Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls combine several beloved treats into one deliciously indulgent dessert or breakfast. By blending the soft, buttery texture of a cinnamon roll with the rich and creamy tang of cheesecake and the freshness of strawberries, this recipe takes traditional cinnamon rolls to a whole new level.

While making homemade cinnamon rolls might seem like a daunting task, this recipe breaks down each step, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked rolls wafting through the house, and these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of sweet, baked goods.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and the yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Mix the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough starts to form. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands at this stage.
3. Knead the Dough
   Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much as you want a soft, tender dough.
4. Let the Dough Rise
   Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. Blend the Cream Cheese
   While the dough is rising, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Other Ingredients
   Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Beat everything together until fully combined and smooth. Set aside for assembly.

Step 3: Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

1. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
   In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set this aside, ready for the roll assembly.
2. Prepare the Butter
   Soften the butter (you can microwave it for a few seconds or let it sit at room temperature) until it’s spreadable, but not melted.

Step 4: Assembling the Rolls

1. Roll Out the Dough
   After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 16 inches by 12 inches (40 cm x 30 cm).
2. Spread the Butter
   Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Add the Cheesecake Filling
   Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the buttered dough, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Be careful not to go all the way to the edges to prevent it from spilling out during baking.
4. Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar
   Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cheesecake layer.
5. Roll Up the Dough
   Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once you have the full roll, pinch the seam to seal it.
6. Cut the Rolls
   Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the dough into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized dish, ensuring they’re close but not touching.
7. Let the Rolls Rise
   Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and touching each other.

Step 5: Baking the Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.
2. Bake
   Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. If they start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.
3. Cool Slightly
   Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before adding the icing and strawberry topping.

Step 6: Preparing the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Mix the Icing
   In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the milk until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
2. Drizzle or Spread
   Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle or spread the icing over the warm rolls. The warmth of the rolls will help the icing melt slightly, creating a luscious, creamy topping.

Step 7: Preparing the Strawberry Topping

1. Slice the Strawberries
   Slice the fresh strawberries thinly, then toss them with a tablespoon of sugar if you like them extra sweet.
2. Top the Rolls
   Gently arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the rolls. The sweetness of the strawberries balances the richness of the cheesecake and cinnamon filling, creating a perfect flavor combination.

Tips and Tricks

• Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too sticky, add flour in small increments until it becomes manageable. On the other hand, if it’s too dry, add a little bit of milk.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened before making the filling and icing. This will ensure everything mixes together smoothly.
• Freezing Option: If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, you can assemble them and freeze them before baking. Simply cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, let them rise at room temperature for about 1 hour before baking as directed.
• Test Doneness: The rolls should be golden brown and feel soft to the touch. If they’re underbaked, they might be doughy in the middle, so check with a toothpick or your finger to ensure they’re cooked through.

Variations

• Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls: Swap the strawberries for fresh blueberries for a different twist.
• Nutella Swirl: Add a layer of Nutella under the cheesecake filling for a chocolatey surprise.
• Peach or Mango: For a tropical version, replace the strawberries with fresh peach or mango slices.

Advanced Tips for Perfecting Your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

While the basic steps are fairly straightforward, there are a few advanced techniques and tips to ensure your rolls are absolutely perfect every time.

1. Dough Temperature and Rising

One common challenge when making cinnamon rolls (or any yeast-based dough) is ensuring that the dough rises correctly. Temperature plays a significant role here.

• Ideal Yeast Activation: Make sure the water or milk you use for the yeast is lukewarm, about 100-110°F (37-43°C). If it’s too hot, it could kill the yeast, and if it’s too cold, the yeast will remain dormant.
• First Rise: After you’ve kneaded your dough and formed it into a ball, place it in a lightly greased bowl. For the best results, create a warm, draft-free environment for the dough to rise. You can preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) for 1-2 minutes, then turn it off and place your dough inside to rise.

  Alternatively, place the bowl near a warm window or in a room with a warm, consistent temperature. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to trap in the heat.

• Second Rise: Once the dough has been cut into rolls and placed in the baking pan, let them rise again. This final rise is critical for a light, fluffy texture. If you’re in a rush, you can allow for a shorter second rise, but for maximum fluffiness, give them the full 30-45 minutes.

2. Baking the Rolls to Perfection

When baking rolls, timing and temperature are key to ensuring they are golden brown without becoming too dry or doughy.

