Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe combines the beloved cinnamon roll with rich cheesecake and fresh strawberries, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert. The soft, fluffy dough is filled with creamy cheesecake goodness and topped with sweet strawberries, creating an indulgent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy night in, these rolls are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberries makes every bite delightful.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—these rolls fit any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers and vibrant strawberry topping make these rolls a showstopper.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh rolls when you’re ready to enjoy!

Tools and Preparation

To make the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls successfully, gather your tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric Mixer: Saves time and ensures a smooth cheesecake filling.
• Rolling Pin: Helps in achieving the perfect dough thickness for rolling.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch size ensures even baking for all rolls.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

The dough is the base of your rolls and needs to be soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet. For this, you’ll need:
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarm
2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

This will add the creamy, tangy element to your rolls, making them irresistibly indulgent:
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

The classic cinnamon sugar filling gives these rolls that familiar Cinnabon flavor:
1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Strawberry Topping:

Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color to the rolls:
1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

A creamy icing that complements the rich rolls:
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons whole milk, as needed for consistency
Pinch of salt

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and yeast. Stir to dissolve. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center; add yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough starts to form.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, add more flour carefully.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Form dough into a ball; place in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or towel; let rise in warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 5: Blend the Cream Cheese

While dough rises, prepare cheesecake filling. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.

Step 6: Add Other Ingredients

Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Beat until fully combined; set aside.

Step 7: Make Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside for assembly.

Step 8: Prepare Butter

Soften butter until spreadable but not melted.

Step 9: Roll Out Dough

After rising, punch down gently. Turn out onto floured surface; roll into a rectangle about 16 inches by 12 inches.

Step 10: Spread Butter

Use pastry brush or back of spoon to spread softened butter over dough; leave small border around edges.

Step 11: Add Cheesecake Filling

Spoon cheesecake mixture over buttered dough; spread evenly without reaching edges.

Step 12: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

Evenly sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture over cheesecake layer.

Step 13: Roll Up Dough

Starting from long edge, roll dough into tight log. Pinch seam to seal.

Step 14: Cut Rolls

Use sharp knife or dental floss to cut into 12 equal rolls. Place in greased baking dish close but not touching.

Step 15: Let Rolls Rise

Cover loosely with plastic wrap or towel; let rise for about 30-45 minutes until puffed up.

Step 16: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) while rolls rise.

Step 17: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.

Step 18: Cool Slightly

Remove from oven; cool for about 10 minutes before icing.

Step 19: Mix Icing

Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract; gradually add milk until smooth consistency is reached.

Step 20: Drizzle or Spread

Once cooled slightly, drizzle or spread icing over warm rolls so it melts slightly into them.

Step 21: Slice Strawberries

Slice fresh strawberries thinly; toss with sugar if desired.

Step 22: Top Rolls

Arrange sliced strawberries on top of rolls; their sweetness balances the rich fillings perfectly!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Fresh Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the rolls and enhances the flavors. Choose a rich brew or a flavored coffee to match the dessert.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Adding a dollop of whipped cream on top adds an extra layer of creaminess and lightness. It’s perfect for those who enjoy an indulgent touch.

Add Extra Strawberries

• Fresh strawberries can be served alongside or on top of the rolls, enhancing their fruity flavor. Drizzle them with honey for added sweetness.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• For a decadent dessert, serve warm rolls topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm and cold creates a delightful contrast.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the icing adds richness and depth. This is ideal for chocolate lovers looking for an extra treat.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Perfecting your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls come out perfectly every time.

• Use Lukewarm Milk: Make sure your milk is lukewarm when activating yeast. This helps it bloom properly, ensuring a fluffy dough.

• Don’t Rush the Rising Time: Allow enough time for the dough to rise fully. This step is crucial for achieving soft and airy rolls.

• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives structure to your rolls.

• Be Gentle When Rolling: Roll the dough gently but tightly when forming the log. This technique keeps the filling intact and creates nice swirls in each roll.

• Adjust Baking Time as Needed: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your rolls while baking. Remove them when they’re golden brown to prevent overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

To create a complete meal around your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, consider pairing them with these delicious side dishes. Each offers unique flavors that complement this sweet treat well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries adds protein and crunch, making it a wholesome addition to your meal.

3. Breakfast Sausages: Savory breakfast sausages offer a nice contrast to the sweet rolls, making for a balanced plate.

4. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and pair well with sweet pastries, creating a satisfying breakfast or brunch spread.

5. Smoothie Bowl: A fruit smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds makes for a refreshing side that complements the richness of the rolls.

6. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness to your meal, balancing out the sweetness from the rolls nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the yeast activation: Always activate your yeast with lukewarm milk. If you skip this step, your rolls may not rise properly.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can make the rolls tough instead of soft and fluffy.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar. Too much or too little can affect texture and flavor.
• Rolling the dough too thin: Ensure your dough is rolled to the right thickness (about 1/4 inch). If it’s too thin, it won’t hold the filling well.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Preheat your oven correctly. Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking or burnt rolls.
• Ignoring cooling time before icing: Let the rolls cool slightly before adding icing. This helps prevent it from melting away completely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each roll for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning!

What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

You can substitute with instant yeast using the same amount, but there’s no need to activate it first.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using them as a topping.

How do I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe?

Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or other fruits like blueberries for a unique twist on this classic treat!

What is the best way to store leftover rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them if you want to keep them longer.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are a wonderful treat that combines rich flavors and textures into one delicious bite. They are perfect for breakfast or dessert and can be customized with various toppings or fillings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe — your taste buds will thank you!