Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling); 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for filling); 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for spreading); 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); 4 ounces cream cheese (for icing); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing); 1 to 2 tablespoons whole milk, as needed; Pinch of salt (for icing)

by Vincent

Published on: December 10, 2025

Delicious strawberry cheesecake Cinnabon rolls topped with cream cheese frosting

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Indulge in the irresistible warmth of Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, a delightful fusion of soft, fluffy rolls and creamy cheesecake goodness, topped with vibrant strawberries. As the rolls bake, your kitchen will fill with the inviting aroma of cinnamon and sugar, drawing everyone in. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, these rolls celebrate the flavors of the season and make for an easy yet impressive treat that’s sustainable by using fresh, local strawberries. Get ready to enjoy a comforting dessert that’s sure to be a hit!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to festive holiday gatherings. Their blend of flavors and textures will impress family and friends, making them an ideal centerpiece for your dessert table. The convenience of combining familiar ingredients with a delicious twist means you can whip these up easily, satisfying everyone’s sweet tooth. Versatile enough to be enjoyed warm for breakfast or as a comforting dessert, these rolls are destined to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

This recipe highlights the beauty of fresh, local strawberries, which provide a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. The strawberries, bursting with vibrant reds and juicy texture, enhance the rolls’ visual appeal while adding a refreshing element to each bite. The aroma of cinnamon combined with the richness of cream cheese creates a tantalizing sensory experience. By using seasonal ingredients, you’re not only prioritizing freshness but also supporting sustainable practices and local farmers, making these rolls a mindful choice for your kitchen!

What You’ll Need

2 cups all-purpose flour — for creating soft, fluffy rolls
1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm — activates the yeast for optimal rise
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast — ensures the rolls are light and airy
1/4 cup granulated sugar — sweetens the dough beautifully
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened — adds richness and moisture
1 large egg — binds the ingredients together
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract — for a lovely aromatic touch
1/2 teaspoon salt — enhances the overall flavor
8 ounces cream cheese, softened — provides a creamy filling
1/4 cup granulated sugar — sweetens the cheesecake filling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract — enhances the filling’s profile
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour — stabilizes the cheesecake mixture
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt — adds creaminess and tang
1/2 cup packed brown sugar — gives a deeper sweetness
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon — the warming spice that defines this recipe
1/4 teaspoon salt — balances sweetness in the filling
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened — for spreading on the dough
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced — vibrant topping for freshness
1 tablespoon sugar (optional) — enhances the strawberries’ sweetness
4 ounces cream cheese, softened — for the icing
1/2 cup powdered sugar — sweetens the icing
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract — for flavoring the icing
1 to 2 tablespoons whole milk, as needed — adjusts the icing consistency
Pinch of salt — to round out the flavors

Substitutions include using almond flour for gluten-free options or opting for dairy-free cream cheese.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Prepare the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine lukewarm whole milk and active dry yeast. Stir until dissolved and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy to activate. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and fragrant!

2. Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, incorporate a small amount of flour to maintain a soft texture. The dough should feel silky to your touch.

4. Let It Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in volume. This is where the magic happens!

5. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until creamy. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream or Greek yogurt; beat until smooth and well-combined. Set aside for later. The rich, creamy filling should be silky.

6. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, mix packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Soften butter until spreadable but not melted. This mixture will add a delightful sweetness to your rolls.

7. Roll the Dough

After the first rise, punch down the dough to remove air. Roll out on a floured surface into a 16 x 12-inch rectangle. Evenly spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a border. Spread cheesecake filling over the buttered area, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon sugar mixture.

8. Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Arrange in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spacing closely.

9. Second Rise

Cover the dish loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and allow the rolls to rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffed and touching one another. They should look fluffy and slightly larger.

10. Preheat and Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the risen rolls for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before icing.

11. Prepare the Icing

Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Gradually add whole milk, a tablespoon at a time, until a smooth, spreadable consistency is reached. The icing should be creamy and irresistible.

12. Top with Strawberries

Spread or drizzle cream cheese icing evenly across warm rolls to allow it to melt into the surface. Thinly slice fresh strawberries and toss them with sugar if additional sweetness is desired. Gently arrange the sliced strawberries over the iced rolls for a fresh, vibrant topping. The colors make for a stunning presentation!

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls — for combining ingredients
Measuring cups and spoons — to ensure accurate quantities
Rolling pin — for rolling out the dough
Sharp knife or dental floss — for slicing the rolls neatly
9 x 13-inch baking dish — to bake the rolls evenly
Electric mixer — for easy mixing of the cheesecake filling
Plastic wrap or towel — for covering dough during rising

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

Make-Ahead Options: You can prepare the rolls the night before. Once shaped, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze baked rolls after cooling. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F to regain their warmth and softness.

Perfect Pairings

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea. For breakfast, serve with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon to balance the sweetness. You can also highlight the strawberry theme with a fresh fruit salad or a side of yogurt for a colorful brunch spread. The gorgeous colors and aromas of each dish create an inviting table setting that everyone will love.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry

If your dough feels dry and crumbly, add a splash of lukewarm milk until it becomes pliable and smooth.

Cream Cheese Too Cold

Ensure your cream cheese is softened and at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, creamy filling.

Unevenly Shaped Rolls

Use a sharp knife or dental floss for even slicing, which helps the rolls bake uniformly and rise beautifully.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Kneading: Getting the dough to the right elasticity is key; it should feel smooth and bounce back lightly when poked.
Oven Temperature: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake; if necessary, rotate the baking dish halfway through for even cooking.
Flavor Boost: Add zest from a lemon or a dash of almond extract to the cheesecake filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture for added crunch.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate version.
Berry Mix-Up: Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries, or use a mix for a colorful, berry-filled treat.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

For dietary restrictions, consider making these rolls vegan by using almond milk, a flax egg, and dairy-free cream cheese. Gluten-free flour blends can also be a suitable substitute for all-purpose flour. Always check for potential allergens and adjust accordingly; for example, replace milk with a dairy-free option if lactose intolerant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them as a topping.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any uneaten rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the dough the night before, then shape the rolls and allow them to rise in the morning before baking.

Why did my rolls not rise properly?

If your rolls didn’t rise, ensure your yeast is fresh and that the milk was warm but not too hot, which could kill the yeast.

How can I make the filling more flavorful?

For a flavor boost, consider adding citrus zest or spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the cheesecake filling.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Make these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls the centerpiece of your next gathering or simply enjoy them on a cozy weekend morning. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, and tag us with your delicious results! For more delightful dessert recipes, check out our other sweet treats here: {internal_link_1}. Happy baking!