If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and cheesecake, this recipe is a dream come true. The combination of tangy cream cheese filling, sweet strawberry topping, and warm, gooey cinnamon roll dough creates an indulgent treat that’s irresistible. The soft and pillowy texture of the rolls paired with the burst of strawberry flavor and creamy cheesecake filling is the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s a great way to elevate your morning routine or any special occasion!
Ingredients
1 package of cinnamon roll dough (or homemade dough)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the cinnamon roll dough package (usually 350°F or 375°F). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
Roll out the cinnamon roll dough onto a clean surface, creating a large rectangle. Spread a thin layer of melted butter over the dough.
In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll dough.
Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over the cheesecake mixture, followed by the chopped strawberries.
Carefully roll the dough up from one end to the other, sealing the edge. Cut the dough into individual rolls, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
Place the rolls into the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
While the rolls are baking, heat the strawberry jam in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes a smooth glaze. Once the rolls are done, drizzle the warm strawberry glaze over the top of the rolls.
Serve warm, and enjoy!
Servings and timing
Servings: 8-10 rolls
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
Add chocolate chips: For a richer flavor, add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling before rolling up the dough.
Use frozen strawberries: If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the rolls.
Vegan version: Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based cinnamon roll dough to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Nut topping: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the top before baking for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
To store, keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply place the rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make these strawberry cheesecake Cinnabon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just bake them as directed.
Can I use store-bought frosting instead of the strawberry glaze?
You can, but the strawberry glaze adds a nice fresh fruit flavor that complements the cheesecake filling. If you prefer frosting, you can use cream cheese frosting instead.
Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?
Yes! You can substitute other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. For a tropical twist, try using mango or pineapple.
Is there a way to make these rolls less sweet?
If you want to cut back on the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese filling and glaze. You can also opt for a lighter glaze made with less sugar.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free cinnamon roll dough and ensure the other ingredients, like the graham crackers and jam, are also gluten-free.
How can I make the cinnamon roll dough from scratch?
You can make your own dough by mixing flour, sugar, yeast, milk, butter, and eggs. There are many recipes online that will guide you in making homemade cinnamon roll dough.
How long will these strawberry cheesecake Cinnabon rolls stay fresh?
They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the dough may become a little too soft, so it’s best to enjoy them within a few days.
Can I freeze the rolls before baking them?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze them until firm, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw for 30 minutes and then bake as usual.
Can I make these rolls without the cheesecake filling?
Yes, you can skip the cheesecake filling if you want a simpler roll, and just focus on the cinnamon roll dough and strawberry topping.
Can I add cream cheese frosting instead of the cheesecake filling?
You can definitely use cream cheese frosting as a topping after baking the rolls. However, the cheesecake filling is designed to add richness to the rolls before baking, so it may be a bit different in texture and flavor.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls are a perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of the day, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their soft, fluffy dough and indulgent cheesecake and strawberry filling, these rolls are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Try them today and enjoy the delicious twist on a classic favorite!
A decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls, combining the creamy texture of cheesecake with fresh strawberries and the buttery, spiced goodness of Cinnabon-style dough.
Ingredients
1 package of cinnamon roll dough (or homemade dough)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the cinnamon roll dough package (usually 350°F or 375°F). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
Roll out the cinnamon roll dough onto a clean surface, creating a large rectangle. Spread a thin layer of melted butter over the dough.
In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll dough.
Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over the cheesecake mixture, followed by the chopped strawberries.
Carefully roll the dough up from one end to the other, sealing the edge. Cut the dough into individual rolls, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
Place the rolls into the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
While the rolls are baking, heat the strawberry jam in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes a smooth glaze. Once the rolls are done, drizzle the warm strawberry glaze over the top of the rolls.
Serve warm, and enjoy!
Notes
Add chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
To make this recipe vegan, swap cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based cinnamon roll dough.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.