Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously unique twist on a classic treat? Our Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries, all wrapped up in soft, gooey cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk and egg. Add to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Roll out into a rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
2. Make the Cinnamon Roll Filling:
- Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter.
- Evenly distribute the chopped strawberries over the cinnamon sugar.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk, beating until well combined.
- Dollop the cheesecake filling evenly over the strawberry mixture, then gently swirl with a knife.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the long sides.
- Slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Glaze the Rolls:
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls
- Fresh Strawberries: Using fresh strawberries enhances the flavor, but you can also use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make it easier to blend with the other ingredients.
- Rolling the Dough: For easier rolling, lightly flour the surface and your rolling pin. Roll out the dough evenly to prevent uneven cinnamon rolls.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, with the creamy cheesecake filling adding a rich, indulgent touch. The soft, fluffy dough and juicy strawberries create a delightful texture and taste experience. Whether you’re serving them at a special brunch or enjoying them as a treat with your morning coffee, these rolls are sure to impress.
Conclusion
Treat yourself and your loved ones to a breakfast or dessert that’s both comforting and unique. Our Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love a delicious twist on classic cinnamon rolls!
Serving and Storage Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls
Serving Tips
- Warm and Fresh: For the best taste, enjoy these cinnamon rolls warm from the oven. They are especially delicious when the glaze is still slightly melted.
- Accompaniments: Serve with a side of fresh fruit, like additional strawberries or a berry compote, for a refreshing contrast. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
- Presentation: For a special touch, garnish with a few extra fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving. Arrange the rolls on a serving platter for an elegant presentation.
- Portioning: Cut the rolls into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats or serve them whole for a more indulgent experience. They’re great for sharing at brunches, holiday gatherings, or family breakfasts.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll remain soft and delicious, though the glaze may harden slightly.
- Refrigeration: If you need to store them for a longer period, keep the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Warm them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds to regain their softness.
- Freezing: To freeze, place cooled cinnamon rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating, or warm them directly from frozen in the microwave or oven.
- Reheating: Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. For best results, cover them with foil to prevent the tops from drying out.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls remain as delightful and fresh as the day they were made!
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture to prevent the dough from becoming soggy. Chop the strawberries into small pieces before adding them to the rolls.
2. Can I make the dough and filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. After making the dough, cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Similarly, prepare the filling and store it separately in the fridge. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out and proceed with the recipe as directed.
3. How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven to restore their softness before enjoying.
4. Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with another type of filling?
Yes, you can customize the filling according to your preferences. If you’d like to skip the cheesecake filling, try using a fruit spread, nut butter, or another type of sweet filling. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to match the consistency of your chosen filling.