• Baking Temperature: A temperature of 350°F (175°C) works well for these rolls. It’s hot enough to brown the tops without over-baking the insides. However, every oven is different, so start checking the rolls at 25 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.
• Doneness Check: You can use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature of the rolls. If it reads around 190°F (88°C), the rolls are fully baked and will be soft and tender inside.

3. Icing Texture and Flavor Adjustment

The cream cheese icing is arguably the most indulgent part of the roll, and its consistency can really make or break the experience. Here are some tips to perfect the icing:

• Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure that your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If it’s cold, it won’t blend smoothly and could create lumps.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on how sweet or tangy you like your icing, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar and sour cream or milk. If you prefer a tangier icing, use a little less powdered sugar and add a touch more cream cheese.
• Flavored Icing: To enhance the flavor of the icing, you can add a splash of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a few drops of lemon juice for a zesty twist.

4. Troubleshooting the Dough

If your dough doesn’t come out perfectly, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• If the dough is too sticky: Add flour a tablespoon at a time until the dough reaches a soft, but non-sticky consistency. Remember, a dough that’s too dry will result in dense rolls, so only add enough flour to make the dough workable.
• If the dough is too dry: Add more milk, a tablespoon at a time. Be cautious, as too much liquid can make the dough difficult to handle. If this happens, knead the dough until it absorbs the liquid.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion.

1. For Breakfast or Brunch

Serve them warm, fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or your favorite tea. They are perfect for leisurely mornings, especially when paired with a refreshing fruit salad or scrambled eggs.

2. As a Dessert

These rolls also work beautifully as a dessert, particularly if you’re entertaining guests or celebrating a special occasion. To elevate the experience, you can top the rolls with a drizzle of caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.

3. With a Side of Fruit

Although the rolls are already topped with strawberries, you can serve them alongside additional fresh fruit such as sliced bananas, raspberries, or blueberries to balance out the richness of the cream cheese filling.

Freezing Rolls

If you want to freeze the rolls for later, here’s what you need to do:

• Before Baking: Once the rolls are assembled but before they’re baked, you can freeze them. Arrange them in your baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake them, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then let them rise for an hour before baking.
• After Baking: If you have already baked the rolls, they can be frozen as well. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, allow them to thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until they are heated through.

Reheating Rolls

For the best texture, always reheat rolls in the oven, not the microwave. The oven helps restore the softness and gives the rolls a freshly baked texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can microwave the rolls for 20-30 seconds, but they may lose some of their fluffiness.

Possible Variations to Experiment With

Although the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are absolutely divine as is, there are countless variations you can try. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls

• Replace the strawberries with fresh blueberries or a blueberry compote. This will give your rolls a fresh, tart contrast to the rich cheesecake filling. You could even fold a handful of berries directly into the cheesecake filling for extra flavor.

2. Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Rolls

• Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon-sugar mixture or fold them into the cheesecake filling. This will create a fun, chocolatey twist on your classic cinnamon rolls.

3. Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Rolls

• Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and drizzle the rolls with a salted caramel sauce after baking. This adds a crunchy, nutty element to the soft rolls, while the caramel brings richness and sweetness.

4. Nutella Cheesecake Rolls

• Spread a thin layer of Nutella over the dough before adding the cheesecake filling. The hazelnut chocolate spread will melt into the rolls, giving them a deliciously gooey, chocolatey flavor.

5. Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Rolls

• Replace the cinnamon sugar with a mixture of cinnamon and finely chopped cooked apples. Toss the apples with a little sugar and cinnamon before layering them into the dough, creating a warm and comforting combination of cinnamon, cream cheese, and apple.

6. Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls

• Add some lemon zest to the cheesecake filling, and substitute the strawberries with fresh blueberries. A fresh burst of lemon will add a tangy freshness that perfectly complements the blueberries and cream cheese.

7. Vegan and Dairy-Free Adaptations

• Dough: Replace the milk with almond or oat milk, and use a plant-based butter. For the egg, you can use a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement.
• Cream Cheese: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and coconut-based sour cream for the cheesecake filling.
• Icing: Make a simple icing with powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and dairy-free cream cheese.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are a delightful fusion of two beloved baked goods: cinnamon rolls and cheesecake. With a few key steps and a bit of patience, you can create a dessert or breakfast treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Whether you choose to enjoy them fresh from the oven or reheat them for a cozy breakfast the next day, these rolls are versatile, indulgent, and delicious. The combination of soft, fluffy dough, rich cheesecake filling, warm cinnamon sugar, and fresh strawberries (or your favorite topping) makes every bite a little piece of heaven.

