Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls: A Delightful Fusion of Flavors

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. Now, imagine combining that comforting aroma with the sweet, tangy burst of strawberries and the creamy decadence of cheesecake. That’s what Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls offer—a delectable treat that’s perfect for brunch, dessert, or a special breakfast.

This step-by-step guide will help you make these irresistible rolls from scratch, with tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls involves three key components: the dough, the filling, and the cream cheese frosting. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need:

For the Dough	For the Filling	For the Frosting
1 cup warm milk (110°F)	1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened	8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast	1 cup brown sugar, packed	1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar	2 tbsp ground cinnamon	2 cups powdered sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature	1 cup diced fresh strawberries	1 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted		2 tbsp strawberry jam
1 tsp salt		Fresh strawberries (topping)
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour		Crushed graham crackers (optional)

Why You’ll Love These Rolls

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a sweet treat; they’re an experience. Here’s what makes them special:

• Unique Flavor Combination: The warmth of cinnamon pairs beautifully with the freshness of strawberries and the richness of cheesecake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a festive gathering, these rolls fit right in.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, add extra strawberries, or play with the frosting to suit your preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough

The dough is the foundation of your rolls, and making it from scratch ensures soft, fluffy results.

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well.
3. Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

2. Making the Filling

The filling is what gives your rolls their classic cinnamon flavor with a fruity twist.

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches.
3. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add Strawberries: Sprinkle diced strawberries over the filling for a burst of fresh flavor.

3. Rolling and Cutting

Getting evenly sized rolls ensures they bake uniformly.

1. Roll It Up: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
2. Slice the Rolls: Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
3. Prepare the Pan: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Baking the Rolls

Here’s where the magic happens.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until they’re golden brown.
3. Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before adding the frosting.

5. Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting

This frosting takes your rolls to the next level.

1. Beat Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add Sweetness: Mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
3. Create a Swirl: Drizzle strawberry jam over the frosting and gently swirl it for a marbled effect.

6. Assembling and Serving

Now for the finishing touches.

1. Frost the Rolls: Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the slightly cooled rolls.
2. Add Toppings: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake-inspired crunch.
3. Serve Warm: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they also reheat beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

• Check Your Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs and butter for smoother dough and filling.
• Even Slicing: Use unflavored dental floss to cut rolls cleanly without squishing them.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Roll
Calories	350
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	50g
Sugar	30g
Protein	5g

FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture from making the dough soggy.

2. How do I store leftover rolls?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat before serving.

3. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out.

4. What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
Mascarpone cheese or a thick Greek yogurt can be used for a different but still creamy texture.

5. Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg for the dough, and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.

6. How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?
Use parchment paper or grease your baking dish generously to ensure easy removal.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Treat

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful combination of flavors that bring comfort and joy to any table. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress.

Ready to bake these delicious rolls? Share them with your family and friends or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here!

Print