Treat yourself to a delightful breakfast or dessert with these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls. Combining the soft, fluffy texture of cinnamon rolls with a creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries, these rolls are topped with a luscious glaze for the perfect finish. Ideal for brunch or a sweet dessert, these rolls will surely satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1/4 cup strawberry jam for extra flavor
Directions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Add melted butter, salt, eggs, and 2 cups of the flour. Mix until combined.
Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Assemble the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough.
Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the butter mixture.
Sprinkle the diced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 even slices.
Bake the Rolls:
Place the slices in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Optionally, you can stir in the strawberry jam for extra flavor.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Serving Tips:
Warm is Best: For the best flavor and texture, serve these rolls warm. You can reheat them slightly in the microwave or oven if needed.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: These rolls are a delightful treat with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect choice for brunch or a cozy afternoon snack.
Garnish: Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or extra fresh strawberries on top for a touch of elegance and added flavor.
Serve with Fresh Fruit: Pairing the rolls with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a fruit salad can balance out the sweetness and add a refreshing element to your meal.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their soft texture.
Refrigeration: If you need to store them for longer, keep the rolls in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
Freezing: To freeze, place the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven or microwave.
Reheating: Reheat rolls gently to avoid drying them out. In the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. In the microwave, heat for 20-30 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
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