Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Imagine this: it’s a cozy weekend morning, and the scent of something warm, sweet, and a little magical is wafting through your kitchen. That, my friend, is the power of Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls.

These aren't your average cinnamon rolls; we’re talking about a soft, buttery dough swirled with cinnamon sugar, layered with a tangy cheesecake filling, and bursting with juicy, sweet strawberries in every single bite. It’s a trio of flavors that sings together in perfect harmony.

Whether you're hosting brunch, treating the family to a lazy Sunday breakfast, or just indulging in a little “me time” (with a cup of coffee and no judgment), these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls bring bakery-level decadence right into your home kitchen.

As someone who’s spent years perfecting comfort food recipes that bring people together, I can confidently say: these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are the kind of breakfast treat that turns simple moments into something special; and yes, they’re every bit as dreamy as they sound.

Why These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls Are Truly Something Special

Let’s be honest; cinnamon rolls are already pretty irresistible. But these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls? They’re on an entirely different level. As someone who’s tested more breakfast bakes than I can count, I can say with confidence: this recipe takes the beloved classic and infuses it with pure morning magic.

While traditional rolls lean on cinnamon and brown sugar for that signature coziness, Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls go a step further. Think soft, buttery swirls hugged by ribbons of tangy cream cheese and pockets of vibrant, juicy strawberries. The contrast of sweet and tart, creamy and fluffy, turns every bite into a mini celebration.

One of the best parts? You can enjoy them any time of year. When fresh strawberries are in season, they shine like little gems in the filling. But don’t worry; frozen strawberries work just as well (just give them a gentle thaw and drain first). These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are a dream served warm with a steaming mug of coffee—perfect for slow weekends, Easter brunches, or any day you want to turn breakfast into something unforgettable.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
• Equipment
• Storage & Meal Prep Tips
• The Secret Bakers Don’t Tell You
• FAQ
• The Sweetest Way to Start (or End) Your Day
• Related
• Pairing
• Homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour – creates the perfect tender structure
• Granulated sugar – adds just enough sweetness to the dough
• Instant yeast – helps the dough rise faster than active dry yeast
• Salt – balances the sweetness
• Warm milk (110°F) – activates the yeast
• Unsalted butter, melted – adds richness to the dough
• Large eggs, room temperature – provides structure and richness
• Vanilla extract – enhances the sweet flavor

For the Strawberry Filling:

• Fresh strawberries, diced – the star of our strawberry cheesecake cinnamon rolls
• Granulated sugar – macerates the strawberries to release their juices
• Cornstarch – thickens the strawberry mixture so it doesn't make the rolls soggy
• Lemon juice – brightens the strawberry flavor

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• Cream cheese, softened – provides that classic cheesecake flavor
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cream cheese
• Vanilla extract – adds depth to the cheesecake flavor

For the Cinnamon Sugar:

• Unsalted butter, softened – helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the dough
• Brown sugar – creates that classic sticky, caramelized cinnamon roll texture
• Ground cinnamon – the signature spice for any proper cinnamon roll

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• Vanilla extract – rounds out the flavors
• Cream cheese, softened – creates a tangy, rich topping
• Powdered sugar – sweetens without graininess
• Milk – thins the glaze to desired consistency

See recipe card for quantities.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to switch things up or cater to dietary needs? No problem! These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls are flexible enough to accommodate a few smart swaps without sacrificing flavor or fluff.

• Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter, your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond, oat, or soy), a reliable egg replacer (such as flax eggs or store-bought substitutes), and vegan cream cheese. The result? Just as indulgent, with zero animal products.
• Gluten-free option: Swap in a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For best results, add about 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum to help mimic the elasticity of gluten and keep those rolls nice and tender.
• Short on time? Use premade pizza dough from the grocery store. It won’t be quite as rich, but it’ll still give you that cinnamon roll experience in a fraction of the prep time; perfect for busy mornings.
• No strawberries on hand? No worries! Try raspberries, blueberries, or even a medley of mixed berries. Each brings its own sweet-tart twist to these Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls and adds beautiful bursts of color too.

Instructions

Prepare the Fillings

1. For the strawberry filling: Combine diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until thickened, then cool completely.
2. For the cream cheese filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. For the cinnamon sugar: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

Make and Rise the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla; mix until combined.
3. Gradually add remaining flour until dough pulls away from bowl sides.
4. Knead 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise about 1 hour until doubled.

Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out risen dough on floured surface into 18x14 inch rectangle.
2. Spread cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly, leaving a small border on one long edge.
3. Spread cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon layer, then add cooled strawberry filling.
4. Roll up tightly from the long edge (without border) and cut into 12 equal slices.

Second Rise and Baking

1. Place rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and cover.
2. Let rise 30-45 minutes until puffy.
3. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Glaze and Serve

1. While baking, prepare glaze by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
2. Let baked rolls cool 5-10 minutes, then drizzle with cream cheese glaze.
3. For extra appeal, garnish with fresh strawberry slices before serving.

Hints & Expert Cooking Tips

Ready to bake like a pro? These little insider tricks will help you master the art of Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls; because the difference between good and unforgettable is often just one small tip away.

