Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Sweet aromas of strawberry cheesecake cinnamon rolls waft through kitchens, promising decadent morning indulgence.

Soft dough swirls with creamy possibilities that spark culinary excitement.

Unexpected combinations create magical breakfast moments where classic comfort meets innovative baking.

Delicate strawberry hints dance alongside rich cream cheese, challenging traditional pastry expectations.

Warm spices and fruity notes intertwine, crafting a sensory experience that awakens sleepy taste buds.

Weekend brunch just became extraordinary with these irresistible rolls that blend familiar comfort with surprising elegance.

You cannot resist the temptation to knead, roll, and savor every single delightful bite.

Reasons to Love Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls in the Morning

  • Devour Delightful Complexity: Crafting these strawberry cheesecake cinnamon rolls transforms an ordinary baking experience into an extraordinary culinary adventure.
  • Quicken Family Bonding: These rolls create perfect weekend morning moments, bringing everyone together with their irresistible aroma and shared excitement of making something delicious from scratch.
  • Weekend Brunch Champion: Perfect for special occasions like Mother's Day, brunch gatherings, or lazy weekend mornings when you want something impressive yet surprisingly manageable to prepare.
  • Playful Flavor Fusion: Combines classic cinnamon roll comfort with fresh strawberry cheesecake elegance, offering a surprising twist that delights taste buds and breaks traditional dessert boundaries.

Cheesecake Cinnamon Roll (Strawberry) Ingredients

Bread Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Fundamental base for creating soft, tender dough structure.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Essential for bread rising and developing rich flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps activate yeast.
  • Warm Milk: Creates moisture and helps activate yeast.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and tender texture to dough.
  • Egg: Binds ingredients and provides structure.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and controls yeast growth.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth, creamy base for strawberry filling.
  • Fresh Strawberries: Adds natural sweetness and fruity flavor.
  • Graham Crackers: Provides crunchy texture and subtle graham taste.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor profile.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth, sweet glaze consistency.
  • Cream Cheese: Provides creamy, tangy base for glaze.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture.
  • Fresh Strawberries: Infuses natural fruity flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: Balances sweetness and adds brightness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out flavor complexity.

Cinnamon Cheesecake Rolls Baking Directions

Step 1: Activate Yeast Mixture

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and pour in warm milk.

Sprinkle yeast over the milk and let it bubble and wake up for about 10 minutes.

The mixture will look frothy and alive.

Add melted butter, a cracked egg, and a pinch of salt to the yeast.

Slowly incorporate flour until a soft, pillowy dough emerges.

Step 2: Knead and Rise the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead with your hands, pushing and folding for 5 minutes until the dough feels smooth and stretchy.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rest in a cozy warm spot.

Watch it double in size over about an hour.

Step 3: Create Strawberry Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, whip cream cheese until silky.

Blend in sugar and vanilla extract.

Gently fold in:
  • Fresh diced strawberries
  • Crushed graham crackers

Step 4: Roll and Shape Delicious Spirals

Spread the risen dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread the strawberry cream cheese mixture evenly, leaving a small border.

Roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a beautiful log.

Slice into 12 even rolls and nestle them in a greased baking dish.

Let them rise again for 25 minutes.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Heat the oven to 375°F.

Slide the rolls into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 6: Whip Up Strawberry Cream Glaze

While rolls bake, create a dreamy glaze by beating cream cheese and butter.

Mix in:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Pureed strawberries
  • Lemon juice
  • Vanilla extract

Step 7: Drizzle and Serve

Once rolls are slightly cooled, generously spread the strawberry cream glaze over the top.

Serve warm and enjoy the burst of sweet, tangy flavors.

Roll Prep for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Buns

  • Ensure the dough is soft and elastic by gently kneading, avoiding overworking which can make rolls tough and dense.
  • Dice strawberries small and drain excess moisture to prevent soggy filling and maintain roll structure.
  • Allow cream cheese and butter to soften naturally for smoother, lump-free filling and glaze.
  • Place dough in a warm, draft-free spot like near a preheated oven to help it rise evenly and develop rich flavor.
  • Apply cream cheese glaze when rolls are slightly warm but not hot to prevent melting and ensure perfect coating.

Handling Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Later

  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious.
  • Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
  • Warm refrigerated rolls at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out and maintain softness.
  • Reheat a single roll for 15-20 seconds on medium power, checking to avoid overheating and maintaining tender texture.

