If you love cinnamon rolls and cheesecake, then these strawberry cheesecake cinnabon rolls are a must-try! Combining the fluffy, sweet dough of cinnamon rolls with a creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries, this dessert takes indulgence to a whole new level. The rolls are baked to golden perfection, with a warm, gooey center that’s bursting with the rich flavors of cream cheese and strawberries, and topped with a decadent cream cheese glaze. This recipe is perfect for a weekend breakfast, brunch gathering, or even as a sweet treat for special occasions.

The combination of soft, pillowy dough, tangy cheesecake filling, and sweet cinnamon sugar creates an unforgettable dessert experience. These strawberry cheesecake cinnabon rolls are not only a feast for the taste buds, but they also look beautiful, making them perfect for impressing your guests. Whether you’re serving them at a family brunch or enjoying them for a cozy treat, these rolls are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

You’ll love this recipe because it combines the best of both worlds: the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake and the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll. The dough is soft and fluffy, while the cheesecake filling is smooth and tangy, balanced perfectly with the sweetness of fresh strawberries and strawberry jam. When baked, the rolls become gooey and decadent, and the cream cheese glaze adds a finishing touch of sweetness. These strawberry cheesecake cinnabon rolls are indulgent yet comforting, making them an ideal dessert or breakfast treat for any occasion. Plus, the beautiful layers of fruit and cream cheese make them as much of a visual treat as a culinary one.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Instant yeast
Salt
Warm milk (about 110°F)
Unsalted butter, melted
Large egg

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries, finely chopped
Strawberry jam

For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

Unsalted butter, softened
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

Cream cheese, softened
Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Milk (as needed for consistency)

Variations

Berry Variations: If you prefer other berries, swap the strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different twist.
Chocolate Lovers: Add some chocolate chips to the filling for an extra indulgent treat. The combination of chocolate, cream cheese, and strawberries is irresistible.
Cinnamon Roll Swirl: If you prefer more cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar between the dough layers for a deeper cinnamon taste.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and almond milk to make these rolls vegan-friendly.

How to Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the finely chopped strawberries and strawberry jam. Set the filling aside.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will create a sweet, cinnamon-sugar swirl inside the rolls.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about 1 inch along the edges. Then, spread the strawberry cheesecake filling on top of the cinnamon sugar layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Carefully roll the dough up from the long edge to form a log.

Step 6: Slice the Rolls

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. Place the slices into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them so they are close together but not touching.

Step 7: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the baking dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before glazing.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the rolls are baking, make the glaze by beating together softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to get the desired consistency.

Step 10: Glaze the Rolls

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture in the filling. Make sure to finely chop them so they incorporate well into the cheesecake mixture.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can result in tough rolls. Be gentle when kneading and mixing to keep the dough light and fluffy.
Roll Evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness so the rolls bake uniformly.
Prevent Soggy Rolls: Avoid using too much strawberry jam in the filling to keep the rolls from becoming soggy. A little goes a long way.
Adjust Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it up to the desired pourable consistency.

How to Serve

These strawberry cheesecake cinnabon rolls are perfect on their own, but they’re even better when served warm with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. They make a fantastic breakfast treat, brunch dish, or dessert for a special occasion. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

To freeze the rolls, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or microwave them for 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, cover it and place it in the fridge overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Fresh strawberries yield the best texture and flavor, but frozen strawberries can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using.

3. Can I make these rolls without the cream cheese glaze?

Yes, the rolls are delicious even without the glaze, but the cream cheese glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

4. Can I use a different type of jam in the filling?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruit jams such as raspberry, blueberry, or apricot for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I prevent the rolls from being too sweet?

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar in the filling or glaze, or use less strawberry jam in the filling.

6. Can I make these rolls without yeast?

No, this recipe relies on yeast to create the light, fluffy texture of the rolls. If you want a quicker version, consider using a no-yeast dough recipe.

7. How do I make the rolls extra gooey?

For an extra gooey filling, increase the amount of strawberry jam or add a little cream cheese to the filling mixture.

8. Can I bake the rolls in a different size pan?

Yes, you can use a different size pan, but be sure to adjust the baking time. A larger pan will require less time, while a smaller pan may need a bit more time in the oven.

9. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be aware that the texture may vary slightly.

10. How do I keep the rolls from becoming too dry?

Make sure not to overbake the rolls. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven once they are golden brown to prevent them from drying out.

Conclusion

Strawberry cheesecake cinnabon rolls are a delectable treat that combines all your favorite flavors in one indulgent dish. The soft, fluffy dough, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet cinnamon swirl, all topped off with a rich cream cheese glaze, make for a dessert that’s truly irresistible. Whether for a special occasion or a treat just because, these rolls will surely become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and experience the perfect balance of fruity, creamy, and spiced flavors!

Related Posts: