Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Dreaming of something that combines the cozy warmth of cinnamon rolls with the irresistible charm of strawberry cheesecake? These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are pure magic—soft, fluffy, and swirled with juicy strawberries and creamy glaze. Whether you’re in need of a quick weekend treat or a show-stopping brunch centerpiece, this recipe comes together without fuss and fills your kitchen with the most welcoming, bakery-style aroma. It’s a delicious way to brighten up any busy day—no need for fancy ingredients or special skills!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor Fusion: This recipe brings together two absolute favorites—cheesecake and cinnamon rolls—in every swirl. Imagine a tender roll filled with gooey, bright strawberry jam, fresh berries, warm cinnamon, and all crowned with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese glaze.
• Surprisingly Simple: The dough is easy to work with, and you don’t need any advanced baking experience. Most of the prep is hands-off, so you’re free to take care of other things while the dough rises.
• Perfect for Quick Comfort: You get all the decadence of bakery-style rolls but at home, ready warm in just about an hour and a half (most of it waiting!). They’re quick enough for a cozy weekday breakfast, but feel special enough for guests.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone—kids, friends, and adults alike—will want a second roll before you know it. This is the kind of treat that brings people running to the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the rolls and glaze ahead of time, so fresh-baked breakfast or dessert is always within reach.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Whole Milk: Used warm to activate the yeast; this keeps the rolls so soft and rich.
• Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the dough and help the yeast do its magic.
• Active Dry Yeast: Gives rise to the dough, making it fluffy and light. Let it bloom for best results!
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of your rolls. Start with most, and use extra for kneading and rolling.
• Egg: Adds extra tenderness and richness to the dough.
• Butter: For a decadent, bakery-worthy result, go for the real thing—softened to blend in easily.
• Vanilla Extract: A hint in the dough and the glaze brings out those dessert-like flavors.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Seedless Strawberry Jam: The star here! Adds bright, tangy-sweet fruitiness without making the dough soggy.
• Fresh Strawberries: For fresh bursts of berry in every bite. Chop them small for easy rolling.
• Ground Cinnamon: Classic warmth—don’t skip this!
• Cream Cheese: For that luscious, signature cheesecake-style glaze.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: Whips up to a silky-smooth glaze that drapes over the rolls beautifully.
• Whole Milk and Butter (for Glaze): Both add creaminess and help the glaze spread perfectly.

Tip: Use the juiciest, ripest strawberries you can find—those flavor pops are worth it!

Variations

• Berry Swap: Try raspberry or blueberry preserves instead of strawberry for a fun twist.
• Extra Cheesecake Filling: Mix softened cream cheese and a touch of sugar, and spread it alongside the jam for a double-creamy swirl.
• Dough Shortcuts: Use store-bought refrigerated pizza dough if you’re really pressed for time. It won’t be quite as soft, but it’s still tasty!
• Vegan Variation: Substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free treat.
• Nutty Touch: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling for extra crunch.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In the bowl of a stand mixer, stir together the warm whole milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top—let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until foamy and activated.

Step 2: Make the Dough

On medium speed, mix in most of the flour, the egg, softened butter, vanilla, and salt. The dough should come together and pull away from the sides—add a little extra flour if it’s sticky. Knead just until smooth and springy.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until it’s doubled. This is your moment to relax!

Step 4: Roll Out and Fill

Sprinkle your board with flour and roll the dough into a big rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. In a small bowl, stir together the strawberry jam, fresh chopped berries, and cinnamon. With a spatula, spread this mixture all over the dough—get it right to the edges for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Slice the rectangle into 8 long strips. Starting at the far edge, roll each strip up tightly—don’t fret if a little filling leaks out, that just means even more flavor on the bottom! Nestle the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise while you preheat the oven.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 350°F for 35 to 38 minutes, until puffed and golden at the edges. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Beat together the cream cheese and butter, then gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and spreadable. Swirl over the warm rolls. Serve immediately for ultimate gooeyness.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be patient with your yeast: Let it get nice and foamy before moving on—this sets the foundation for those pillowy rolls.
• Gentle with the berries: Chop berries small and don’t overfill, so the rolls stay tight and easy to slice.
• Don’t skimp on rise time: Underproofed rolls won’t reach that ideal soft, fluffy texture.
• Spread the glaze while warm: This way it pools perfectly into all the swirls.

How to Serve

Serve these strawberry cheesecake cinnamon rolls warm, fresh out of the oven, when the glaze is gooey and the berries are bursting. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a tall glass of cold milk. For brunch, add a side of crisp bacon or a fruit salad. For dessert, try a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side—a heavenly match!

If you’d like to impress, dust with a little extra confectioners’ sugar and top with a few fresh strawberry slices right before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover rolls tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay surprisingly soft even when made ahead.

Freezing

Wrap individual rolls—or the entire batch—well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as desired.

Reheating

Warm single rolls in the microwave for 10-20 seconds, or cover the whole pan and reheat in a low oven (about 300°F) until soft and warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Instant yeast works just as well—mix it right in with your dry ingredients; no need to proof. The rise time might shorten a touch, so check on your dough a little earlier.

What’s the best way to slice the dough without squishing the rolls?
A sharp knife works, but dental floss (plain, not flavored!) is even better for clean, non-squashed rolls. Just slip the floss under the dough, cross the ends, and pull tight for a perfect cut.

Can I prepare these rolls the night before and bake in the morning?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and finish rising for about 30 minutes before baking as usual.

Is it okay to use frozen strawberries?
Frozen berries can work in a pinch; thaw and drain them well first, then chop before adding. Too much extra moisture can make your filling runny, so be sure they’re not too wet.

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself (and your loved ones) to the pure joy that is a batch of Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls. Simple to make but utterly decadent, they’re the best of both worlds—comforting, beautiful, and unbelievably delicious. Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!

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