Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

If ever there was a dessert that could make you weak in the knees, the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe does it with style. Imagine plush, sweet dough swirled with cinnamon, stuffed with creamy cheesecake, and topped with a tumble of fresh strawberries and silky icing. This delightful treat brings together everything you crave in a classic Cinnabon roll but takes it to the next level with those cheesecake layers and bursts of berry freshness. Whether you’re making a special breakfast or the ultimate dessert for guests, these rolls promise to steal the show (and possibly create a few lifelong fans along the way).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These incredibly inviting rolls come together with everyday ingredients, each playing a special role in taste and texture. There’s nothing too fancy here, but every single component helps build remarkable layers of flavor—from fluffy dough to velvety cheesecake filling, spiced sweetness, and a bright berry topping.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your pillowy dough—choose unbleached for best texture.
• Whole milk, lukewarm: Warm milk activates the yeast and makes the dough extra tender and rich.
• Active dry yeast: Gives our rolls that beautiful rise and light, fluffy interior.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the dough and the cheesecake mixture just enough.
• Unsalted butter, softened: Richness! It goes into the dough and gets slathered as a luscious layer before rolling.
• Large egg: Adds moisture and helps everything hold together for a lovely crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Real vanilla brings delicate, warm flavor to both dough and filling.
• Salt: Just a touch enhances every other flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Cream cheese, softened: The hero of our cheesecake filling and icing, for that creamy tang.
• Flour (for filling): A spoonful thickens the cheesecake layer so it stays plush, not runny.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds a little tang and extra silkiness to the cheesecake filling.
• Brown sugar: The classic pairing with cinnamon, giving those signature caramel notes.
• Ground cinnamon: Warm spice meets sweet dough; don’t be shy with it!
• Fresh strawberries: Sliced and juicy, these lift every bite with their summery brightness.
• Powdered sugar: This blends into the perfect, cloud-like icing for drizzling.
• Whole milk (for icing): Helps you reach that swoon-worthy, spreadable icing consistency.
• Pinch of salt (for icing): Just enough to make the sweet and creamy flavors pop.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe off right by waking up the yeast. In a small bowl, stir the lukewarm milk and yeast together, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. When you see it get frothy, that means your yeast is ready to give the dough a fluffy lift—don’t skip this step for pillowy, bakery-style rolls.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt, making a well in the center. Add the bubbled-up yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands. You’re aiming for a sticky, shaggy dough at this stage—just make sure everything is mixed in evenly.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to go from sticky to smooth and elastic. If the dough clings to your hands too much, dust lightly with more flour—but add only as much as needed. The softer your dough, the fluffier your rolls!

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Shape your dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise somewhere warm for 1 to 1.5 hours. It should double in size and look beautifully airy, a promise of soft rolls to come.

Step 5: Blend the Cream Cheese

While the dough works its magic, grab your cream cheese and beat it until smooth and creamy. Using an electric mixer makes it easy, but a good strong arm does the job too. This is the secret to that dreamy cheesecake swirl that sets your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe apart.

Step 6: Add the Other Ingredients

Into your creamy base, add the sugar, vanilla, a spoonful of flour, and the sour cream or Greek yogurt. Beat until fully combined—the texture should be thick, spreadable, and luxurious. Set this aside for rolling time.

Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

Quick and classic: in a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This is the secret to that Cinnabon aroma you know and love.

Step 8: Prepare the Butter

Make sure your butter is soft (but not melted), so it spreads easily over the dough. If you need to, pop it in the microwave for just a few seconds—spreadability is key for even layers!

Step 9: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has risen, gently deflate it and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 16×12 inches. Aim for even thickness here, so your cheesecake and cinnamon fillings sit nicely inside every roll.

Step 10: Spread the Butter

Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to slather that softened butter all over the dough, leaving a small border free along the edges for easier sealing later.

Step 11: Add the Cheesecake Filling

Spoon the cheesecake mixture in dollops and spread gently with a spatula. Don’t go right to the edge—it’ll expand and swirl as the rolls bake. This step is what makes your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe outrageously rich in every bite.

Step 12: Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar

Now scatter your cinnamon sugar mix right on top of the cheesecake layer. It caramelizes as it bakes, infusing the whole roll with spice and sweetness.

