There’s something truly special about warm, gooey, freshly baked rolls—especially when they’re filled with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling and topped with the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries. That’s exactly what you get with Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls. These rolls are a decadent dessert or brunch treat that blends the comfort of homemade rolls with the indulgence of a cheesecake filling and fruity strawberry topping. If you’re looking for something extraordinary to serve at your next gathering or a weekend breakfast, these rolls are just what you need.
What Makes Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Special?
Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls take the best aspects of two beloved desserts: cinnamon rolls and strawberry cheesecake, and combine them into a warm, sweet roll that everyone will adore. The dough is soft and buttery, the cream cheese filling adds richness and tang, and the fresh strawberries bring the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s the ideal comfort food with a touch of elegance.
Who is This Recipe For?
These sweet rolls are for anyone who loves indulgent breakfast treats or is in need of a show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, hosting a brunch, or treating yourself to something special, these rolls offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. They’re perfect for those who adore the richness of cheesecake but also want the warm, comforting vibe of freshly baked rolls.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls
Gather these ingredients to make your strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls. You’ll need a mix of fresh, pantry staples and a few indulgent ingredients for the cheesecake filling.
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Icing:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Before you get started, make sure you have these kitchen tools on hand:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
- Knife or pastry cutter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Once it’s frothy, add the butter, salt, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until the dough begins to come together.
Once the dough has formed, knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, egg yolk, and heavy cream. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated, and the filling is smooth and velvety. Set this filling aside.
3. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough up from the long edge, creating a tight log. Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
4. Let the Rolls Rise
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up.
5. Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. Keep an eye on them near the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking. Let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before adding the strawberry topping.
6. Prepare the Strawberry Topping
While the rolls are baking, make the strawberry topping. Combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices and become syrupy. Once the rolls are cool, spoon the strawberry topping generously over the rolls.
7. Drizzle with Icing
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the icing. Drizzle the icing over the rolls and strawberry topping. This adds an extra layer of sweetness to the rolls.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls
Customizing the Flavor
- Add a touch of cinnamon: While these rolls are already indulgent, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough or even mix it into the cheesecake filling for an added layer of flavor.
- Make it extra fruity: If you love strawberries, consider adding a handful of chopped strawberries directly into the cheesecake filling for added texture.
Swaps and Variations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese, and use dairy-free butter and milk in the dough and icing.
- Gluten-Free: You can make these rolls gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly from traditional rolls.
- Sugar-Free: For a sugar-free version, use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit in place of the sugar in the dough, filling, and icing.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store your strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the rolls for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them by wrapping the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Pairing Suggestions for Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls
These sweet rolls are a delicious breakfast or dessert on their own, but they can also be paired with other foods and drinks to make the experience even more enjoyable:
- Coffee: A rich cup of coffee, whether it’s a dark roast or a latte, complements the sweetness and richness of the rolls.
- Tea: If you prefer tea, try pairing these rolls with a lightly flavored herbal tea like chamomile or a fruity green tea to balance the richness.
- Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit like sliced kiwi or a bowl of mixed berries enhances the freshness of the rolls and adds a healthy touch.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls are a sweet, decadent treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, brunch, or just treating yourself, these rolls are sure to be a hit. With a soft and fluffy dough, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious strawberry topping, these rolls bring together the best of both worlds. So, go ahead and try them out! And if you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family and subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess liquid.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before shaping the rolls.
How can I make the rolls even more indulgent?
For an extra indulgent treat, add a layer of chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling, or drizzle melted chocolate over the rolls after adding the icing.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these rolls ahead of time. After baking, let them cool, cover them tightly, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes before serving.
How do I prevent the rolls from being too doughy?
Ensure that you don’t overwork the dough and let it rise properly. If they seem too doughy after baking, try reducing the rising time slightly, or ensure the rolls are fully cooked by checking the centers with a toothpick.