Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the gooey, cinnamon-swirled magic of classic Cinnabon rolls with the creamy decadence of cheesecake and the fresh burst of strawberries, then these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are about to become your new obsession. Imagine soft, fluffy dough rolled around a luscious cream cheese filling, sweetened strawberries, and a hint of cinnamon — baked to golden perfection and finished with a buttery glaze and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, dessert, or an indulgent snack, these rolls are guaranteed to brighten any day.

Reasons to Love Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

There are so many reasons these rolls deserve a spot in your baking repertoire:

• Unique flavor combo: The classic cinnamon roll gets a fresh makeover with strawberry and cheesecake filling.
• Soft, pillowy dough: Made with simple pantry ingredients for a tender crumb that’s perfect for rolling and slicing.
• Versatile: Enjoy them warm right out of the oven or chilled for a creamy, refreshing treat.
• Optional savory twist: Crumbled turkey bacon adds a surprising savory contrast that’s totally crave-worthy.
• Perfect for sharing: A batch makes about 8 rolls—ideal for brunch gatherings or a special family treat.

What You’ll Gather

Before you start, make sure you have these ingredients on hand:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk, warmed (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup strawberries, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, for brushing
• Additional powdered sugar, for dusting

Equipment Breakdown

To get these rolls perfectly baked and beautifully presented, gather the following:

• Mixing bowls: For combining dough and filling ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters in baking!
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional): Makes kneading easier but you can also knead by hand.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
• Baking pan (8×8-inch or similar): For baking the rolls snugly together.
• Sharp knife or dental floss: For slicing the rolled dough into even pieces.
• Pastry brush: To brush melted butter on the rolls.

Step-by-Step: Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active and ready.

Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 1 cup of flour. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for 7-8 minutes. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While the dough rises, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 12×8 inches.

4. Assemble the Rolls

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the diced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese. Lightly dust the strawberries with cinnamon to enhance their natural sweetness.

If you’re feeling adventurous and craving a savory contrast, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled turkey bacon evenly over the strawberries.

5. Roll and Slice

Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the log into 8 even rolls.

6. Second Rise

Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

7. Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter to encourage a golden crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.

8. Finish and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and brush them again with melted butter. Allow them to cool slightly, then dust with additional powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy warm for the best experience!

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• Blueberries or raspberries: Substitute for strawberries during off-season for a similar fresh berry burst.
• Peach slices: Perfect for summer, offering a juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with cream cheese.
• Apple cinnamon: Swap strawberries for thin apple slices with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for a classic twist.
• Pumpkin puree: Mix a little pumpkin puree into the cream cheese for a fall-inspired flair.
• Vegan cream cheese: Use a plant-based alternative to make these rolls dairy-free while keeping the creamy texture.

Notes on Ingredients

• Instant yeast: This type of yeast activates quickly and doesn’t require proofing in warm water first, making your prep faster.
• Milk: Warming the milk helps activate the yeast and creates a tender dough. Avoid overheating to prevent killing the yeast.
• Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth filling.
• Strawberries: Fresh and firm strawberries work best. Avoid overly ripe or mushy berries as they can make the filling watery.
• Turkey bacon: Optional but adds a delightful savory crunch that contrasts with the sweetness. Omit for a fully sweet version.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm. But if you need to store them:

• Room temperature: Keep covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before eating.

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, roll out, fill, slice, and allow a second rise before baking. This makes for a convenient morning treat.

What can I use instead of fresh strawberries?

If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries work well. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding to the filling. Alternatively, try other fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries.

Is it necessary to use turkey bacon, or can I skip it?

The turkey bacon is optional and meant to add a savory twist. You can skip it entirely for a purely sweet roll, or substitute with vegetarian bacon alternatives if you prefer.

How do I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?

Make sure to pat the strawberries dry before adding them to the filling and don’t overload the rolls with too much filling. Also, avoid cutting the rolls too early; letting them rise properly helps maintain their structure.

Try These Next

• Russian Cinnamon Buns Plushki – Another dreamy cinnamon roll recipe with a delightful Eastern European twist.
• Strawberry Banana Muffins – A quick and easy way to enjoy fresh fruit and sweet flavors in muffin form.

Make It Tonight

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen, especially when they come with the luscious creaminess of cheesecake and the bright sweetness of strawberries. These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are straightforward enough to whip up on a weeknight yet special enough to serve to guests or celebrate the weekend. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this irresistible treat tonight. You’ll thank yourself when you pull those golden, gooey rolls out of the oven!

The combination of cinnamon, cream cheese, and strawberries takes traditional cinnamon rolls to an entirely new level—soft, rich, and bursting with flavor. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or chilled for a cool, creamy bite, these rolls promise to be a standout addition to your baking lineup. Happy baking!

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