If you have a sweet tooth and a love for classic comfort treats, you are going to adore this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe. Imagine the warm, gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls combined with the luscious creaminess of cheesecake and the bright, fruity pop of fresh strawberries. This recipe takes everyday refrigerated cinnamon rolls up a notch, layering them with strawberry preserves, a smooth cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberry bits for a delightful twist. Whether you’re treating yourself for breakfast, dessert, or brunch, these rolls bring happiness in every bite and are surprisingly simple to create in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you! The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the perfect harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital part in making these rolls tender, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8 count): The base of this recipe, providing fluffy, spiced dough and a ready-made icing to drizzle on top.
- Strawberry preserves or jam (½ cup): Adds a sweet, fruity layer that complements the cinnamon and cheesecake beautifully.
- Cream cheese, softened (4 oz): Creates that rich, creamy texture essential for the cheesecake filling.
- Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the cheesecake filling without graininess, ensuring smoothness.
- Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavor profile of the cheesecake filling with warm, aromatic notes.
- Chopped fresh strawberries (½ cup): Adds freshness, texture, and a burst of natural strawberry flavor throughout.
- Butter (1 tablespoon for greasing): Keeps your baking dish non-stick and adds a subtle richness.
- Optional garnishes: Crushed graham crackers, extra fresh strawberries, or an extra drizzle of icing for that gorgeous finish.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats, lightly butter your baking dish to ensure your rolls won’t stick, allowing them to bake evenly and come out looking perfect every time.
Step 2: Unroll and Layer the Strawberry Preserves
Next, carefully unroll each cinnamon roll, laying them flat. Spread a thin, even layer of strawberry preserves along the dough strips. This sweet layer will meld beautifully with the cinnamon and add a delightful fruity surprise inside each bite.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until completely smooth and creamy. This cheesecake mixture adds a luscious richness that balances perfectly with the cinnamon and strawberry flavors.
Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Mixture and Fresh Strawberries
Spoon a generous amount of the cheesecake filling over the strawberry preserves on each dough strip. Sprinkle the chopped fresh strawberries evenly on top, giving an extra fresh fruit burst and wonderful texture to each roll.
Step 5: Roll and Arrange
Carefully roll each strip back into a spiral shape, similar to their original form. Place the rolls snugly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring they have room to expand but are close enough to bake into soft, fluffy clusters.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Heavenly
Bake your rolls for 18 to 22 minutes, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and the dough is thoroughly cooked. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage will have you counting down the moments to the first bite.
Step 7: Finish with Icing and Garnishes
After removing the rolls from the oven, let them cool just slightly. Then drizzle with the included icing packet for that signature Cinnabon sweetness and glossy finish. Top with extra chopped strawberries or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers if you want an extra texture layer and that classic cheesecake crust vibe.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving even more special, add fresh strawberry slices on top along with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. These small touches add visual appeal and a wonderful textural contrast that complements the soft rolls and creamy filling.
Side Dishes
This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk. For a fuller brunch, serve alongside a light fruit salad or yogurt parfait to balance the richness and give your meal a refreshing touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these rolls right out of the baking dish for a cozy, family-style presentation. Alternatively, plate them individually on pretty dessert plates with a dollop of whipped cream and a few mint leaves for an elegant touch that feels like a bakery treat made just for you.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, you can freeze the baked rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To bring your rolls back to life, gently warm them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until soft and warm. You can also use a low oven setting to gently heat without drying them out, deliciously reviving the soft texture and creamy filling.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of refrigerated ones?
Absolutely! Homemade dough can add an extra level of freshness and flavor, though refrigerated rolls make this recipe quick and easy without sacrificing taste.
Is it better to use cream cheese or mascarpone for the filling?
Cream cheese is traditional and gives that classic cheesecake tang, but mascarpone offers a richer, creamier texture if you want a more indulgent filling.
Can I substitute frozen strawberries for fresh ones?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if frozen are all you have, just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the rolls.
How do I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?
Be sure to spread a thin layer of preserves and avoid overloading the dough with wet ingredients. Baking until golden also helps maintain a nice structure without sogginess.
Can I make these rolls vegan or dairy-free?
With some adjustments like using dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter, you can make a vegan-friendly version, though the flavor may differ slightly from the traditional recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is truly something magical about this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe that makes it a standout treat for any occasion. It’s an easy way to impress your family or guests with layers of deliciousness that feel both indulgent and homey. Once you try these, I’m sure they’ll become a favorite go-to whenever you crave the perfect mix of cinnamon, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries. Don’t wait to whip up a batch and experience this sweet comfort for yourself!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls combine the best of classic cinnamon rolls with a luscious strawberry and cream cheese filling. These delightful baked treats feature a layer of strawberry preserves, a creamy cheesecake mixture, and fresh strawberries rolled into soft cinnamon dough. Finished with icing and optional garnishes, these rolls make a perfect indulgent breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8 count)
- ½ cup strawberry preserves or jam
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
Optional Garnishes
- Crushed graham crackers
- Extra strawberries
- Drizzle of icing (included with cinnamon rolls)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly butter a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Unroll Cinnamon Rolls: Carefully unroll each cinnamon roll and lay them flat to prepare for filling.
- Spread Strawberry Preserves: Spread a thin layer of strawberry preserves evenly along each cinnamon roll strip, providing a fruity base.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheesecake Filling: Spoon and spread the cream cheese mixture over the strawberry preserves on each cinnamon strip.
- Sprinkle Fresh Strawberries: Evenly sprinkle chopped fresh strawberries over the cream cheese layer for added texture and flavor.
- Roll and Arrange: Carefully roll the strips back up and place them snugly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the rolls to cool slightly, then drizzle with the included icing. Optionally, top with extra chopped strawberries or crushed graham crackers.
- Serve: Serve the rolls warm for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- For a richer filling, use whipped cream cheese or mascarpone for a creamier texture.
- You can substitute homemade cinnamon roll dough if preferred for a fresher taste.
- These rolls are best served fresh but can be gently reheated in the microwave if needed.