Cheesecake Roll Complements

  • Pair Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Complement the warm, sweet cinnamon rolls with a scoop of cold, smooth vanilla ice cream that balances the rich filling and adds refreshing contrast.
  • Match Sparkling Rosé Wine: Enhance the strawberry notes by serving a light, crisp rosé that brings out the fruity undertones and provides a sophisticated adult beverage pairing.
  • Brew Fresh Strawberry Mint Iced Tea: Create a cool, fruity drink that mirrors the strawberry flavors in the rolls, with a hint of mint to cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Serve Whipped Mascarpone Cream: Top the rolls with a dollop of lightly sweetened mascarpone cream to amplify the cheesecake-like texture and add an extra layer of decadent smoothness.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Styles

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring xanthan gum is included for proper texture and binding.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Substitute dairy milk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, replace egg with flax egg, and swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese alternative.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of granulated sugar, incorporate fresh berries for natural sweetness, and reduce overall sugar content in filling and glaze.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace milk and cream cheese with coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese, use plant-based butter for a lactose-free version while maintaining rich flavor profile.

FAQs

  • How difficult is this recipe to make?

This recipe requires intermediate baking skills. You’ll need to work with yeast dough, which can be tricky for beginners, but following the steps carefully will help you succeed.

  • Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain them completely first. Fresh strawberries work best for texture and flavor, as frozen ones can release too much moisture into the filling.

  • What if my dough doesn't rise properly?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm (not hot), around 110°F. A warm, draft-free environment is crucial for proper dough rising. If it doesn’t rise, your yeast might be inactive.

  • How do I know when the rolls are perfectly baked?

Look for a light golden brown color on top and edges. The rolls should look puffy and set, but not dark brown. Insert a toothpick near the center – it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet strawberry magic meets classic cheesecake in these mouthwatering cinnamon rolls. Creamy filling and fresh berries create a heavenly breakfast treat that will make mornings delightful for everyone who craves something special.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 3/4 cups (345 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (150 grams) fresh strawberries, diced
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) cream cheese, softened

Dough Components:

  • 3/4 cup (177 milliliters) warm milk
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Filling and Topping Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) crushed graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (56 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup (37 grams) fresh strawberries, pureed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Craft the foundational dough by whisking warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle yeast across the surface. Allow the mixture to bloom and become frothy for approximately 10 minutes.
  2. Incorporate melted butter, egg, and salt into the activated yeast mixture. Gradually introduce flour, mixing until a cohesive, tender dough emerges.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly dusted work surface and knead methodically for 5 minutes, developing a smooth, elastic texture.
  4. Nestle the dough into a greased container, drape with a protective cover, and position in a warm environment. Allow the dough to expand and double in volume over roughly 60 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, whip cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until silky and uniform. Gently fold diced strawberries and crushed graham crackers into the creamy mixture.
  6. Roll the risen dough into a rectangular shape measuring 9×16 inches on a flour-scattered surface.
  7. Distribute the strawberry-cream cheese filling evenly across the dough, maintaining a slight border around the edges.
  8. Carefully roll the dough from the elongated side, creating a tightly wound log.
  9. Slice the log into 12 uniform sections and arrange them in a prepared baking dish.
  10. Drape a clean kitchen towel over the rolls and permit a secondary rise for 25 minutes.
  11. Heat the oven to 375°F and bake the rolls until they achieve a delicate golden hue, approximately 15-18 minutes.
  12. While the rolls bake, craft the glaze by blending cream cheese and butter until creamy.
  13. Integrate powdered sugar, strawberry puree, lemon juice, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  14. After removing rolls from the oven, allow brief cooling before lavishing with the vibrant strawberry cream cheese glaze.

Notes

  • Let the yeast mixture sit until it becomes foamy, indicating active and healthy yeast for a perfect rise.
  • Add flour gradually to control dough consistency, preventing a sticky or dry texture.
  • Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, which develops gluten for a soft, tender roll.
  • Rise the dough in a warm, draft-free area to ensure proper fermentation and volume.
  • Fold strawberries gently into the filling to prevent breaking and maintain fruit integrity.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
  • Allow rolls to rise a second time for lighter, more airy texture.
  • Cool rolls slightly before glazing to prevent runny, absorbed topping.
  • Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives for dietary restrictions.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying.
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 21 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 51 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Katherine Pierce

Katherine Pierce

Recipe Curator & Food Educator

Expertise

  • Curating diverse recipe collections
  • Educating on global culinary traditions
  • Developing informative food content

Education

Boston University Metropolitan College
Certificate Program in the Culinary Arts
Focus: French and international cuisine techniques, Hands-on culinary training with industry professionals, Food industry insights and operations


Katherine grew up believing every dish has a story. She studied the art of food at Boston University and explored the history behind it. She loves pulling easy recipes from every corner of the world and putting them at your fingertips.
When Katherine’s not writing or testing new flavors, she’s teaching cooking classes, baking colorful mooncakes, or dreaming up new ways to mix old favorites with new twists.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star