Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

If you are looking for a sweet, comforting treat that combines everything you love about cinnamon rolls with the lusciousness of cheesecake and fresh strawberries, then you have to try this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe. These rolls are a stunning blend of soft, fluffy dough, a creamy cheesecake filling infused with cinnamon sugar, and crowned with juicy strawberry slices and a velvety cream cheese icing. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or just a cozy day at home, these rolls bring joy to the table with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component adds to the texture, flavor, or visual appeal—soft dough, creamy cheesecake, fragrant cinnamon, and vibrant strawberries create a perfect harmony you’ll absolutely adore.

• All-purpose flour (2 cups / 240g): Forms the base of the tender, fluffy dough.
• Whole milk (1/2 cup / 120ml), lukewarm: Activates the yeast and helps create soft rolls.
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons / 7g): Gives the dough its rise and fluffiness.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup / 50g + 1/4 cup / 50g for filling): Sweetens the dough and cheesecake filling just right.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup / 60g softened + 1/4 cup / 60g for cinnamon sugar): Adds richness to dough and a luscious layer in the filling.
• Large egg (1): Enhances the structure and tenderness of the dough.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and aromatic flavor.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and activates the dough.
• Cream cheese (8 oz / 225g softened + 4 oz / 115g for icing): Powers the creamy cheesecake filling and tangy icing.
• All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Stabilizes the cheesecake filling.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (1/2 cup / 120ml): Adds moisture and subtle tang to the filling.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup / 100g packed): Blends beautifully with cinnamon in the filling for that classic Cinnabon taste.
• Ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons): The essential spice that brings warmth and aroma.
• Fresh strawberries (1 cup / 150g, sliced): Provides a bright, juicy contrast and stunning color.
• Powdered sugar (1/2 cup / 60g): Sweetens the cream cheese icing smoothly.
• Whole milk (1-2 tablespoons): Adjusts the icing to perfect drizzle consistency.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining lukewarm milk with active dry yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and let it sit until it becomes frothy, about 5 to 10 minutes. This bubble action means your yeast is alive and ready to create that soft, airy dough we’re aiming for.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a big bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in your frothy yeast mixture along with softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir everything until the dough just begins to come together. Don’t worry if it’s rough at this point; we’ll smooth it out next.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes. Your goal here is a soft, elastic dough that springs back slowly when poked. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a tiny bit more flour, but keep it soft to ensure those melt-in-your-mouth rolls.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough ball into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and find a warm spot to let it double in size. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Watching this transformation is so satisfying—the dough will become billowy and ready for assembly.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

While your dough rises, whip up the cheesecake filling. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, vanilla, flour, and sour cream or Greek yogurt. Mix until creamy and silky—this filling is the luscious heart of our Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe.

Step 6: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This aromatic blend creates that iconic cinnamon-y taste you crave. Set aside—we’ll spread it over the cheesecake layer soon.

Step 7: Prepare the Butter

Make sure your butter is soft and spreadable but not melted. This will help it spread evenly across the dough to hold all the fillings perfectly in place.

Step 8: Roll Out the Dough

Punch down your risen dough to release trapped air, then use a rolling pin to form a large rectangle approximately 16 by 12 inches. This gives you the perfect canvas for layering all those irresistible fillings.

Step 9: Assemble the Rolls

Brush the softened butter evenly over the dough while leaving a little border free. Spread the cheesecake filling across the buttered dough, being careful not to go all the way to the edges. Next, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top for that classic sweet and spicy flavor burst.

Step 10: Roll and Cut

Starting with the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Seal the seam by pinching it closed, then use a sharp knife or even dental floss to slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Place these snugly in a greased 9×13 inch pan, but don’t let them touch just yet.

Step 11: Second Rise and Bake

Cover the rolls loosely and let them rise again for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy and touching each other. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn golden brown and heavenly.

Step 12: Cool, Ice, and Top

Remove the baked rolls and cool them for about 10 minutes. Whip together the cream cheese icing until silky, adding milk a little at a time. Spread or drizzle this luscious icing over the warm rolls, then crown them with your freshly sliced strawberries. The juicy strawberry topping brings a fresh brightness that perfectly balances the rich, sweet layers.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A generous drizzle of cream cheese icing and a fresh crown of sliced strawberries makes these rolls both irresistible and beautiful. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or a few mint leaves for an extra visual and flavor lift.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a simple cup of coffee or hot tea to complement the sweetness. For a more substantial brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait to balance indulgence with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Arrange rolls on a rustic wooden board and scatter extra strawberry slices and edible flowers around. You can also individualize portions by placing single rolls in mini ramekins for a charming presentation that feels special and festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate if you want to keep them up to 4 days, but make sure to bring them back to room temperature or gently warm them before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked rolls after slicing by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet then transferring to a freezer bag once firm. Alternatively, freeze baked and cooled rolls in an airtight container. Both methods keep them fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated rolls in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, covering loosely with foil if they start browning too fast. You can also microwave individual rolls for 20-30 seconds for a quick warm-up, then refresh with a little extra icing if desired.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?

Fresh strawberries are best for texture and appearance, but if all you have are frozen, thaw and drain them well first. The extra moisture can make your rolls soggy, so pat them dry before topping.

Is there a shortcut to making the dough?

For a quick alternative, you can use store-bought pizza dough or refrigerated crescent roll dough, but the homemade dough in this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe makes a significant difference in flavor and softness that’s worth the extra time.

How long will these rolls stay fresh after baking?

Stored properly at room temperature, these rolls stay fresh for about 2 days. Refrigerate to extend freshness up to 4 days, though best enjoyed warm and freshly iced.

Can I make these rolls dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and margarine, and use a plant-based milk for activation. Keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best way to slice the rolled dough?

Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss works best to get clean, even slices. Dental floss allows you to cut smoothly without squishing the dough, which keeps the rolls uniform and neat.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is such a delightful treat that it’s bound to become your new favorite indulgence. From the soft, buttery dough to the luscious cheesecake filling and fresh strawberry topping, every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures. Give it a try, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert or breakfast that friends and family will rave about time and time again.

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