Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 11, 2026

Featured in: Desserts

Imagine the comforting aroma of warm cinnamon rolls paired with a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling and bursts of fresh strawberry sweetness. These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining soft, fluffy dough with a rich filling and a smooth vanilla glaze that will make any occasion feel special.

Baking these rolls is a rewarding experience, perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a show-stopping dessert. The blend of textures and flavors creates a mouthwatering treat that’s both indulgent and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of tangy cheesecake and warm cinnamon creates a unique flavor profile.
Fresh strawberries add a bright, juicy contrast to the rich fillings.
The soft, tender dough provides a perfect base for layering flavors and textures.
The easy-to-make vanilla glaze ties all the components together beautifully.

Ingredients

Warm Milk (1 cup): Heated to about 110°F to activate yeast and create soft, fluffy rolls.
Active Dry Yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Provides the rise for the light and airy dough texture.
Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Used to feed the yeast and sweeten the dough and filling.
Unsalted Butter, melted (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Melted butter enriches dough; softened butter creates the cinnamon sugar spread.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances dough structure.
Large Eggs (2): Adds richness and structure to the dough.
All-Purpose Flour (4 cups): The main dry ingredient forming the dough’s foundation.
Ground Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Infuses the filling with classic warm spice flavor.
Fresh Strawberries (1 cup, diced): Adds fresh fruity bursts within the rolls.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): A smooth, tangy filling that complements the cinnamon butter.
Powdered Sugar (1/4 cup + 1 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling and makes the luscious glaze.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Adds depth and warmth to the cream cheese and glaze.
Milk (2-3 tablespoons): Used to thin the glaze for drizzling consistency.
Optional Strawberry Jam (1/4 cup): Enhances the strawberry flavor in the glaze for extra sweetness.

Instructions

Activate the Yeast: Combine warm milk and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a bowl, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes, to confirm yeast is alive and ready to leaven the dough.
Mix Dough Ingredients: Add melted butter, salt, eggs, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well to combine ingredients, ensuring even distribution before adding the remaining flour for proper dough consistency.
Knead the Dough: Gradually incorporate the remaining flour into the mixture, kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This process develops gluten, giving the rolls their desirable chewy structure.
First Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size; this slow fermentation enhances flavor and texture.
Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until creamy and fluffy. This mixture will add warm spice and sweetness to the rolls.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable. This creamy filling adds tang and richness to balance the cinnamon layer.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the risen dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle. A uniform thickness ensures even rolling and baking, setting the stage for layering the fillings.
Layer the Fillings and Strawberries: Spread the cinnamon butter evenly over the dough, followed by the cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle diced strawberries across the top to add fresh bursts of flavor and moisture.
Shape and Slice Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log starting from the longer side. Cut the log into 12 equal slices to create evenly sized rolls that bake uniformly.
Second Dough Rise: Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving a little space for expansion. Cover and allow to rise again for 30 minutes so they become fluffy and soft before baking.
Bake the Rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top, signaling they are perfectly baked with a tender crumb inside.
Prepare and Add the Glaze: Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Optionally, stir in strawberry jam for an extra fruity touch. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls to add sweetness and a glossy finish.

You Must Know

Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast during activation.
Use fresh strawberries that are firm and ripe for the best texture and flavor inside the rolls.
Allowing the dough adequate rising time is crucial for light, fluffy rolls.

Storage Tips

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm briefly in the oven or microwave to restore softness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat. They also make a delightful brunch centerpiece with fresh fruit on the side.

Professional Tips

For easier cutting, chill the rolled dough log briefly before slicing to keep shapes intact.
Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smoother dough and filling textures.
Experiment with different berries or jams for variations in flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?: Fresh strawberries are recommended to avoid excess moisture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well before adding to prevent soggy rolls.
How do I store these rolls if I want to make them ahead?: After baking, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze the unbaked rolls?: Yes, assemble and cut the rolls, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw and allow to rise before baking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?: For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese alternatives. The texture may vary slightly but the flavor remains rich and creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?: While the recipe involves multiple steps and dough rising, the instructions are straightforward and suitable for moderate skill levels with some baking experience.