Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe: 15 Easy Steps to Homemade Perfection

Learn how to make the best homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe with this easy, step-by-step guide. Perfect for beginners & packed with flavor!

Introduction

Indulge your taste buds with the ultimate breakfast treat that combines the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls with the luscious flavors of strawberry cheesecake. This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring a soft, pillowy dough swirled with strawberry filling and topped with a decadent cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re preparing a special weekend brunch or looking to impress guests, these rolls deliver the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and berry freshness in every bite.

The beauty of this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is that it captures the essence of both strawberry cheesecake and traditional cinnamon rolls, creating a hybrid dessert-breakfast that’s impossible to resist. The strawberry filling adds a bright, fruity element that perfectly complements the rich, creamy frosting and fluffy dough. Best of all, while they look and taste like they came from a professional bakery, you can easily make them in your own kitchen with simple ingredients and clear instructions from our detailed Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe.

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home on a lazy weekend morning. Now imagine that classic scent infused with the sweet fragrance of strawberries and the rich aroma of vanilla cheesecake. This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe elevates the traditional cinnamon roll experience to new heights by incorporating the beloved flavors of strawberry cheesecake into every spiral of dough.

The history of cinnamon rolls dates back centuries, with variations found across cultures worldwide. The modern American-style cinnamon roll, characterized by its fluffy texture and generous frosting, gained popularity in the early 20th century. Cinnabon, the famous mall kiosk chain that opened in 1985, revolutionized the cinnamon roll landscape with their oversized, gooey creations. Our Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe pays homage to these delectable treats while introducing innovative flavors that make them perfect for contemporary palates and special occasions like Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

• Decadently Delicious: This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe combines the best flavors of strawberry cheesecake and cinnamon rolls for an irresistible treat that satisfies both sweet cravings at once.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is ideal for holiday brunches, birthday breakfasts, or Valentine’s Day treats when you want to show someone you care through homemade baking.
• Better Than Store-Bought: Following this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe creates rolls that taste fresher and more flavorful than anything you can buy, with no preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• Beginner-Friendly: Despite the impressive results, this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is straightforward and accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone at the table will fall in love with these sweet, gooey strawberry-filled rolls – they’re particularly popular with children and those who enjoy fruity flavors.
• Customizable: This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is easy to adapt with different berries or filling variations to suit your taste preferences or what’s in season.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the night before and bake in the morning for fresh rolls without the early wake-up, making this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe perfect for busy hosts.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant red strawberry swirl and luscious cream cheese topping in this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe create a stunning visual that’s worthy of any celebration table.
• Balanced Flavor Profile: The slight tanginess of the cream cheese and strawberries balances perfectly with the sweetness of the dough and frosting in this perfectly crafted Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe.
• Year-Round Availability: Make this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe with fresh strawberries in summer or frozen berries in winter for a taste of sunshine any time of year.

This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe combines the comfort of traditional cinnamon rolls with the sophisticated flavors of strawberry cheesecake. The result is a breakfast or brunch dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, special enough for celebrations but simple enough for whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re an experienced baker looking to try something new or a beginner seeking to impress, this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe delivers exceptional results that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe requires quality ingredients that work together to deliver that signature flavor and texture. Each component in this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe plays a vital role in the final product, from the pillowy dough to the fruity filling and creamy topping. Let’s break down what you’ll need for each element of this delectable treat.

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the rolls; for a lighter texture, you can substitute up to 1 cup with cake flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps feed the yeast for proper rising
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors and strengthens the gluten network
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet) – The leavening agent that creates that fluffy texture
• 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F) – Activates the yeast; whole milk produces the richest results
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – Provide structure, moisture, and richness
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the sweet flavor and complements the strawberry

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries – The star ingredient that provides natural sweetness and fruity flavor
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the berries and helps create the jam-like consistency
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the filling to prevent it from leaking out during baking
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the strawberry flavor and helps preserve the vibrant color
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest – Adds complexity and enhances the strawberry flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened – Creates a richer filling and helps it adhere to the dough
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor and complements the cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Provides that classic cinnamon roll flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Provides the signature tangy cheesecake flavor
• 1/4 cup butter, softened – Creates a smooth, spreadable consistency
• 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth texture
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor and adds depth
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk – Adjusts consistency for perfect spreading
• Optional: 1-2 tablespoons strawberry jam for a pink-tinted frosting – Amplifies the strawberry flavor and adds visual appeal

this …

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips:

For a gluten-free Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The texture may be slightly different, but still delicious.

Want to make these rolls dairy-free? Replace butter with a plant-based butter substitute, use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, and select a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.

For a reduced-sugar version, you can cut the sugar in the dough by half and use a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia in the frosting. The strawberry filling naturally contains fruit sugars that will still provide sweetness.

