If you have a craving for something irresistibly luscious and bursting with fresh fruit flavor, you have to try the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Recipe. These sweet rolls are a glorious fusion of soft, fluffy dough swirled with rich cream cheese and topped with a vibrant strawberry filling, all finished with a silky cream cheese frosting. Every bite melts in your mouth, balancing sweetness and tang with such warmth and comfort that you’ll find yourself reaching for just one more. It’s truly the perfect way to brighten up breakfast or delight your dessert table with a crowd-pleasing showstopper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the tender dough, the creamy filling, or the luscious frosting. You’ll appreciate how simple pantry staples and fresh strawberries come together to create a truly memorable treat.
- Warm milk (¾ cup): Activates the yeast gently and keeps the dough soft.
- Active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons/1 packet): The magic that helps the dough rise beautifully fluffy.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup + 2 tablespoons for filling): Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the filling slightly.
- Large egg plus 1 egg yolk: Offers richness and structure to the dough.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup melted + 2 tablespoons for frosting): For tenderness in the dough and silky frosting texture.
- All-purpose flour (2¾ cups): The foundation of your soft, elastic dough.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavors and controls yeast activity.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup diced): The star ingredient—offering vibrant color and juicy sweetness.
- Cornstarch (1 teaspoon): Thickens the strawberry filling perfectly without losing freshness.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces for filling + 4 ounces for frosting): Provides luscious creaminess and tanginess in both the filling and glaze.
- Powdered sugar (â…“ cup for filling + 1 cup for frosting): Ensures smooth sweetness in every creamy layer.
- Vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons total): Enhances the natural flavors with a fragrant warm note.
- Milk (1–2 tablespoons for frosting): Adjusts the frosting consistency to silky perfection.
How to Make Best Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining the warm milk and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it signals that your yeast is alive and ready to help your dough rise to fluffy perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl or your stand mixer, whisk together the sugar, egg, egg yolk, and melted butter until well combined. Slowly add your yeast mixture and mix through. Then, add the flour and salt gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead it for about 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough springs back gently when poked.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size. This gives the dough its airy and tender crumb, making each roll irresistibly soft.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Filling
While the dough rises, it’s time to work on that luscious filling. In a small saucepan, gently heat the diced strawberries with sugar and cornstarch over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, then let it cool completely. This slow cooking enhances the strawberries’ flavor and helps the filling stay perfectly spreadable.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This creamy layer will beautifully complement the bright strawberry flavor and add indulgent richness to your rolls.
Step 6: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a 14 by 9-inch rectangle. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, then layer the cooled strawberry filling on top. Carefully roll the dough from the long end to create a tight spiral, then cut into 9 to 12 equal rolls with a sharp knife or dental floss for clean edges.
Step 7: Second Rise and Bake
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Your kitchen is about to smell heavenly!
Step 8: Make the Frosting and Finish
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually blend in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach a spreadable consistency. Once the rolls have cooled slightly but are still warm, generously spread the frosting on top so it melts slightly into those sweet spirals.
How to Serve Best Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a few fresh strawberry slices or a dusting of powdered sugar over the frosted rolls. A few fresh mint leaves can add a lovely pop of color and subtle freshness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve these rolls alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of cold milk. If you’re enjoying them at brunch, consider pairing with fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon to create a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing individual rolls in mini cupcake liners for a charming breakfast presentation. Alternatively, layer them in a decorative basket lined with a cheerful napkin for gifting or a picnic. Drizzle some strawberry sauce over the top for an extra fruity kick on special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. This keeps the rolls soft and fresh while maintaining the integrity of the frosting.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked assembled rolls after the second rise by covering the pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil, for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature and bake as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 20-30 seconds or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This restores that fresh-baked softness and gooey cream cheese filling that makes this recipe so unforgettable.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and drain any excess liquid before cooking the filling to prevent sogginess in your rolls.
Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
Yes, the first rise builds the dough’s structure and flavor, while the second rise keeps the rolls light and airy after shaping, ensuring tender, fluffy layers.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Definitely. You can make the dough in the evening, let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling and baking for the best results.
What’s the best way to cut the rolls evenly?
A sharp knife or unflavored dental floss works best to slice the roll without squishing it, ensuring neat, even spirals.
Can I substitute cream cheese with mascarpone?
Mascarpone can be used for a slightly milder flavor, but cream cheese offers the perfect tang and texture that make these rolls shine as the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Best Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Recipe is one of those special treats you’ll want to make again and again. From the soft, pillowy dough to the creamy, dreamy filling and the vibrant strawberry layer, it’s an absolute delight for any occasion. Share these with your favorite people—you’ll create smiles, happy conversations, and memories one sweet roll at a time!
Print
Best Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the best Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls recipe, combining soft, fluffy dough with a luscious cream cheese and fresh strawberry filling, all topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls offer a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (diced)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- â…“ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl or with a stand mixer, whisk together sugar, egg, egg yolk, and melted butter until well combined.
- Combine Dough: Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and mix to combine. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This can be done by hand or with a dough hook.
- First Rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Strawberry Filling: Meanwhile, heat diced fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Shape Rolls: Once dough has doubled, roll it out on a floured surface into a 14×9-inch rectangle. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, then spread the cooled strawberry filling on top.
- Form Rolls: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Cut into 9 to 12 equal-sized rolls.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Finish and Serve: Spread the frosting over the slightly cooled rolls and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- These rolls can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Frozen strawberries work well—just thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking the filling.
- For an added fresh twist, add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry filling to enhance brightness.
