let your dough rise until it has doubled in size.

Can I prepare Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, then assemble and bake when you’re ready.

What’s the best way to store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are not just a recipe; they’re an experience that brings warmth and sweetness into any gathering. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or saved for later indulgence, they truly shine as a delightful treat. I hope you enjoy making these rolls as much as I do! Happy baking!