Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

If you’re searching for a truly show-stopping breakfast treat or a dazzling dessert, this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is about to steal your heart. Imagine pillowy homemade rolls layered with tangy cheesecake, swirled with classic cinnamon sugar, then crowned with creamy icing and fresh strawberries. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures, thanks to the perfect marriage of Cinnabon nostalgia with strawberry cheesecake goodness. Whether you’re whipping these up for a special brunch or just craving a little extra sweetness, this recipe promises a bakery-level experience from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are some staple ingredients plus a handful of fresh components to create pure magic. Each element plays a crucial role in the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe, so don’t overlook the details—they’re the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture, rich taste, and picture-perfect finish. Here’s what you’ll need for each delicious layer:

• All-Purpose Flour: The strong backbone for your dough, yielding soft rolls with the right structure and fluffiness.
• Whole Milk: Using lukewarm milk helps activate the yeast and gives the dough a rich, tender crumb.
• Active Dry Yeast: This is what gives your rolls their beautiful rise; be sure it’s fresh and active for best results.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to both the dough and the cheesecake filling.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter keeps the dough tender and the cinnamon filling melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Egg: The single egg binds the dough and contributes a lovely golden color and richness.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla ensures aromatic depth throughout both the dough and the fillings.
• Salt: Essential for balancing the sweet flavors and enhancing the delicate textures.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling and icing, lending tang and creaminess you can’t miss.
• All-Purpose Flour (Filling): Helps stabilize the creamy cheesecake filling so it stays luscious, not runny.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds an extra level of creaminess and a pleasant tang to the cheesecake layer.
• Brown Sugar: Paired with cinnamon, it creates that classic gooey swirl you expect from a perfect Cinnabon roll.
• Ground Cinnamon: Don’t skimp here—the fragrant warmth is essential to the signature flavor profile.
• Fresh Strawberries: The fresh, juicy topping offers a colorful burst of summery sweetness; choose ripe berries!
• Powdered Sugar: For silky-smooth cream cheese icing that provides the perfect final drizzle.
• Whole Milk (Icing): Adjusts the consistency of your icing so you can drizzle or spread as desired.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe by activating the yeast. Combine lukewarm whole milk and active dry yeast in a small bowl, giving it a gentle stir. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy—this is the sign that your yeast is alive and ready to do its magic! In a large mixing bowl, whisk your flour, granulated sugar, and salt, then create a well in the center. Pour in your bubbly yeast mixture, softened butter, a cracked egg, and a touch of vanilla extract. Work everything together with a wooden spoon or by hand. Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, aiming for a smooth and elastic texture. Pop the dough into a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise somewhere warm for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Making the Cheesecake Filling

Now, while the dough is rising, focus on the creamy element that really sets the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe apart. With an electric mixer, whip your softened cream cheese until smooth. Next, add in the sugar, vanilla extract, a spoonful of flour, and either sour cream or Greek yogurt—whichever you prefer for tang and structure. Beat the mixture until it’s dreamy and luscious, then set it aside. This will become the decadent layer inside your rolls.

Step 3: Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl, blend brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This simple mixture is the secret to a warm, gooey center. Make sure your butter is super soft but not melted; a gentle zap in the microwave can help. You’ll be spreading this later to ensure every bite is full of that classic Cinnabon flavor.

Step 4: Assembling the Rolls

Time to bring everything together! Turn your risen dough out on a floured surface, punch it down gently to release excess air, and roll it into a large rectangle (about 16 by 12 inches). Spread the softened butter over the dough, keeping a small border clear around the edges. Dollop and gently spread your cheesecake filling on top, being careful not to go all the way to the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly, then roll the dough up tightly from the long end, pinching to seal. Slice into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish, close but not crowded. Cover and let them rise one more time (about 30–45 minutes) until they’re puffed up and touch each other.

Step 5: Baking the Rolls

While your soon-to-be Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are having their final rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once they’re ready, bake for 25-30 minutes, keeping an eye out for that gorgeous golden-brown top—cover loosely with foil if things are browning too fast. Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes; this helps set the filling and keeps the icing from melting off completely.

Step 6: Preparing the Cream Cheese Icing

As the rolls cool, beat your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you have a silky, spreadable consistency. When you ice the slightly warm rolls, it turns irresistibly melty and rich—every bite is pure perfection!

Step 7: Preparing the Strawberry Topping

Slice up your fresh strawberries thinly (the more vibrant and ripe, the better). You can toss the slices with a bit of sugar if you want extra sweetness. Once your rolls are iced, arrange the strawberries across the top, letting the colors pop and the freshness shine. The combination of gooey roll, creamy icing, and juicy berries will wow everyone.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t stop at strawberries and icing! Consider dusting your rolls with a little extra powdered sugar, a sprig of mint for color, or even a handful of crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a mega boost of berry flavor. If you have a lemon handy, a quick zest over the top adds brightness and balances the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls shine on their own, but pairing them with a cup of bold coffee, creamy latte, or even a tangy mimosa can make breakfast feel like a celebration. For a weekend brunch spread, serve with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a simple fruit salad to round things out and cut the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For extra flair, try stacking the rolls on a tiered cake stand surrounded by strawberries for a festive gathering. Thinking ahead? Individually wrap rolls in parchment and tie with twine for delightful edible gifts. Or, make a showy dessert plate by slicing rolls into “pinwheels,” arranging them in a flower pattern, and topping with an extra drizzle of cream cheese icing and a few fresh berries.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers from your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. The filling and fresh strawberries mean these taste best within 2-3 days, and keeping them chilled preserves their creamy texture and berry brightness.

Freezing

To freeze the rolls for later, let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, don’t add the fresh strawberries until after thawing and reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a roll (or several) into a microwave-safe dish and warm for 20-30 seconds, or cover with foil and heat in a low oven (300°F) until soft and gooey again. Add a bit of fresh icing and strawberries for that just-baked finish.

FAQs

Can I make the dough the night before?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough through its first rise, shape the rolls, and place them in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and finish their second rise before baking as usual.

Can I substitute frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain frozen strawberries very well before slicing and placing them on top. Frozen berries may be a bit softer and juicier, but they’ll still add plenty of fresh strawberry flavor.

What if I don’t have sour cream or Greek yogurt?

If you’re in a pinch, plain full-fat yogurt makes a fine stand-in, or you can use a bit of heavy cream for richness. Just aim for a slightly tangy, creamy addition to balance the cheesecake layer.

Can I make this as a loaf or pull-apart bread instead of rolls?

Definitely! Spread the fillings over your rolled-out dough, then roll it up and place in a loaf pan or arrange pieces in a bundt pan for a fun pull-apart version. Baking time may vary a bit, so keep an eye on doneness.

Is this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe good for holidays and special occasions?

Without a doubt! This recipe is a true celebration centerpiece—whether for birthdays, Mother’s Day, Easter brunch, or any gathering where you want to wow friends and family with something extra delightful.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a reason to brighten your kitchen and surprise your loved ones, this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is the ticket. The combination of creamy cheesecake, juicy strawberries, classic cinnamon swirl, and fluffy homemade dough is irresistible. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a cherished family favorite. Happy baking!

Print