• Create the perfect rise: If your kitchen runs cool, give your dough a cozy boost. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting for just 2 minutes, then turn it off. Place your covered dough inside and let it rise in that warm (not hot!) space. This creates the perfect environment for soft, fluffy rolls every time.
• Overnight magic: Want to wake up to cinnamon roll heaven without doing all the work in the morning? Prep the rolls all the way through the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them rest at room temp for about 30 minutes before baking. Voilà; fresh, hot Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls without the a.m. hustle.
• Dough done right: Yeast can be a bit picky. Make sure your milk is warm; about 110°F is the sweet spot. Too hot and it’ll zap your yeast; too cold and nothing will happen. Use a kitchen thermometer if you have one—it’s a game changer.
• Soft butter = smooth sailing: When making the fillings, don’t rush it; your butter and cream cheese should be properly softened. Leave them out for at least an hour, or microwave in short 10-second bursts until soft but not melted. This helps everything spread evenly and beautifully.
• Roll like a pro: Want clean, pretty spirals? Skip the knife. Use unflavored dental floss to slice your rolls! Just slide it underneath the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull gently—it’s the secret weapon of many pro bakers.

Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications

One of the best things about Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls; besides how ridiculously good they are; is how easy they are to customize. Whether you're working with dietary restrictions, looking to lighten things up, or just in the mood to play with flavors, these variations let you get creative while still enjoying all the cozy, gooey magic of the original recipe.

• Dairy-Free Strawberry Rolls
  Need a plant-based option? No problem. Swap the butter for coconut oil, use almond or oat milk instead of dairy, and go for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. You'll still get that signature richness and creaminess that makes Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls so indulgent; just without the dairy.
• Lower-Sugar Option
  Trying to cut back on sugar? You can reduce the sugar in the dough, filling, and glaze by about 25% without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure you’re using ripe, naturally sweet strawberries to help carry the fruity goodness through each bite.
• Mixed Berry Cheesecake Rolls
  Feeling adventurous? Replace the strawberries with a colorful medley of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. This variation adds layers of flavor and texture and turns your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls into a berry-packed celebration.
• Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake Rolls
  Brighten things up by adding lemon zest to both the cream cheese filling and the strawberry mixture. It adds a fresh, citrusy twist that cuts through the richness and gives your rolls a little sunshine in every bite.

Chocolate Strawberry Rolls
Want to turn things ultra-decadent? Spread a thin layer of chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella) underneath the strawberry layer before rolling. The result is a chocolate-covered strawberry vibe wrapped inside a warm, cinnamon roll hug.

These customizations prove just how versatile Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls can be. Don’t be afraid to experiment; your perfect version might just be a flavor twist away.

Equipment

• Cooling rack: Allows air to circulate underneath the baking dish to prevent the bottoms of the rolls from getting soggy.
• Stand mixer with dough hook: Makes mixing and kneading the dough much easier, but you can also mix by hand if needed.
• Rolling pin: A sturdy rolling pin helps you roll the dough to an even thickness. If you don't have one, a wine bottle works in a pinch!
• 9x13-inch baking dish: Glass or ceramic dishes work well because they distribute heat evenly. Metal pans will work too but may cook the bottom of the rolls faster.
• Offset spatula: Perfect for spreading the fillings evenly across the dough without tearing it.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Fridge Storage
  Store leftover strawberry cheesecake cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the cream cheese filling and glaze, it’s best to avoid leaving them at room temperature for long periods.

• Freezing Instructions:
  These rolls freeze well, both baked and unbaked:
  
  • To freeze baked rolls: Let them cool completely. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
  • To freeze unbaked rolls: After slicing the dough into rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, let rise at room temperature for 1–2 hours, and bake as usual.

• Reheating Tips
  For soft, bakery-style results, reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. When using the oven, place a small dish of water inside to create steam and help keep the rolls moist.

FAQ

The Sweetest Way to Start (or End) Your Day

There’s just something magical about pulling a tray of warm, gooey rolls out of the oven; especially when those rolls are Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls. This recipe is a love letter to all things cozy and comforting, blending juicy strawberries, tangy cream cheese, and soft, cinnamon-laced dough into a treat that feels both nostalgic and new. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, a holiday breakfast, or simply to spoil your loved ones on a lazy Sunday, these rolls have a way of making ordinary moments feel a little more special.

Sure, they take a bit more time than your average breakfast; but they’re totally doable, and the results are nothing short of bakery-worthy. The best part? Watching everyone’s face light up as they take that first bite of your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls. (Spoiler: they won’t last long.)

And if you’re looking to keep the berry-cheesecake vibes going, be sure to check out my Strawberry Cheesecake Balls Recipe; a fun, bite-sized no-bake dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Or stick with the classics and whip up my Homemade Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls; they’re a soft, pillowy dream for anyone who loves the traditional take.

Now I want to know; what’s your favorite way to remix a cinnamon roll? Have you tried this version yet? Let’s chat in the comments; I love hearing what you're baking up in your kitchen!

Related

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Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls recipe: