Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls: Prepare to have your breakfast dreams redefined! Imagine the warm, comforting embrace of a freshly baked cinnamon roll, but with a delightful twist. We’re talking about a luscious strawberry cheesecake filling swirled within, creating a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience.

While the classic cinnamon roll boasts a rich history rooted in Swedish and German baking traditions, our Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are a modern, decadent interpretation. Think of it as a delicious fusion of cultures and flavors, where the familiar comfort of cinnamon meets the tangy sweetness of strawberries and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake.

What makes these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The soft, pillowy dough gives way to a gooey, cinnamon-spiced center, followed by the bright, fruity burst of strawberries and the rich, creamy tang of cheesecake. It’s a treat that satisfies every craving, offering warmth, sweetness, and a touch of sophistication all in one bite. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, making them perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unforgettable treat!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup milk, warmed to 110-115°F
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup strawberry jam (high-quality, seedless preferred)
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional Toppings:
• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Graham cracker crumbs
• Strawberry syrup

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. This ensures the ingredients are evenly distributed before adding the wet ingredients.
2. Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This step is crucial to ensure the yeast is alive and active, which will help the dough rise properly. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it’s likely dead, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter and beaten eggs to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is a critical step for developing the flavor and texture of the rolls. A warm environment helps the yeast work its magic.

Making the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

1. Cream Together Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Incorporate Strawberry Elements: Gently fold in the strawberry jam and chopped fresh strawberries. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the filling too runny. The goal is to evenly distribute the strawberry flavor and texture throughout the cheesecake filling.

Assembling the Rolls:

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
2. Spread the Filling: Spread the strawberry cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. This border will help seal the rolls.
3. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
4. Cut the Rolls: Use a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls. Dental floss creates a cleaner cut and prevents the rolls from being squished.
5. Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy. This second rise allows the rolls to become even lighter and fluffier.

Baking the Rolls:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. If the tops start to brown too quickly, you can tent them with foil.
3. Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before frosting. This allows them to set slightly and prevents the frosting from melting completely.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Cream Together Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Again, ensure both are at room temperature for best results.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Adjust Consistency: Add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You may need more or less milk depending on the humidity.

Frosting and Serving:

1. Frost the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm rolls.
2. Add Toppings (Optional): Garnish with fresh strawberries, graham cracker crumbs, and strawberry syrup, if desired.
3. Serve: Serve the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls warm and enjoy! They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are truly a symphony of flavors and textures, a delightful indulgence that’s guaranteed to impress. From the warm, comforting cinnamon-spiced dough to the tangy cream cheese filling and the burst of fresh strawberry sweetness, every bite is an experience. I know, I know, it might seem a little ambitious, but trust me, the effort is absolutely worth it. This isn’t just another dessert; it’s a showstopper, a conversation starter, and a memory maker all rolled into one delicious package.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it takes the best parts of a classic cinnamon roll, elevates them with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, and then adds a vibrant, fruity twist that will leave you craving more. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, rich and refreshing, and familiar yet excitingly new. Plus, imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as these bake – pure bliss!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a truly decadent experience, serve these warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts would also add a touch of elegance.

Looking for variations? You could easily swap out the strawberries for other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even blackberries. For a chocolatey twist, add cocoa powder to the dough or incorporate chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of lemon or orange zest to the dough or the filling for a brighter, more citrusy flavor. You can even make these ahead of time! Prepare the rolls up to the baking stage, cover them tightly, and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to create something special, something memorable, something utterly delicious.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure. I promise you won’t regret it. And once you’ve made these incredible rolls, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s spread the joy of baking and inspire others to try this amazing recipe. Happy baking, and enjoy every single bite of these heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls! I can’t wait to see what you create!