If you love the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but crave a fruity, creamy twist, then this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Picture soft, fluffy dough layered with luscious cream cheese and tangy strawberry preserves, sprinkled with cinnamon-spiced brown sugar, all topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting. These rolls bake up beautifully golden and bursting with irresistible flavors that will fill your kitchen with pure bliss. Whether for a special occasion breakfast or a decadent dessert, these rolls deliver on every level of comfort and delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, kitchen-staple ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays an essential role, from the creamy richness of the cream cheese to the sweet-tart pop of strawberry preserves, all wrapped in a soft, yeasty dough that bakes up light and tender.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F): Activates the yeast for that perfect fluffy dough rise.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The magic behind the airy texture of your rolls.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps yeast ferment beautifully.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Provides richness and structure to the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Keeps the dough tender and flavorful.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything together.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Key to that luscious, creamy filling and frosting.
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves: Bursts of fruity sweetness packed into every bite.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Provides a rich molasses undertone in the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice for that classic cinnabon vibe.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): For spreading evenly in the filling mixture.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates the perfect smooth, sweet frosting.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings depth and warmth to the frosting’s flavor.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Rise the Dough
Start by proofing your yeast in warm milk; this step ensures your rolls will rise perfectly light and fluffy. Once the yeast is foamy, stir in sugar, egg, and melted butter before adding flour and salt to form a soft dough. Knead the dough for several minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, then let it rest covered in a warm spot. This rest period is crucial as it allows the dough to rise and develop that beautiful airy texture you want for your rolls.
Step 2: Roll Out and Add the Filling
After your dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then add a generous layer of cream cheese and strawberry preserves right on top of the butter. This creates a creamy, fruity base that blends perfectly with the cinnamon-sugar topping. Finally, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly for that unmistakable cinnabon flavor.
Step 3: Roll, Slice, and Let Rise Again
Carefully roll the dough starting from the long side to create tight spirals packed with filling. Cut the roll into nine even pieces and place them snugly in a greased baking dish. Giving the rolls another rest to puff up is essential; this second rise makes sure you get those soft, pillowy layers everyone loves when they bite into these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the rolls into a preheated oven and bake until they turn beautifully golden and are cooked through. The smell alone will be irresistible as the cream cheese filling bubbles alongside the cinnamon-scented dough. When time’s up, pull them out and let them cool just slightly so you can slather on the rich cream cheese frosting without it melting away.
Step 5: Frost and Enjoy
While the rolls bake, whip up a silky cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Then spread this luscious topping generously over the warm rolls. This final touch adds that creamy, sweet balance that makes this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe so unforgettable.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To give your rolls an extra pop of freshness and visual appeal, try garnishing with thin slices of fresh strawberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A few mint leaves can add a pleasant contrast in aroma and color that makes the whole presentation shine. These little touches take your already stunning rolls from delicious to absolutely Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair these cinnamon rolls with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee, a bright citrus tea, or even a cold glass of milk to complement their sweet, creamy nature. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit salad or a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the rolls, keeping your meal refreshed and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to delight guests or family, serve the rolls on a tiered stand for a delightful visual impact. You could also slice them in half horizontally and layer with additional strawberry slices and mascarpone for a strawberry cheesecake sandwich twist. For parties, mini versions baked in muffin tins make charming bite-sized treats everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerated for up to a week. To keep them from drying out, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing in the container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently to revive that fresh-baked softness.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping and placing them in the pan, tightly covered with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, allow to come to room temperature and rise, then bake as usual. Alternatively, baked rolls can also be frozen, wrapped well to preserve moisture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best texture, warm your rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes, loosely covered with foil to prevent drying. Microwaving works too for a quick warm-up, but keep it to short intervals to avoid toughness. Reheat just before serving and refresh each roll with a little extra frosting if needed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?
Absolutely! For an extra burst of fresh flavor, finely chop fresh strawberries and mix them into the cream cheese filling along with or instead of the strawberry preserves. Just be mindful of the additional moisture which can affect the dough slightly.
Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
Yes, the two rising periods are essential for achieving the soft, fluffy texture these rolls are known for. The first rise develops the structure and flavor, while the second ensures each individual roll becomes light and airy after slicing.
Can I make these rolls dairy-free?
With some substitutions like plant-based cream cheese, non-dairy butter, and milk alternatives, you can make a dairy-free version of this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary slightly but still be delicious.
How long do Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls last?
Freshly baked rolls are best enjoyed within 2 days when stored at room temperature, or up to a week refrigerated. Proper storage like wrapping and airtight containers help maintain freshness longer.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two 9×9 pans. Make sure to give each batch enough space to rise properly before baking to maintain that perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is truly a showstopper that brings smiles with every bite. Its blend of fluffy dough, tangy cream cheese, and sweet strawberry flavors makes it a wonderful treat to share with loved ones or enjoy as a special indulgence. I encourage you to dive in and try making these rolls yourself—trust me, your taste buds will thank you and your kitchen will smell like pure heaven.
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the luscious fusion of flavors with these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, featuring a soft, fluffy dough wrapped around a creamy cheesecake and strawberry preserves filling, topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these rolls offer a sweet and tangy twist on a classic cinnamon roll dessert.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Make Dough: Stir in the granulated sugar, egg, and melted butter into the foamy yeast mixture. Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Filling: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Evenly spread the softened butter over the dough, followed by the softened cream cheese and strawberry preserves. Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly on top.
- Form Rolls: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 9 equal-sized rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, cover them, and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn lightly golden and are cooked through.
- Make Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Frost & Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls before serving to enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Notes
- For extra strawberry flavor, finely chop fresh strawberries and mix into the filling before rolling.
- These rolls can be prepared the night before; cover and refrigerate after the second rise, then bake fresh in the morning.
