Introduction

Imagine waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, infused with the sweet essence of strawberries and a creamy cheesecake filling. This delightful twist on a classic combines the best of both worlds, bringing together the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the delicious flavors of strawberry cheesecake. It's the perfect treat for brunch or a special dessert!

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are not only visually appealing but also a feast for the taste buds. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of buttery dough, ripe strawberries, and a rich cream cheese mixture, all drizzled with a light glaze. It's a recipe that will impress your family and friends, yet it remains accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
The base of the dough, all-purpose flour provides structure and elasticity, enabling the rolls to rise and hold their shape while maintaining a soft texture.
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps feed the yeast, aiding in the dough's rise while lending a golden color during baking.
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
The yeast is crucial for leavening the dough, creating those fluffy and airy rolls that are so desirable.
1/2 teaspoon salt
Salt enhances the flavor of the rolls and controls the fermentation rate of the yeast, ensuring an optimal rise.
1/2 cup milk, warmed
Warm milk activates the yeast and helps dissolve the sugar, creating a perfect environment for dough rising.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Butter adds richness and a delightful flavor to the rolls, contributing to their tender texture.
1 large egg
The egg enriches the dough and helps bind the ingredients together, lending a tender crumb to the finished rolls.
1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries
Fresh strawberries add a burst of fruity sweetness and moisture, creating a delicious filling that complements the cream cheese.
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese provides a rich and tangy filling that resembles classic cheesecake, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1/4 cup powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese filling, balancing the tanginess for a delicious contrast.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract flavored enhances both the dough and the filling, adding depth and warmth to each bite.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon infuses the rolls with aromatic warmth, a classic flavor pairing with sweet rolls and strawberries.
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Lemon juice adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the strawberries, ensuring a well-rounded filling.
1/2 cup icing, for drizzling (optional)
A light icing adds an extra touch of sweetness and decoration, making the rolls visually appealing and indulgent.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Activate the yeast.

Begin by warming your milk to about 110°F (43°C). This temperature is warm enough to activate the yeast without killing it. Dissolve the sugar into the warm milk and then sprinkle the yeast on top, allowing it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy—this indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these ingredients before combining with wet helps ensure that the salt is evenly distributed and the cinnamon permeates the dough. This step is crucial for flavor consistency throughout the rolls.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients and form the dough.

After the yeast has activated, whisk in the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract into the yeast mixture. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the rolls tender. Transfer the dough to a floured surface to knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let the dough rise.

Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, roughly 1 hour. This fermentation process is essential for achieving soft, fluffy rolls, as the yeast creates air pockets that expand the dough.

Step 5: Prepare the filling.

While the dough is rising, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and chopped strawberries in a bowl. It’s essential to ensure that the cream cheese is soft for easy blending. The strawberries should be pressed lightly to release their juices without making the mixture too runny.

Step 6: Roll out the dough.

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Evenness in thickness is important to ensure the rolls cook uniformly and achieve a similar rise, contributing to their appealing appearance.

Step 7: Spread the filling on the dough.

Evenly spread the prepared cream cheese and strawberry filling over the rolled dough. Leaving a small border along the edges will prevent the filling from spilling out while rolling and during baking, which can lead to messy rolls.

Step 8: Roll and cut the dough.

Starting from one end, gently roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the log into rolls. Ensuring that the slices are even allows them to bake uniformly, creating those iconic swirls.

Step 9: Second rise of the rolls.

Place the sliced rolls into a greased baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy and touching. This step further develops texture and softness, essential for that fluffy, Cinnabon-style roll.

Step 10: Bake the rolls.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Be careful not to overbake; you want soft, fluffy rolls with a touch of color. An internal thermometer reading about 190°F (88°C) indicates they are done.

Step 11: Cool and drizzle icing.

Once baked, allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. If using icing, this is the perfect time to drizzle it over the warm rolls, as the heat will melt it slightly, allowing it to soak in and enhance the flavors of the strawberries and cream cheese.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls step photo

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When it comes to the filling, selecting ripe, fresh strawberries is vital for achieving vibrant flavor. Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant; they will not only taste sweeter but their natural juices will elevate your filling. If strawberries are out of season, you can also experiment with other fruits such as raspberries or blueberries.

Perfecting the Dough Texture

Achieving the right dough consistency is key to fluffy rolls. The dough should be soft but not sticky—if it feels sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour during kneading. It’s vital to avoid adding too much flour, as this can lead to dry rolls. A well-mixed and kneaded dough will have a smooth, elastic texture that helps trap air and rise well.

Serving and Enjoying Your Rolls

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are best enjoyed warm and right out of the oven. For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The delightful combination of textures and flavors will create a memorable experience for you and your guests, turning any breakfast or brunch into a festive occasion.

FAQs

What can I use if I don't have fresh strawberries?

If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use frozen strawberries, just make sure to thaw and drain them to remove excess moisture before adding to the filling.

Can I make these rolls without cream cheese?

Yes, you can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as alternatives to cream cheese for a slightly different flavor profile while still achieving creamy filling.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is excessively sticky, knead in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency while remaining soft.

How can I tell when my rolls are fully baked?

To check if your rolls are done, look for a golden-brown appearance and use an instant-read thermometer; they should be around 190°F (88°C) internally.

Can I add nuts to the filling?

Certainly! Adding finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling can add crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the strawberries well.

What happens if my rolls turn out dense?

If your rolls are dense, it might be due to not allowing enough time for rising or using old yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and give the dough ample time to rise.

Conclusion

Baking these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The prize is a deliciously indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether shared with loved ones or savored during a quiet moment alone.

Once you master this recipe, feel free to experiment further with flavors or toppings. The joy of baking lies not only in following a recipe but in making it your own. Enjoy each bite of your creations—it's a journey worth savoring!

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