Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts: the gooey, cinnamon-filled rolls of a classic Cinnabon and the rich, creamy decadence of a strawberry cheesecake. This hybrid dessert combines the best of both worlds—soft, fluffy rolls layered with a swirl of cinnamon-sugar goodness, topped with a tangy-sweet strawberry cheesecake filling. The result is an indulgent treat that feels luxurious yet comforting.
These rolls are ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking to serve a decadent breakfast on a lazy Sunday morning, impress guests at a brunch gathering, or satisfy a late-night craving for something sweet, these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls fit the bill. Their beautiful presentation, enhanced by the vibrant red of the strawberries, makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
This recipe is inspired by two iconic desserts that many people love: the classic Cinnabon cinnamon roll and the luxurious flavors of strawberry cheesecake. The base of the recipe stays true to the soft, pillowy texture and comforting warmth of the cinnamon roll, but with a creative twist—adding a layer of cheesecake filling, which not only enhances the creaminess but elevates the richness of the entire roll.
The addition of strawberries brings a refreshing burst of fruitiness to the equation, balancing out the sweetness and providing a fresh, natural flavor. This combination is perfect for those who crave balance in their desserts—offering the richness of cheesecake without being overly heavy, thanks to the bright and slightly tart strawberries. Whether you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls or cheesecake, this recipe offers the best of both worlds.
Key Ingredients Overview
To create the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, several key ingredients come together to form distinct layers of flavor and texture:
Dough: The dough is made from simple yet essential ingredients like flour, sugar, yeast, butter, and milk. These elements create a light, fluffy roll that rises beautifully when baked. Yeast is critical for providing that signature soft and pillowy texture, while butter enriches the dough, making it soft and tender.
Strawberry Cheesecake Filling: The filling consists of cream cheese, fresh strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. The cream cheese gives the filling a smooth, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries. Fresh strawberries bring a naturally sweet yet tangy flavor, which complements the richness of the cream cheese and helps to balance the sweetness of the cinnamon roll.
Cinnamon-Sugar Filling: This classic combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter is spread inside the dough, giving the rolls their signature spiced sweetness. The softened butter helps the cinnamon-sugar stick to the dough, creating those delicious spirals inside the roll.
For dietary restrictions, substitutions can be made: use gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities, and vegan cream cheese and butter for a dairy-free version. These adjustments ensure that this dessert can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Recipe and Techniques
Preparing the Dough
To make the perfect dough for your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, begin by activating your yeast. Warm 1 cup of milk to around 110°F (43°C) and mix it with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 packet of active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons). Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy—this ensures the yeast is active.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the yeast mixture, ¼ cup of melted butter, and 1 large egg. Mix until the dough starts to form, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be soft, elastic, and only slightly sticky. If it’s too sticky, gradually add more flour, but avoid over-flouring, which can make the dough dense.
For a time-saving alternative, you can use store-bought refrigerated dough if you’re in a rush. However, homemade dough gives a softer, fresher texture, which is key to the traditional Cinnabon experience.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Making the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling
To make the strawberry cheesecake filling, start by beating 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with ½ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. This base creates the rich, tangy cheesecake element of the filling.
For the strawberry part, you can use either fresh strawberries or a strawberry compote. If using fresh strawberries, hull and dice 1 cup of berries, and fold them into the cream cheese mixture. For a more concentrated strawberry flavor, you can also use a homemade or store-bought strawberry compote, adding about ½ cup to the cheesecake mixture.
If using frozen strawberries, be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the filling too watery. This ensures that the filling maintains the right balance of creaminess and sweetness, without being overly runny.
Taste the filling and adjust for sweetness as needed. If you prefer a more tart flavor, reduce the sugar slightly or add a dash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Preparing the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
The cinnamon-sugar filling is what gives the rolls their signature flavor and beautiful swirls. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Mix until you have a smooth, spreadable paste.
Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature so it spreads evenly over the dough. This is essential for achieving consistent layers of cinnamon-sugar throughout each roll. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like richness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon, creating the iconic flavor profile of a Cinnabon roll.
For an even spread, use a spatula to smooth the filling onto the rolled-out dough, covering every inch to avoid gaps. This ensures that every bite of the roll has a burst of cinnamon flavor.
Assembling the Cinnabon Rolls
Once your dough has risen, it’s time to assemble the rolls. Begin by lightly flouring a flat surface, then roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Aim for a rectangle that’s roughly 18×12 inches to ensure you have enough surface area for the fillings.
Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough using a spatula. Be sure to cover the entire surface, right up to the edges, for consistent flavor in each bite.
