If you adore the irresistible combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet cinnamon rolls with a fruity twist, you are going to love this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls bursting with luscious cream cheese and fresh strawberries, all swirled with that classic cinnamon sugar goodness and finished with a smooth vanilla glaze. This recipe brings together rich, comforting flavors and vibrant, fresh fruit to create a truly unforgettable treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, yet each plays a crucial role in creating those perfect rolls. From the warm cinnamon and sweet strawberries to the creamy cheesecake filling, every element adds depth, tenderness, and mouthwatering flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and softness.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Helps the dough rise beautifully, creating fluffiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Keeps the dough tender and rich.
- 3/4 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and moistens the dough perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, sweet aroma.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the filling, smooth and tangy.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cheesecake layer just right.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for filling): Amplifies the cheesecake flavor.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped: Adds fresh, juicy bursts and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Keeps the strawberry filling thick and not soggy.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Combines with cinnamon for that classic cinnamon roll spice.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The soul of classic Cinnabon rolls, perfectly spiced.
- 2 tablespoons softened butter (for filling): Adds richness and helps the sugar cinnamon mixture stick.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet glaze to drizzle the finished rolls.
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Blends the powdered sugar into a smooth glaze.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds that final hint of warmth and sweetness to the glaze.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This dry mixture forms the sturdy base that will support the soft, fluffy dough. In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, warm milk, egg, and vanilla extract together to create the wet ingredients. Pour these into the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms that starts to come together beautifully.
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic—a sign that you are developing that wonderful chewy texture. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size. This rise is what will give your rolls that dreamy fluffiness.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, whip the filling together. Beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. In a small bowl, gently toss your fresh chopped strawberries with cornstarch, which will keep them from releasing too much juice and making the rolls soggy. This fresh strawberry element adds both sweetness and a delightful pop of color.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about a quarter-inch thick. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the strawberry pieces on top. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with cinnamon, then sprinkle this fragrant mixture over the strawberries. Dot the surface with small bits of softened butter to add richness and help everything meld together.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough up tightly from one long edge to the other, forming a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal rolls, each packed full of that luscious filling. Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, cover, and allow them to rise once more for 30 minutes. This second proofing makes sure the rolls bake up soft and airy.
Step 6: Bake and Glaze
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. While they bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the addictive glaze. Drizzle this sweet topping over the warm rolls fresh from the oven for that classic Cinnabon shine with a strawberry cheesecake spin.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, garnish your strawberry cheesecake Cinnabon rolls with more fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. A few fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing contrast and vibrant color that makes your presentation pop.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a simple, creamy beverage like a latte or hot chocolate for a delightful brunch or snack. Fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait complements the richness of the rolls and keeps the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your rolls in a rustic wooden board or a decorative baking dish lined with parchment paper for a warm, inviting presentation. You can even turn this recipe into individual servings by baking the rolls in muffin tins for perfectly portioned treats that look as cute as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover strawberry cheesecake Cinnabon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is better to prevent spoiling, although it may slightly firm up the rolls.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Place baked (and cooled) rolls in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then warm up for that freshly baked softness.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave the rolls for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Drizzle any leftover glaze after warming to restore that fresh-from-the-oven taste and gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe to keep the filling from becoming too watery, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them very well before tossing with cornstarch to minimize excess moisture.
Is it possible to make the dough without yeast?
Yeast is essential for this recipe to achieve the classic fluffy texture of Cinnabon rolls, so it’s not recommended to substitute it with baking powder or other leaveners here.
Can I substitute the cream cheese for a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! A vegan or dairy-free cream cheese alternative works well in the filling, just make sure it’s softened to blend smoothly with the sugar and vanilla.
How long can I let the rolls rise the second time?
About 30 minutes is ideal for the second rise. If you leave them longer, they might overproof and become too airy, causing them to collapse during baking.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches make delicious alternatives or add-ins to the strawberry filling, giving you a new twist on this beloved recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a treat that combines comfort, freshness, and a bit of indulgence all in one, this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s such a joy to bake and makes for exceptional moments shared with family or friends. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your home with the warm, welcoming scent of sweet strawberries and cinnamon. You won’t regret it!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 30m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 1h 30m
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully soft and sweet Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls combine a tender yeast dough with a luscious cream cheese filling, fresh strawberries, and a classic cinnamon brown sugar topping. Baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a vanilla glaze, these rolls offer a perfect balance of fruity freshness and rich, creamy sweetness ideal for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt thoroughly to form the dry base for the dough.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, warm milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour this into the dry ingredients while mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and rise dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare filling mixtures: Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. In another bowl, toss chopped strawberries with cornstarch to thicken during baking.
- Roll out dough: Roll the dough into a large rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick on a floured surface.
- Assemble filling: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the strawberry-cornstarch mixture on top.
- Add cinnamon sugar topping: Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the strawberries, then dot with softened butter for richness.
- Form rolls: Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice into 12 equal rolls.
- Second rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes to develop fluffiness.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare glaze and serve: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving for added sweetness and shine.
Notes
- Ensure your milk is warm to the touch but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use fresh and ripe strawberries for the best flavor and a juicy filling.
- Allowing the rolls to rise twice yields a fluffier, lighter texture.
- For an extra indulgent touch, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar topping.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
