Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls

Indulge in the delightful experience of Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls. This easy and comforting recipe offers the perfect blend of fluffy rolls stuffed with a creamy, fruity filling. The combination of sweet strawberries and rich cream cheese evokes nostalgic memories of warm, homemade desserts that bring a smile to anyone’s face. With a step-by-step approach, this recipe ensures that you’ll create delicious, dreamy rolls that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an evening treat. Let’s dive into this family-friendly recipe that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls. First and foremost is the ease of preparation. With simple, wholesome ingredients, you can whip these up in no time. The hands-on steps create a fun baking experience that children and adults alike can enjoy together.

Moreover, these sweet rolls are incredibly versatile. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for various occasions like brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or cozy family nights. The lovely aroma of strawberries baking mingles with a buttery scent, ensuring your home feels warm and inviting.

Ingredients

To make your very own Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls, you will need the following ingredients:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of these fluffy rolls, creating a lovely texture that softens beautifully.
1/4 cup granulated sugar – Adding just the right touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the strawberries.
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast – Essential for that delightful rise that transforms your rolls into airy treats.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Elevating the flavors within the rolls.
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed – Contributing creaminess and richness to the dough.
1/4 cup water, warm – Helping to activate the yeast and create the perfect dough consistency.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Bringing a rich, buttery flavor.
1 large egg – Adding structure and moisture to the dough.
8 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the filling, providing a creamy and luscious layer.
1/4 cup granulated sugar for the filling – Enhancing the cream cheese with added sweetness.
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped – Budgeting juicy bursts of flavor and a hint of color.
1/4 cup powdered sugar – For a touch of sweetness in the filling.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Infusing the roll mixture with a warm undertone.
1/2 cup powdered sugar for the glaze – Providing the perfect finishing touch.
2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk for glaze – Helping to form a smooth texture for drizzling.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract for glaze – Enhancing the overall flavor profile beautifully.

Step-by-Step Directions

Get ready to create Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls with these clear and simple instructions!

Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the packet of active dry yeast over the surface of the liquid mixture. Allow this to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
Mix the Dough: After the yeast has activated, add melted butter, a large egg, and salt to the mixture. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s smooth and elastic.
Let it Rise: Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and place it in a warm environment to rise. Allow the dough to rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Prepare Strawberry Cheesecake Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, powdered sugar, finely chopped strawberries, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the strawberry cheesecake filling over the rolled-out dough, taking care to leave a small border around the edges.
Create Rolls: Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Once rolled, slice the log into 8-10 equal rolls.
Second Rise: Place the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they’re snug together. Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until they are puffy.
Preheat the Oven: As the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and lift beautifully from the pan.
Make the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, combine powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the heavy cream or milk in a small bowl until smooth.
Glazing: Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the warm rolls.
Serve and Enjoy: Allow your Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the warm rolls either alone or alongside fresh strawberries for that extra touch.

Tips & Tricks

Yeast Activation: Make sure your milk and water are warm, but not too hot; around 110°F (43°C) is perfect. Higher temperatures can kill the yeast.
Flour Measurement: Avoid compacting the flour in your measuring cup to ensure you’re using the right amount.
Chill the Filling: For an easier spread, chill the cream cheese filling slightly before applying it to the dough.
Roll Evenly: When rolling the dough, try to maintain an even thickness for all parts to ensure they bake uniformly.
Experiment with Fruit: While strawberries are a delightful choice, feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, for different flavor profiles!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls are perfect as they are, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad or yogurt to add a refreshing contrast. They also work wonderfully as a lovely centerpiece for brunch gatherings or celebratory breakfasts.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 roll) of Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. While these rolls are undeniably indulgent, they can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, paired with fresh fruits or a boost of protein.

Storing Tips & Variations

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them for about a week.
Freezing: The rolls can be frozen before baking. Just make sure they are tightly covered. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, bring to room temperature, and then bake as directed.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the rolls in the microwave for a few seconds or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Variations: Experiment with variations such as adding chocolate chips to the filling or using a citrus glaze for a zesty kick.

Conclusion

Don’t resist the delightful sweetness and comforting taste of Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls any longer! With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Invite some friends or family to join in the fun, create some beautiful memories, and indulge in these fluffy, sweet creations. Once you’ve tried them, we’d love to hear about your experience, so please share your thoughts and favorite serving suggestions!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
- Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
What can I use instead of active dry yeast?
- You can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast, but you won’t need to activate it in warm water; just mix it directly with your dry ingredients.
How can I make these rolls dairy-free?
- To make these rolls dairy-free, substitute dairy milk with almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, roll it out and continue with the filling and second rise.
What other fillings can I use?
- Other delicious options can include Nutella, cinnamon sugar, or even flavored cream cheese, such as chocolate or lemon, for varied sweetness in each bite.