By following this recipe and applying some of the additional tips, you’ll be able to make perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls every time. Enjoy the baking process, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious end result!

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors. From the soft, buttery dough to the decadent cheesecake filling and fresh strawberry topping, every bite is a little bit of heaven. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or as a treat for yourself, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!

Yield: 12 Rolls

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

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Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls combine several beloved treats into one deliciously indulgent dessert or breakfast. By blending the soft, buttery texture of a cinnamon roll with the rich and creamy tang of cheesecake and the freshness of strawberries, this recipe takes traditional cinnamon rolls to a whole new level.

Dough Preparation & Rising Time 1 hour

Cook Time 30 minutes

Filling Preparation Time 20 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes

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, but we’ll enhance it with the cheesecake filling and strawberries:
• 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, creating a lovely contrast with the rich cheesecake filling:
• 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• For the Cream Cheese Icing:
• A creamy, tangy icing that complements the rich, sweet 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

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the YeastIn a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and the yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Mix the DoughIn a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough starts to form. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands at this stage.
3. Knead the DoughOnce the dough comes together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much as you want a soft, tender dough.
4. Let the Dough RiseForm the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. Blend the Cream CheeseWhile the dough is rising, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Other IngredientsAdd the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Beat everything together until fully combined and smooth. Set aside for assembly.

Step 3: Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

1. Make the Cinnamon Sugar MixtureIn a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set this aside, ready for the roll assembly.
2. Prepare the ButterSoften the butter (you can microwave it for a few seconds or let it sit at room temperature) until it’s spreadable, but not melted.

Step 4: Assembling the Rolls

1. Roll Out the DoughAfter the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 16 inches by 12 inches (40 cm x 30 cm).
2. Spread the ButterUsing a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Add the Cheesecake FillingSpoon the cheesecake mixture over the buttered dough, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Be careful not to go all the way to the edges to prevent it from spilling out during baking.
4. Sprinkle the Cinnamon SugarEvenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cheesecake layer.
5. Roll Up the DoughStarting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once you have the full roll, pinch the seam to seal it.
6. Cut the RollsUse a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the dough into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized dish, ensuring they’re close but not touching.
7. Let the Rolls RiseCover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and touching each other.

Step 5: Baking the Rolls

1. Preheat the OvenPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.
2. BakeOnce the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. If they start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.
3. Cool SlightlyRemove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before adding the icing and strawberry topping.

Step 6: Preparing the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Mix the IcingIn a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the milk until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
2. Drizzle or SpreadOnce the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle or spread the icing over the warm rolls. The warmth of the rolls will help the icing melt slightly, creating a luscious, creamy topping.

Step 7: Preparing the Strawberry Topping

1. Slice the StrawberriesSlice the fresh strawberries thinly, then toss them with a tablespoon of sugar if you like them extra sweet.
2. Top the RollsGently arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the rolls. The sweetness of the strawberries balances the richness of the cheesecake and cinnamon filling, creating a perfect flavor combination.

Notes

Dough Rising Time: The first rise for the dough typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the temperature of your kitchen. Make sure your dough is kept in a warm, draft-free spot to rise efficiently.

Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast is fresh. If your yeast doesn’t foam after 5-10 minutes when mixed with warm milk, it may be expired and you’ll need to use fresh yeast for the recipe.

Softening Ingredients: For the best results, make sure the cream cheese, butter, and sour cream are softened before mixing them into the filling or icing. Cold ingredients will lead to lumps in the filling or icing.

Freezing the Rolls: If you'd like to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked rolls after assembling them. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then allow for a final rise before baking.

Customization: Feel free to switch out the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. You can also experiment with different flavorings, like lemon zest or cinnamon, to make the rolls uniquely yours!

Cinnamon Sugar Variation: If you want an extra kick of cinnamon flavor, you can increase the amount of cinnamon in the filling or sprinkle some on top of the rolls before baking.

Icing Consistency: If your icing is too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time until it reaches a drizzle-able consistency. If it's too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it up.

Don’t Skip the Second Rise: The second rise is important for the rolls to puff up and achieve that light, fluffy texture. Make sure you allow for this step, even if you're in a rush—trust us, it’s worth the wait!