Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of sweetness and indulgence, with a fluffy cinnamon roll base, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a topping of fresh strawberries. The cheesecake filling adds a rich creaminess that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the warmth of the cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls, cheesecake, or both, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, making it an ideal option for special mornings or gatherings.

Ingredients

1 package of cinnamon roll dough (store-bought or homemade)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Roll out the cinnamon roll dough into a flat rectangle.
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle diced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, creating a log.
Slice the dough into individual rolls, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then drizzle it over the rolls.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 rolls
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Berry Mix: Add other berries such as raspberries or blueberries to the filling for a mixed-berry twist.
Chocolate Chips: Incorporate chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a rich, decadent flavor.
Glazed: Top the rolls with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra sweet finish.
Nutty: Add crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the filling or as a topping for some crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade dough for these rolls?

Yes, you can use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of store-bought. Just be sure to roll it out thinly to make room for the filling.

2. Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

3. Can I freeze the rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Place them in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

4. How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Make sure the rolls are evenly spaced in the baking dish and that the filling is not too runny. You can also place a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any potential drips.

5. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, but if you use frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

6. How can I make these rolls less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese filling or skip the drizzle of butter and brown sugar on top for a less sweet version.

7. Can I use a different type of dough for these rolls?

You can experiment with different types of dough like brioche or pastry dough for a richer, flakier texture.

8. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make these rolls gluten-free, use a gluten-free cinnamon roll dough and ensure all the other ingredients, including the cream cheese and strawberries, are gluten-free.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and non-dairy butter for the cream cheese and butter in this recipe to make it dairy-free.

10. What should I do if the rolls are browning too quickly?

If the rolls are browning too fast in the oven, cover them loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until they are fully cooked through.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are an irresistible combination of soft, cinnamon rolls and creamy, tangy cheesecake filling, topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they offer a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. With variations to suit different tastes and easy steps to follow, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, these rolls will hit the spot.