Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls combine two beloved treats into one irresistibly flavorful bite that will have you coming back for more. These rolls blend the creamy, tangy richness of cheesecake with the warm, sweet spices of cinnamon, all wrapped in soft, fluffy dough topped with fresh strawberry glaze. Whether you’re craving a delightful breakfast, a decadent snack, or a sweet dessert, Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls offer a unique, unforgettable experience that brings the best of both flavors in every mouthwatering swirl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect blend of flavors: Creamy cheesecake and cinnamon unite beautifully to create a harmonious taste sensation.
Soft, fluffy texture: The dough is tender and light, making each roll melt in your mouth.
Fresh strawberry glaze: A vibrant, fruity touch that brightens every bite and adds delightful sweetness.
Impressive yet easy: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is straightforward and approachable for bakers of all levels.
Versatile for any occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to enhance taste, create a perfect texture, and offer a beautiful color contrast. Using quality staples and fresh strawberries makes all the difference in bringing these rolls alive.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the rolls soft and airy.
Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness without overpowering other flavors.
Active dry yeast: Essential for the dough’s rise and light texture.
Milk: Adds moisture for a tender crumb.
Unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps create a flaky, buttery dough.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake swirl, adding smooth creaminess.
Fresh strawberries: Used in the glaze for natural sweetness and vibrant pink color.
Cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy notes that perfectly complement the cream cheese.
Eggs: Bind the dough and enrich its flavor.
Powdered sugar: For icing, offering a silky, smooth finish over the rolls.

Variations for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Feel free to make these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls your own by experimenting with variations. Whether to suit dietary needs, introduce new flavors, or simply switch things up, these tweaks are easy and fun to try.

Vegan option: Substitute dairy with plant-based cream cheese and milk alternatives for a dairy-free treat.
Gluten-free twist: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls accessible for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Mixed berries glaze: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for an extra fruity glaze complexity.
Nut topping: Add crushed pecans or almonds on top for a crunchy contrast to the soft roll.
Chocolate drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate complements the strawberry and cheesecake beautifully.

Why Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Delight

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Activate your yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Combine flour, sugar, salt, eggs, and melted butter, then gradually mix in the yeast mixture until a soft dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic, then let it rise until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and a touch of vanilla extract until creamy. This smooth, tangy filling will be spread generously inside the cinnamon rolls for that cheesecake magic.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the surface, then sprinkle cinnamon and sugar. Roll tightly from one end, then slice into evenly sized rolls.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Place sliced rolls into a greased pan, cover, and let rise again briefly. Bake at the recommended temperature until golden brown and bubbly, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

Simmer fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar to create a bright, sweet glaze. Strain if desired for a smooth finish that you’ll pour generously over the warm rolls.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the strawberry glaze and a light dusting of powdered sugar or a cream cheese icing for that perfect finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Use room temperature ingredients: Ensures smoother dough and cream cheese filling consistency.
Don’t rush the rising times: Proper yeast activity is key for soft, fluffy rolls.
Chill the cream cheese filling: It blends better and spreads more easily when slightly chilled.
Roll tightly but not too tight: Prevents filling spilling out but keeps the dough light.
Fresh strawberries matter: Use ripe, seasonal strawberries for the best natural flavor in your glaze.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Top your rolls with fresh strawberry slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a swirl of whipped cream for a beautiful, inviting presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a side of fresh berries, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or even a cup of lightly brewed coffee or tea to complement the sweetness and richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls on a rustic wooden board for a cozy feel, or plate individually with a drizzle of extra glaze and a sprig of mint to impress your guests visually and taste-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked or baked rolls separately by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag; they can be stored for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

Rewarm refrigerated or frozen rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave briefly, to restore that fresh-from-the-oven softness and warmth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the glaze?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen strawberries before cooking them into the glaze to avoid excess moisture diluting the flavor.

How long does it take to make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls?

From start to finish, including rising and baking times, expect about 2.5 to 3 hours for the complete process.

Can I substitute regular cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese?

Absolutely, Neufchâtel cheese works well and has a lower fat content but maintains the creamy texture needed for the cheesecake filling.

Are these rolls suitable for breakfast or dessert?

Definitely both! Their balanced sweetness and rich flavor make them perfect for a morning treat or a special sweet ending after dinner.

Do I need a stand mixer to make the dough?

No, making the dough by hand with a sturdy bowl and some elbow grease works perfectly fine, though a stand mixer can make the process quicker and easier.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a dessert or breakfast treat; they’re a celebration of luscious flavors and comforting textures all swirled into one. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or enjoying a moment of indulgence for yourself, these rolls offer a delightful experience that’s sure to become your new favorite. So go ahead, bake a batch, and watch how quickly they disappear — trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Print Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls combine the creamy tanginess of cheesecake with warm cinnamon spices, wrapped in a soft, fluffy dough and topped with a fresh strawberry glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these irresistible rolls offer a unique and mouthwatering swirl of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Author: Mary
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours
Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt

Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Strawberry Glaze

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)

Toppings (Optional)

Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh strawberry slices
Whipped cream

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, eggs, and melted butter. Gradually add the yeast mixture and stir until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside, chilling slightly to improve spreadability.
Roll and Fill: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 16×12 inches. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon and granulated sugar mixture over the cream cheese layer. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls.
Bake the Rolls: Place the sliced rolls into a greased baking pan, leaving a small gap between each. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until puffed. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
Prepare the Strawberry Glaze: While the rolls bake, simmer the fresh strawberries with sugar and optional lemon juice over medium heat. Cook until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Strain the glaze if a smooth texture is desired. Let cool slightly.
Finish and Serve: After baking, allow the rolls to cool for 10 minutes. Generously drizzle with the strawberry glaze. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or spread a light cream cheese icing. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother dough and filling consistency.
Do not rush the rising times to ensure light, fluffy rolls.
Chill the cheesecake filling slightly to make spreading easier.
Roll the dough tightly but avoid squeezing out the filling.
Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor in the glaze.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 350
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: strawberry, cheesecake, cinnamon rolls, breakfast, dessert, sweet rolls, cream cheese, glaze, baking