Seasonal variations: In summer, use fresh, ripe strawberries for the most vibrant flavor. During off-seasons, frozen strawberries work perfectly and are often picked at peak ripeness.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe – Step by Step

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe is a labor of love that yields incredible results. This comprehensive guide breaks down each step of the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time. Follow these detailed instructions for bakery-worthy rolls right in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

The key to exceptional Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls is a flavorful, well-textured strawberry filling that’s neither too runny nor too thick.

1. In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt. If using frozen strawberries, there’s no need to thaw them first.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a simmer. As the strawberries warm, they’ll begin to release their juices.
3. Once simmering, mash some of the strawberries with a wooden spoon or potato masher while leaving some chunks for texture. This creates the perfect consistency with some berry pieces throughout.
4. Continue cooking for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and a line drawn through it with your finger remains clear.
5. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Refrigerate to speed up the cooling process. The filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
6. The filling should be completely cool before using it in your rolls to prevent melting the butter in the dough or causing the filling to leak out during baking.

Step 2: Make the Dough

The foundation of amazing homemade cinnamon rolls is a soft, pillowy dough that’s easy to work with.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Whisking these dry ingredients ensures even distribution of the yeast and salt.
2. In a separate microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, warm the milk to 105-115°F. It should feel warm to the touch but not hot. Temperature is crucial here—too hot will kill the yeast, while too cool won’t activate it properly.
3. Add warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. The butter should be melted but not hot when added.
4. Beat with an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook on low speed until combined, then switch to medium speed and beat for 3 minutes. This initial mixing develops the gluten structure.
5. Gradually stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl but still stick slightly to the bottom.
6. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. To test if it’s ready, press your finger into the dough—it should spring back slowly.
7. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. An ideal rising spot is a turned-off oven with the light on, which creates a draft-free warm environment.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Proper assembly ensures that your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls have beautiful swirls and even distribution of filling.

1. When the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release air bubbles and turn onto a lightly floured surface. Let it rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
2. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 18×12 inches. Use a ruler for precision, and aim for even thickness throughout—about 1/4 inch thick. Square off the edges as you go for a neat finish.
3. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create a light cinnamon mixture. The butter should be very soft but not melted for easy spreading without tearing the dough.
4. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. This border helps seal the roll when rolled up.
5. Carefully spread the cooled strawberry filling over the cinnamon layer. If your filling has thickened too much in the refrigerator, stir it briefly to loosen before spreading.
6. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log, moving slowly and applying even pressure. A tight roll ensures beautiful swirls and prevents gaps in your baked rolls.
7. Once rolled, pinch the seam and edges to seal, then position the roll seam-side down.
8. Using a sharp serrated knife, unflavored dental floss, or string, cut the log into 12 equal slices. For dental floss method: slide floss under the log, cross ends over the top, and pull to cut cleanly through the dough without squishing it.

Step 4: Second Rise and Baking

The second rise and proper baking technique are crucial for achieving soft, fluffy Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls.

1. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them evenly. You want them close enough to touch when fully risen but not crowded.
2. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size and puffy. The rolls should be touching or almost touching each other.
3. About 20 minutes before baking, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature.
4. Optional: Before baking, brush the tops lightly with cream or milk for a shiny, golden crust.
5. Bake in the center of the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and a thermometer inserted into the center roll reads 190°F.
6. If the tops are browning too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil after about 15 minutes of baking. This prevents over-browning while allowing the centers to cook completely.
7. Once baked, let the rolls cool in the pan on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before frosting. This brief cooling prevents the frosting from completely melting but still allows it to soften beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

The cream cheese frosting is what transforms these from ordinary cinnamon rolls into Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, so don’t skip this crucial component!

1. While the rolls are baking, in a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Both should be at room temperature to prevent lumps.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth consistency. Sift the powdered sugar first if it has lumps.
3. Mix in vanilla extract for flavor and enough heavy cream to reach your desired consistency. For a thicker frosting, use less cream; for a more glaze-like consistency, add a bit more.
4. For a strawberry-flavored frosting that enhances the cheesecake element, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of strawberry jam or finely chopped fresh strawberries. This adds a beautiful pink tint and boosts the berry flavor.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed. The frosting should be spreadable but not runny.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

The final touches make these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls truly irresistible.

