Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Sweet Breakfast Treat

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If you love cinnamon rolls and cheesecake, why not combine them into one luscious, irresistible breakfast delight? Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are a crowd-pleaser, boasting soft, fluffy dough, a rich cheesecake filling, fresh strawberry bursts, and a sweet vanilla glaze topping. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch, these rolls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of flavors: The tangy cheesecake filling complements the sweet cinnamon sugar and fresh strawberries.

  • Soft, fluffy dough: The yeast dough rises beautifully to create tender rolls.

  • Simple yet impressive: Made with common pantry ingredients and straightforward techniques.

  • Versatile: Enjoy fresh or warm, ideal for holidays or everyday treats.

Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Dough

  • Warm milk (1 cup, ~110°F): Activates yeast and helps create a soft dough texture.

  • Active dry yeast (2¼ tsp, 1 packet): The leavening agent that makes the dough rise.

  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Feeds yeast and sweetens the dough.

  • Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Adds richness and tenderness.

  • Salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

  • Large eggs (2): Provide structure, moisture, and richness.

  • All-purpose flour (4 cups): The base of the dough that gives it structure.

For the Filling

  • Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Creates the cinnamon butter base for filling.

  • Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens and caramelizes when baked.

  • Ground cinnamon (2 tsp): Provides warm, aromatic flavor.

  • Fresh strawberries (1 cup, diced): Adds freshness and bursts of juicy flavor.

  • Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Key for the cheesecake tang and creaminess.

  • Powdered sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens and smooths the cheesecake filling.

  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds aromatic depth.

For the Glaze

  • Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweet base for glaze.

  • Milk (2–3 tbsp): Adjusts glaze consistency.

  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds flavor.

  • Optional strawberry jam (¼ cup): Intensifies strawberry flavor and adds color.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) or a large bowl for hand kneading

  • Rolling pin

  • 9×13 inch baking dish

  • Whisk for glaze

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

Warm your milk to approximately 110°F — warm to the touch but not hot. In a medium bowl, combine the warm milk with yeast and ¼ cup sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready.

2. Make the Dough

In a large bowl, add the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Stir in the yeast mixture. Begin adding 2 cups of the flour, stirring until combined and smooth. Gradually add the remaining flour, kneading the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until the dough is soft, elastic, and only slightly sticky. This process typically takes 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes with a mixer.

3. First Rise

Grease a large bowl with butter or oil. Place the dough inside and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

4. Prepare the Fillings

While the dough rises, prepare the cinnamon butter filling by mixing softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and well combined.

5. Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon butter evenly over the dough, followed by a layer of the cheesecake mixture. Finally, sprinkle the diced strawberries evenly on top.

6. Shape the Rolls

Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

7. Second Rise

Cover the baking dish with a towel and allow the rolls to rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy.

8. Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

9. Prepare the Glaze

While baking, whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and optional strawberry jam until smooth and pourable.

10. Glaze and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time & Nutritional Info

  • Total Prep & Rising Time: Approximately 90 minutes

  • Bake Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: Around 2 hours

  • Yield: 12 rolls

  • Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per roll (estimate)

Expert Tips for Perfect Rolls

  • Dough Texture: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable. Avoid adding too much flour.

  • Even Filling: Spread the fillings evenly to prevent leaking and uneven flavors.

  • Fresh Strawberries: Use firm strawberries to avoid excess moisture making the dough soggy.

  • Glaze Warmth: Warm glaze slightly for easier spreading and a smooth finish.

  • Make Ahead: Prepare and shape the rolls, refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning—add 5–10 minutes baking time.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a twist.

  • Add chopped nuts to the filling for crunch.

  • Serve with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated up to 4 days.

  • Reheat rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a warm oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

How do I store the rolls?
Keep in an airtight container to retain moisture. Refrigerate for longer storage.

Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping, wrapped tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh.

This detailed post can easily be expanded further by adding:

  • A personal story or origin of the recipe

  • In-depth ingredient benefits (e.g., health benefits of strawberries, cinnamon)

  • Troubleshooting tips for dough rising or texture

  • Pairing ideas for drinks or side dishes

  • Visual step-by-step photo guides (if adding images)

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