Pin it
This hearty Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Roll recipe brings together the perfect blend of tart strawberries and creamy cheesecake filling wrapped in soft pillowy dough. The combination creates a magical breakfast treat that fills your home with irresistible aromas as it bakes.
I first created these rolls for a Sunday brunch with friends, and they've become my signature dish for special occasions. The way the strawberry filling swirls with the cheesecake layer reminds me of my grandmother's homemade pastries.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- All purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for soft fluffy rolls
- Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to complement the fillings
- Active dry yeast: Ensures a proper rise for light textured rolls
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor
- Warm milk: Activates the yeast and creates tender dough
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor
- Egg: Contributes to structure and richness
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese: Softened for a smooth texture and tangy flavor
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth
- For the Strawberry Filling:
- Fresh strawberries: Bring bright flavor and beautiful color
- Granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of berries
- Cornstarch: Thickens the filling to prevent runniness
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances sweetness
- For the Glaze:
- Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth sweet finish
- Milk: Thins the glaze to perfect drizzling consistency
- Vanilla extract: Adds subtle flavor complexity
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This activation step ensures your rolls will rise beautifully with a light texture. Add softened butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour, mixing until combined. Gradually add remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic with a slight tackiness. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours in a warm spot until doubled in size.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until completely smooth and fluffy. Ensure no lumps remain for the creamiest texture. The filling should be spreadable but not runny. Set aside at room temperature to maintain spreadability.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
- Combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture stirring frequently until it thickens and becomes jamlike with a glossy appearance, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool completely before using to prevent melting the cheesecake layer during assembly.
- Roll and Assemble:
- Roll the risen dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 12×18 inches with even thickness throughout. Spread the cheesecake filling in an even layer across the dough leaving a half-inch border around all edges. Follow with the cooled strawberry filling, distributing it evenly over the cheesecake layer. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log shape, pinching the seam to seal.
- Slice and Rise Again:
- Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces about 1.5 inches thick. Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish with slight spacing between each roll. Cover with a clean towel and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until noticeably puffy and touching each other slightly.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the risen rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top and completely cooked through in the center. The rolls should reach an internal temperature of about 190°F when fully baked. The filling may bubble slightly which is perfectly normal.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more as needed to reach desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze generously over the slightly cooled rolls allowing it to seep into crevices. Serve immediately while still warm for the ultimate gooey comforting experience.
Pin it
These rolls have become a tradition in my household for holiday mornings. The way the strawberry filling caramelizes slightly against the edges of the pan creates these irresistible crispy bits that everyone fights over. The first time I made them, my daughter declared them better than any bakery version.
Storing Your Sweet Rolls
These strawberry cheesecake rolls stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days though the texture will become slightly firmer. To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds or warm multiple rolls covered with foil in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. The gentle warming restores their soft, pillowy texture.
Seasonal Variations
While fresh strawberries create the best flavor profile, you can adapt this recipe year-round. In summer, try substituting fresh raspberries or blackberries for equally delicious results. During winter months, high-quality strawberry preserves work beautifully when fresh berries aren't at their peak. Simply reduce the sugar in the filling by 1 tablespoon if using preserves. For special occasions, add a tablespoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright citrus note that complements the strawberry flavor wonderfully.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet rolls shine as the centerpiece of a weekend brunch alongside a simple fruit salad and hot coffee. For a more substantial spread, pair them with savory egg dishes like a spinach frittata to balance the sweetness. When serving as dessert, a small scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms them into an elevated treat. For added indulgence, offer a small pitcher of warm cream cheese glaze on the side so guests can add extra as desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before cooking the filling to avoid it becoming watery.
- → Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before baking. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftover rolls?
Reheat the rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) until warm.
- → Can I make the glaze thicker?
Yes, simply reduce the amount of milk in the glaze or add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.
- → Can I substitute the cream cheese in the filling?
Yes, mascarpone or ricotta cheese can be used as alternatives, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.