1. While the rolls are still warm (but not hot), spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. A slightly warm roll will allow some of the frosting to melt into the crevices.
2. The heat will help the frosting melt slightly into the rolls for extra gooeyness, but if the rolls are too hot, the frosting will completely liquefy.
3. For an extra-special presentation, garnish with fresh strawberry slices, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, or finely grated lemon zest.
4. Allow the rolls to set for about 5 minutes after frosting before serving for the perfect texture.
5. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of strawberry, cheesecake, and cinnamon flavors that make these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls an extraordinary treat.
6. For the full experience, pair with a cup of coffee, hot tea, or a cold glass of milk to complement the sweet, tangy flavors of these decadent rolls.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Creating perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls requires attention to detail and some baker’s insights. These professional tips will help you achieve bakery-quality results and troubleshoot common issues.

Essential Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and dairy products are at room temperature for the best dough texture. Cold ingredients won’t incorporate properly and can prevent proper rising.
• Activate Yeast Properly: When combining yeast with warm milk, let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy before proceeding. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be dead, and you should start over with fresh yeast.
• Don’t Rush the Rising Process: Allow proper time for the dough to rise for light, fluffy rolls. Rising times are estimates—look for the dough to double in size rather than strictly following the clock. In cooler kitchens, rising may take longer.
• Chill the Filling: Make sure your strawberry filling is completely cooled before spreading it on the dough to prevent it from melting or leaking. A thicker filling is easier to work with and stays in place better.
• Cut with Precision: Use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife to cut clean slices without squishing the rolls. Dental floss creates the cleanest cuts without compressing the layers.
• Don’t Overbake: Pull the rolls from the oven when they’re golden brown, not deep brown. Overbaking will dry out the dough and make the rolls less tender.
• Use a Thermometer: For perfectly baked rolls, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 190°F when they’re done.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the rolls through the first rising and shaping, then refrigerate overnight for the second rise. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This “slow rise” method actually enhances flavor development.
• Freezer-Friendly: These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls freeze beautifully. Freeze them after baking but before frosting. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slightly before adding frosting.
• Individual Freezing: For single-serving convenience, freeze individual rolls wrapped in plastic and foil. Microwave a frozen roll for about 30-45 seconds for a quick treat.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

• Add Fresh Strawberries: For extra texture and fresh flavor, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh strawberries over the filling before rolling. This creates pockets of juicy berries throughout the rolls.
• Cream Cheese in the Filling: For an even more pronounced cheesecake flavor, mix 4 oz of softened cream cheese with the cinnamon-sugar mixture before spreading on the dough.
• Citrus Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a subtle citrus note that enhances the strawberry flavor.
• Vanilla Bean: Scrape a real vanilla bean into your dough or frosting instead of extract for a more intense, authentic vanilla flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dough Not Rising: If your dough isn’t rising properly, your kitchen may be too cold. Create a warm environment by preheating your oven to its lowest setting, turning it off, and then placing the covered dough inside.
• Filling Leakage: If your filling seems too wet, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it further. Make sure to cool it completely before using.
• Uneven Rolls: For perfectly even rolls, use a ruler to measure your dough rectangle and mark cutting lines on the log before slicing.
• Frosting Too Thin: If your frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
• Rolls Stuck to Pan: Line your baking dish with parchment paper with overhanging edges to easily lift out the entire batch after baking.

Health and Dietary Adaptations

• Reduced Sugar Option: Cut sugar by up to 1/3 in all components without significantly affecting texture. Use naturally sweet, ripe strawberries to maintain flavor.
• Whole Grain Version: Substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for added nutrition. The rolls will be slightly denser but still delicious.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and a flax egg substitute (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 Tbsp water for each egg). Use vegan cream cheese for the frosting.

These professional tips will help you create perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls every time, impressing family and friends with your baking expertise.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

These decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Serve them warm with the cream cheese frosting melting into all the nooks and crannies for the ultimate indulgence. Pair them with:

• Fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast
• Hot coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat
• Vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top dessert version
• A glass of cold milk for the classic combination

For an extra special presentation, garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.

Storage & Leftovers

• Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm refrigerated rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
• Frosting Tip: If freezing, store the frosting separately and add after reheating for the best texture.

FAQs for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls

Get answers to the most common questions about making perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls at home. These frequently asked questions address everything

Related Recipes

If you love these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls, try these other delicious breakfast and brunch recipes:

• Classic Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
• Blueberry Cheesecake Breakfast Braid
• Strawberry French Toast Casserole
• Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish
• Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe offers the perfect indulgent treat that combines the best of both worlds – the comfort of warm cinnamon rolls and the luxurious flavor of strawberry cheesecake. With their fluffy texture, sweet-tart strawberry filling, and creamy frosting, these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are guaranteed to become a favorite for special occasions or weekend brunches. This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe might require a bit of time and patience, but the incredible results are more than worth the effort. Now you know how to make the best Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe at home!

Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below, and tag us on social media with your beautiful strawberry roll photos. We’d love to see how this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe turned out for you!

Print