I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to share this recipe for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls! It kind of combines my two favorite things: the classic gooey delight of Cinnabon rolls and the sweet, tangy goodness of strawberry cheesecake. I remember the first time I made these heavenly rolls; it was a rainy Saturday, and I was trapped inside with a craving for something sweet. After rummaging through my pantry and improvising a bit, I ended up with these delightful treats, and they have become a favorite ever since!
The swirls of cream cheese filling blended with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of vanilla glaze create a mouthful of joy that reminds me of summery picnics. It’s like biting into a cloud! Plus, if you feel like indulging yourself or impressing friends and family, these rolls are sure to be a hit. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely make your kitchen smell heavenly.
What’s in Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls?
All-Purpose Flour: The base for our rolls, providing the perfect elasticity for those soft and fluffy buns. I usually opt for unbleached flour, which has a bit more flavor.
Yeast: The magic ingredient that helps our rolls rise and get that fluffy texture. Active dry yeast works perfectly, but make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Sugar: We’ll use granulated sugar both for sweetness in the dough and to enhance the flavors in the filling. A little sugar goes a long way in making things delicious!
Salt: Just a pinch adds balance and brings out the sweetness of the other ingredients; it’s amazing how this little powerhouse ingredient works.
Milk: Warm milk is used in the dough, giving it a wonderful tenderness. Whole milk is my go-to for a richer flavor, but you can use whatever you have on hand!
Butter: This adds flavor and richness to the rolls. I love using unsalted butter so that I can control the saltiness.
Cream Cheese: The heart of our cheesecake filling! I always use full-fat cream cheese for that rich, creamy decadence.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries sliced to create that sweet and tart filling. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen ones will suffice—just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
Powdered Sugar: For the glaze that finishes off our rolls! This adds a lovely sweetness while giving that beautiful glossy finish.
Is Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Good for You?
While these rolls are definitely a treat, moderation is key, especially because they are a rich indulgence! Let’s take a look at some of the ingredients and their benefits:
Strawberries: These bright berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a delightful addition to our rolls. They can help boost your immune system and are also great for your skin!
Cream Cheese: While it adds richness, opt for lower-fat varieties if you’re keeping an eye on calorie intake. Just remember, enjoying these rolls once in a while as a special treat is totally fine!
Overall, these rolls are not something you’ll eat every day but are perfect for a weekend indulgence or a special occasion.
Ingredients
To serve 12 rolls, you will need:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
– 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy.
2. Add 2 cups of flour, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Fold in the chopped strawberries gently.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cream cheese and strawberry filling evenly over the dough.
6. Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log and cut it into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and cover with a towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown.
8. While the rolls are baking, whip up the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over them while they are still warm. Enjoy the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen!
Sweet Tips & Serving Suggestions
You can personalize these rolls in so many ways! Add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a refreshing twist. You might also try mixing in some chocolate chips for a decadent spin!
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are perfect for brunch but can also make a lovely dessert. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream—whatever floats your boat!
I hope you’ll give these a try. They’ve become a staple in my kitchen, and I just know they will soon be a favorite in yours too. When you do make them, I’d love to hear how they turn out! Share your thoughts, tweaks, or even a photo of your own scrumptious rolls. Happy baking!