Step 13: Roll Up the Dough

Starting from the long edge, roll the whole thing up into a tight log. Go slowly and keep the roll snug—this helps create that signature swirl. Don’t forget to pinch the seam closed!

Step 14: Cut the Rolls

Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice your log into 12 even pieces. This keeps your pretty layers tidy. Place each roll cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 15: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the filled dish loosely and let your rolls rise a second time for 30-45 minutes, until they’re puffed up and touching. This is a make-or-break moment for light, feathery rolls!

Step 16: Preheat the Oven

While your pan of beauties is rising, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, as soon as they finish proofing, they go straight into a hot oven for perfect lift and color.

Step 17: Bake

Bake your rolls for 25-30 minutes—golden, lofty, and gooey. If you notice browning a bit too early, lay a sheet of foil on top so the centers cook through without over-browning.

Step 18: Cool Slightly

Once baked, let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. They’ll set just enough to hold their shape but still be warm for icing and topping.

Step 19: Mix the Icing

Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar, vanilla, a pinch of salt, and just enough milk to make it ultra creamy and spreadable. This icing is rich, tangy, and melts beautifully over warm rolls.

Step 20: Drizzle or Spread

Generously spread or drizzle the icing over the still-warm rolls. It’ll hug those cinnamon swirls, seeping into every nook and cranny, making your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe completely irresistible.

Step 21: Slice the Strawberries

Cut fresh strawberries into thin slices, and if you like a little extra sweetness, toss them with a tablespoon of sugar until they glisten.

Step 22: Top the Rolls

Arrange the juicy strawberries on top of your iced rolls. They burst with color and flavor, cutting through the richness perfectly. Serve immediately for the freshest taste!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few more fresh strawberry slices on each roll make for a gorgeous presentation. You can even add a little shaved white chocolate or a mint leaf if you want to get fancy. The extra garnishes don’t just pretty up the plate—they highlight all the flavors tucked inside.

Side Dishes

Balance your sweet masterpiece with something cool and light like a dollop of unsweetened Greek yogurt or a bowl of mixed berries. If you’re serving these for brunch, strong coffee or a refreshing mimosa will make the experience feel truly special. These rolls steal the show, but thoughtful sides really make the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe as a playful pull-apart tray for brunch parties—everyone loves picking their favorite swirl! Or cut the rolls smaller for a dainty dessert option at afternoon tea. For gift-giving, nestle them in a parchment-lined bakery box, topped with a ribbon for a sweet homemade treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra rolls (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors mingle and become even more delicious overnight—just be sure to let them cool before sealing to keep the tops from getting soggy.

Freezing

The Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is a fantastic make-ahead treat. To freeze, cool baked (but un-iced) rolls completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil. They’ll keep for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm and frost as if they were just made!

Reheating

Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, or tuck the whole pan in a low oven (300°F) until warmed through. To keep them moist, you can tent with foil and add a tiny splash of water in the pan. Add strawberries just before serving for the freshest flair.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the frozen strawberries well before slicing and using as a topping. They’ll still give you vibrant flavor and color, though fresh strawberries offer a little more texture and brightness.

How can I make the dough in advance?

To prep the dough ahead, make it through the first rise, then refrigerate overnight. The next day, bring it to room temperature before rolling out, filling, and shaping. This makes your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe easy and stress-free for morning baking.

Can I make these dairy-free?

You can experiment with dairy-free substitutes! Use your favorite plant-based milk, non-dairy butter, and cream cheese alternatives. The texture may vary, but you’ll still get those luscious swirls and flavors.

Why did my rolls turn out dense or tough?

This usually happens if the dough is over-floured or under-kneaded. Next time, add just enough flour for a soft dough, knead for a full 8-10 minutes, and ensure your yeast is active and fresh for that signature fluffy Cinnabon texture.

Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Definitely! A stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading much easier—mix on medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic. It’s a great way to simplify the process when making the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe for a crowd.

Final Thoughts

There’s pure magic in every bite of these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe. Whether you bake them for brunch, holidays, or just because, they have a way of making ordinary days feel special. Bake a batch soon—you’ll be hooked from the very first swirl!

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