Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls

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There’s nothing quite as delightful as a warm, soft roll topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and juicy, fresh strawberries. These Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls are the ultimate treat for any occasion. Combining the sweetness of the strawberries, the rich and tangy flavor of cheesecake filling, and the soft texture of a sweet roll, this dessert takes indulgence to the next level. Perfect for a family brunch, a special gathering, or even as a sweet snack to enjoy on a lazy afternoon, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.

The dough is soft and buttery, creating the perfect base for a rich cream cheese layer, and topped with fresh strawberries that are lightly glazed for that extra shine and flavor. It’s like enjoying the best of both worlds—a cheesecake and a sweet roll all in one bite. The combination of textures, from the pillowy softness of the dough to the creamy cheesecake and fresh fruit, will leave you craving more with every bite. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these sweet rolls are a crowd-pleaser that will bring smiles to everyone’s face.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls

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These Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. The contrast between the fluffy, soft roll and the smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting is a treat for the senses. The fresh strawberries bring a burst of color and a fresh fruity note that perfectly balances the richness of the cheesecake filling. What makes these rolls even better is how easily they come together, making it simple to impress guests or treat yourself to something extraordinary without hours of preparation. They’re perfect for special occasions, or when you simply want to elevate your regular dessert game.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

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To make these Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls, you’ll need a few essential tools and equipment that will make the process smoother and ensure a perfect result every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

1. Mixing Bowls: For combining your dough ingredients, filling, and frosting. A good-sized mixing bowl for the dough and a smaller bowl for the frosting will keep everything organized.
2. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: While you can mix the dough by hand, a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can make the process much faster and more efficient. The mixer helps you achieve the soft, elastic dough that’s the foundation of these rolls.
3. Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough into a smooth, even layer. This will make sure that your rolls have a consistent texture and size.
4. Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: A 9×13-inch baking dish or a large sheet pan is perfect for baking your rolls. It allows enough room for the dough to rise and bake evenly.
5. Pastry Brush: For applying the glaze to the strawberries, giving them that beautiful, glossy finish.
6. Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key in baking. Having a set of measuring cups and spoons ensures you add the right amounts of ingredients to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
7. Cooling Rack: Once baked, allowing the rolls to cool slightly on a cooling rack ensures they don’t get soggy and maintains their fluffy texture.

These tools play a key role in the overall success of the recipe. Each item helps streamline the process, ensuring you get a smooth dough, a perfect glaze, and the ideal texture for your rolls.

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Preparation Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth and easy-to-work-with dough and frosting.
2. Proof the Yeast Properly: Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you allow it to bloom in warm water (not hot) to ensure the dough rises as expected.
3. Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing and kneading the dough, do so gently to avoid tough rolls. Just knead it until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Glaze the Strawberries Just Before Serving: For the freshest flavor and texture, glaze the strawberries right before serving. This keeps them from becoming soggy and maintains that bright, fresh flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a perfect batch of Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls!

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Ingredients for this Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls

To make these delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each component is carefully selected to bring out the best flavors and textures, from the soft dough to the tangy cream cheese filling and the sweet, glazed strawberries on top.

Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs

Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• 1/4 cup sugar (for the glaze)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dessert that balances sweetness with a hint of tang from the cream cheese and fresh strawberries. With this combination, you’ll have rolls that are soft, sweet, and topped with a gorgeous, glossy finish.

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Step 1: Prepare the Dough

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Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm milk (around 110°F) and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This ensures the yeast is alive and ready to make your dough rise.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs. Gradually add the flour, salt, and stir until the dough begins to come together. Once it’s mostly mixed, transfer it to a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, fit it with the dough hook and knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.

Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

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While the dough is rising, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

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Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. The dough should be about 1/4-inch thick.

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This ensures the filling stays inside as you roll the dough up.

Step 4: Roll and Slice the Dough

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Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal it. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the rolled dough into about 12 even pieces.

Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion. Cover the dish with a damp towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes, or until they puff up and are touching.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. When they’re done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

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While the rolls are baking, prepare the strawberry topping. In a small saucepan, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 7: Frost the Rolls

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of each roll. Then, spoon the strawberry glaze mixture onto the center of each roll, allowing the strawberries to spill over the frosting slightly for that perfect cheesecake look.

Now you’re ready to serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls! The combination of fresh strawberries, cheesecake filling, and sweet rolls will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!