Next, carefully spoon and spread the strawberry cheesecake filling on top of the cinnamon-sugar layer. If the cheesecake filling seems too thick to spread easily, you can gently warm it to soften it, making it easier to handle. Make sure the strawberry pieces are evenly distributed.
Starting from the long edge of the dough, tightly roll the dough into a log. Rolling tightly is essential for creating those classic spiral layers inside the roll. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into even pieces—about 1 ½ inches thick—so that each roll bakes evenly.
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each roll to allow for expansion as they rise. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and are touching each other.
Baking the Rolls to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen for the second time, place them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and soft but cooked through on the inside.
To ensure the rolls don’t dry out, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil after 15 minutes of baking if the tops are browning too quickly. This will prevent over-browning while allowing the centers to bake fully.
You’ll know the rolls are done when they are a deep golden brown on top, and the internal temperature has reached around 190°F (88°C). The rolls should still be soft in the middle but not doughy.
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10-15 minutes before glazing. This cooling period lets the rolls firm up slightly while still being warm enough to absorb the glaze.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Glaze
For the glaze, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed—aim for a thick but pourable glaze that will coat the warm rolls without running off too quickly.
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest to the glaze for a bright, tangy contrast to the richness of the rolls. If you prefer a lighter option, you can make a simple powdered sugar glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk and vanilla.
Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to seep into the layers.
Final Assembly: Glazing and Garnishing
Once the rolls are slightly cooled but still warm, pour the cream cheese glaze over them, making sure each roll is generously covered. The warmth of the rolls helps the glaze melt into the nooks and crannies, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
For an extra touch of flair, consider garnishing the rolls with fresh strawberry slices, which not only enhance the presentation but also add a fresh, fruity burst to each bite. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or white chocolate shavings can add a decorative finish and additional flavor layers.
Serve the rolls warm for the best texture and flavor. They make a perfect indulgent breakfast, brunch centerpiece, or dessert. Paired with a cup of coffee or tea, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
Tips for Customizing Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls
- Add-ins: Try incorporating chocolate chips or white chocolate into the strawberry cheesecake filling for added richness. Chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, can also bring a crunchy texture to contrast with the softness of the rolls.
- Fruit variations: Swap the strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor twist. You can even mix multiple berries for a medley of flavors.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar in the dough or filling. Alternatively, for a more indulgent dessert, you can increase the sugar or add a layer of caramel sauce along with the strawberry cheesecake filling.
- Make-ahead options: These rolls can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble them the night before and store them in the refrigerator, covered. The next morning, simply let them come to room temperature and rise for a final time before baking. They also freeze well for up to 2 months—just reheat before serving.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dough not rising properly: Ensure your yeast is fresh and activated correctly. If the dough doesn’t rise, the yeast might not have been active, or the environment could have been too cold.
- Dry or dense rolls: Make sure to measure flour accurately and avoid over-kneading the dough. Over-baking can also cause dryness, so keep an eye on the rolls in the oven.
- Soggy rolls: Too much moisture in the strawberry cheesecake filling can lead to sogginess. Use fresh strawberries, and if using frozen berries, drain them thoroughly.
- Too sweet or unbalanced flavors: Adjust the sugar levels in both the dough and filling to your taste. For more balance, a bit of lemon juice or zest can add brightness to counter the richness.
FAQs Section
FAQ 1: Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but they must be thawed and drained thoroughly to avoid adding excess moisture to the filling.
FAQ 2: How do I store leftover rolls?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
FAQ 3: Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a gluten-free yeast as well for the best results.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls
Description
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic cinnamon roll with a luscious strawberry cheesecake filling. Soft, gooey rolls are filled with fresh strawberries and a creamy mixture, then topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. They’re the perfect indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!
Ingredients
- Cinnamon Roll Dough:
Store-bought or homemade - For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dough:
Prepare the cinnamon roll dough according to the package instructions or use your favorite homemade recipe.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, diced fresh strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3️⃣ Roll Out the Dough:
Roll the prepared dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
4️⃣ Add the Filling:
Spread the strawberry cheesecake filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, covering it from edge to edge.
5️⃣ Roll and Slice:
Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the longer edges. Slice the log into individual rolls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick.
6️⃣ Bake the Rolls:
Place the sliced rolls into a greased baking dish. Bake according to the cinnamon roll dough instructions, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through (usually about 25-30 minutes at 350°F/175°C).
7️⃣ Prepare the Frosting:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
8️⃣ Frost and Serve:
Once the rolls are done baking, generously frost them with the cream cheese icing while still warm. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of cinnamon to the cheesecake filling.
- You can substitute the fresh strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
- If you want an even more indulgent version, drizzle some melted white chocolate over the frosted rolls.
