Get ready to transform your brunch table or dessert spread with these truly decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls! We're talking about the soft, pillowy texture of a classic cinnamon roll, generously swirled with a creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling, bursting with sweet strawberries, and then crowned with a luscious strawberry glaze. This isn't just a treat; it's a celebration of flavors!
There's something magical about homemade cinnamon rolls, and when you infuse them with the irresistible tang and richness of cheesecake and the bright sweetness of fresh strawberries, you create an experience that's simply unforgettable. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just want to brighten a regular day, these rolls are a guaranteed showstopper that will have everyone asking for more.
Why You'll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Flavor Fusion Perfection: The marriage of warm cinnamon, tangy cream cheese, and sweet strawberries is an absolute dream.
- Irresistible Texture: Expect incredibly soft, fluffy rolls with a rich, velvety filling in every bite.
- Beautiful Presentation: These vibrant rolls look as amazing as they taste, making them perfect for sharing.
- Comfort in Every Bite: There’s a warmth and richness that makes these rolls pure comfort food, ideal for any time of year.
Creating these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls is a fun and rewarding baking adventure. Here’s what you’ll need to get started!
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Soft, Fluffy Rolls:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (warmed to 105-115°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
For the Delicious Cheesecake Filling:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen, chopped)
For the Sweet Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh strawberries (pureed)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Heavenly Rolls
Don't be intimidated by working with yeast! It's a forgiving process, and the result is so worth it. For extra confidence, you can find many helpful yeast bread baking tips online to guide you.
Step 1: Begin with the Dough
- Step 1: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of the all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, the active dry yeast, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, gently warm the milk to about 105-115°F. Stir in the melted unsalted butter and the large egg until everything is well combined.
- Step 3: Gradually add the liquid mixture to your dry ingredients, mixing with a sturdy wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook until a rough, shaggy dough forms. If it feels too sticky, incorporate the remaining 1/4 cup of flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is pliable.
Step 2: Knead and Let it Rise
- Step 4: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for about 5-7 minutes, or use a stand mixer for 3-5 minutes, until your dough is smooth and elastic.
- Step 5: Lightly grease a clean large bowl. Place the kneaded dough inside, turning once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it has visibly doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Luscious Filling
- Step 6: While your dough is rising, prepare the creamy cheesecake filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. Gently fold in your chopped fresh or thawed strawberries.
Step 4: Assemble Your Rolls
- Step 7: Once your dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 12x16 inches.
- Step 8: Evenly spread the prepared cream cheese and strawberry mixture over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough, making sure to leave a small 1/2-inch border along one of the long edges.
- Step 9: Starting from the long edge opposite the plain border, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a snug log. Pinch the seam firmly to seal it closed.
Step 5: Cut, Second Rise, and Bake
- Step 10: Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices, each about 1.5 inches thick. Arrange these slices in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Step 11: Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise again in a warm place for another 30 minutes, or until they appear puffy.
- Step 12: While the rolls are completing their second rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 13: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through to the center.
Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
- Step 14: As the rolls bake or cool slightly, prepare your vibrant strawberry glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pureed strawberries. Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve your desired smooth, drizzly consistency.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve Warm
- Step 15: Once the rolls have cooled for a few minutes out of the oven, generously drizzle the homemade strawberry glaze over the top.
- Step 16: Serve your incredible Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls warm and savor every delightful bite!
Creative Variations & Insider Tips
This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Berry Medley: Experiment with other berry combinations like blueberries or raspberries in the filling for a different fruity twist.
- Zesty Kick: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling and a hint to the glaze for an extra bright flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts folded into the filling can add a delightful textural contrast.
- Cinnamon Roll Mania: If you're a true cinnamon roll enthusiast, you might also adore our Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for another incredible dessert experience.
- More Strawberry Cheesecake Goodness: For another fantastic strawberry cheesecake treat, be sure to check out our Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!
Storing Your Rolls for Later
While these rolls are best fresh, they can be enjoyed later too!
- Storage: Keep any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Unglazed rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Glazed rolls can also be frozen, though the glaze might become slightly softer upon thawing.
- Reheating: For individual rolls, microwave for 15-30 seconds. For a batch, cover loosely with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Enjoy Your Sweet Masterpiece!
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are more than just a recipe; they are a delightful way to bring joy and incredible flavors to your kitchen. The combination of tender, sweet dough with a creamy, fruity filling and a bright glaze is simply irresistible. Happy baking!
FAQs
How can I make my Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls extra fluffy?
For the fluffiest rolls, ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date and that your milk is warmed to the correct temperature (105-115u00b0F). Also, allow ample time for both rises in a warm, draft-free spot. Over-kneading can also lead to tough rolls, so stop once the dough is smooth and elastic.
Can I use different fruits in the cheesecake filling?
Absolutely! While strawberries are divine, you can easily swap them for other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend. Just make sure to chop them finely and, if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.
What's the best way to store and reheat leftover rolls?
Store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 15-30 seconds or warm a batch in a 300u00b0F (150u00b0C) oven, covered loosely with foil, for 10-15 minutes.
Can these rolls be prepared ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise (Step 11). Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before baking as directed.
Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls generously filled with a creamy strawberry cheesecake mixture and topped with a luscious strawberry glaze.
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk (warm, about 105-115°F)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 large egg
1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for filling)
1/2 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen, chopped)
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
2 tablespoons fresh strawberries (pureed)
1-2 tablespoons milk (to thin glaze)
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of the all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly.
Step 2: In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the milk until it reaches approximately 105-115°F (30-40 seconds in the microwave). Stir in the melted unsalted butter and the large egg until well combined.
Step 3: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add the remaining 1/4 cup of flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it's manageable.
Step 4: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough by hand for about 5-7 minutes, or with a stand mixer for 3-5 minutes, until it's smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Lightly grease a large bowl with cooking spray or butter. Place the kneaded dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Step 6: While the dough is rising, prepare the luscious filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the chopped fresh or thawed frozen strawberries.
Step 7: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 12x16 inches.
Step 8: Evenly spread the prepared cream cheese and strawberry mixture over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small 1/2-inch border along one of the long edges.
Step 9: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam firmly to seal it closed.
Step 10: Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices (about 1.5 inches each). Arrange the slices in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 11: Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise again in a warm place for another 30 minutes, or until they look puffy.
Step 12: While the rolls are on their second rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 13: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
Step 14: While the rolls are baking or cooling slightly, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pureed strawberries. Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired drizzly consistency.
Step 15: Once the rolls have cooled for a few minutes out of the oven, generously drizzle the homemade strawberry glaze over the top.
Step 16: Serve your amazing Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls warm and enjoy every single bite!
Notes
Ensure your cream cheese is softened and milk is warm for best results. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them completely before use. These rolls are fantastic for meal prepping by freezing them unglazed.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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