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Notes

1. Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are highly recommended for the topping because they provide a natural burst of flavor and color. If using frozen strawberries, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the glaze.
2. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Once the rolls are shaped and placed in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This makes the recipe perfect for breakfast or brunch without too much early-morning work.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting Consistency: If the frosting seems too thick, add a tablespoon more milk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
4. Dough Texture: If your dough feels too sticky while kneading, add flour a tablespoon at a time until it becomes manageable. But be careful not to add too much flour, as this can result in dense rolls.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Yeast Not Activated Properly: If the yeast doesn’t foam or bubble after being mixed with the warm milk and sugar, it may be inactive. Ensure your yeast is fresh, and your milk is at the right temperature (not too hot, which could kill the yeast). If the yeast doesn’t activate, the dough won’t rise properly.
2. Overbaking: The rolls can quickly go from golden to overly brown, so keep an eye on them during baking. Once they start to turn golden around the edges, it’s time to remove them from the oven.
3. Too Much Flour in the Dough: Adding too much flour can result in dry rolls. Be sure to measure the flour correctly and only add extra if the dough feels too sticky to handle.
4. Underbaking: The rolls need to bake fully through to achieve the soft, pillowy texture inside. If they look golden on top but feel dense, they may need a few more minutes in the oven.
5. Not Enough Rest Time for Dough: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for fluffy, soft rolls. Don’t skip the resting periods, as they give the yeast time to work and the dough to develop flavor and texture.

By keeping these notes in mind and avoiding common mistakes, your Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls will be nothing short of perfection!

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What to Serve With Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls?

While these Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary dishes can elevate your entire meal. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these pairing ideas will help you create a well-rounded spread.

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8 Recommendations to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like melon, kiwi, and blueberries will balance the richness of the rolls and add a refreshing touch to your meal.
2. Scrambled Eggs: A simple, fluffy scramble adds a savory element to your breakfast or brunch spread, complementing the sweet rolls nicely.
3. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy and crunchy contrast to the soft, sweet rolls.
4. Bacon or Sausages: Crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausages provide the perfect salty balance against the sweet and tangy flavors of the rolls.
5. Iced Coffee or Espresso: A chilled iced coffee or a strong espresso is a great drink pairing that cuts through the sweetness of the rolls and adds a bold flavor.
6. Mimosas: For a special occasion, serve these rolls with a refreshing mimosa. The citrusy bubbles complement the creamy cheesecake filling and strawberries perfectly.
7. Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert course, vanilla ice cream is an ideal side that adds richness and a cool contrast to the warm rolls.
8. Herbal Tea: If you’re serving these rolls during a more relaxed afternoon, a light herbal tea like chamomile or mint will add a calming flavor and provide a nice balance.

These pairings will make your Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls even more enjoyable, creating a variety of textures and flavors that will leave your guests satisfied and impressed!

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Storage Instructions

These Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, don’t worry! Proper storage can help maintain their softness and flavor for a few days.

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the rolls within 1–2 days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep the rolls soft and prevent them from drying out.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the rolls in the fridge. Wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. The cream cheese frosting might harden a bit in the fridge, but the rolls will still remain delicious.
3. Freezing: To store them for an extended period, you can freeze the rolls. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their softness.
4. Frosting Storage: If you have leftover frosting, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge. You can re-whip it with a little milk to bring it back to the right consistency before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

While these rolls are undoubtedly a sweet treat, it’s always nice to have an idea of what you’re consuming. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for one Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Roll:

• Calories: 320-350 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

Keep in mind that the nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. For a lighter version, you can adjust the amount of frosting or glaze used. Regardless, these rolls are meant to be an indulgence, and they’re sure to bring a smile to your face with every bite!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different fruit for the topping instead of strawberries?

Yes, you can absolutely use other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have varying moisture levels, so adjust the glaze to account for that.

2. Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before. Once you shape the rolls, cover and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

3. How can I make these rolls dairy-free?

To make these rolls dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and dairy-free butter in the dough.

4. Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, these rolls freeze very well. After baking and cooling, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them!

5. How can I make the rolls less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or glaze. You can also use less frosting to suit your taste.

6. Can I make the cream cheese filling in advance?

Yes, the cheesecake filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you are ready to use it. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the dough.

7. Why is my dough not rising?

If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the milk isn’t too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Also, ensure your dough is in a warm environment for rising.

8. Can I add more flavor to the frosting?

Yes, you can add flavorings like lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon to the cream cheese frosting to give it a unique twist. Just be sure to balance the sweetness if you add extra flavors.

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Conclusion

These Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that brings together the best elements of soft, fluffy rolls, rich cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries. With easy-to-follow instructions, you can make this indulgent dessert or breakfast treat at home, perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or as a special treat later on, these rolls are sure to impress with their sweetness and beautiful presentation. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the perfect combination of cheesecake and sweet rolls—because these are truly a treat worth making!

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