If you’re looking for the perfect sweet treat that feels both homemade and bakery-worthy, this Strawberry Cheesecake Bread is it. Imagine soft, pillowy dough filled with creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries, all rolled into a swirled masterpiece. It’s comforting, beautiful, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or treating yourself to a weekend bake, this dessert rolls recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Not only does it look elegant, but it’s also surprisingly simple to make. Because it uses homemade cinnamon roll dough as a base, it’s soft and fluffy with just the right amount of chew. However, instead of the traditional cinnamon and sugar filling, you get rich cream cheese and juicy strawberries in every bite. In short, it’s a hybrid of strawberry and cream cinnamon rolls and cheesecake—what’s not to love?

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A Sweet Twist on Classic Cinnamon Rolls

We all know and love classic cinnamon rolls, but this strawberry cheesecake version brings something different to the table. While cinnamon rolls rely on warm spices and brown sugar, this variation is all about freshness, richness, and a hint of tang. In fact, if you enjoy different cinnamon rolls and love experimenting in the kitchen, this is the kind of recipe that will have you coming back for more.

Because it uses a luscious cheesecake filling and real fruit, it has a lighter, brighter flavor than your average roll. As a result, it feels special enough for holidays and simple enough for everyday indulgence.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Bread

To make this sweet, swirled Strawberry Cheesecake Bread, you’ll need a few basic baking staples. These ingredients come together to make 12 fluffy, fruity rolls.

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1½ cups chopped strawberries
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

While the glaze is optional, it adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful finish. You can also sprinkle additional powdered sugar if you prefer a lighter topping.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Making homemade cinnamon roll dough might sound intimidating, but with the right tools, it’s easier than you think. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook or a wooden spoon and your hands
• Rolling pin
• Small saucepan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Sharp knife or dough cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or hand mixer

These simple tools make preparing and assembling the rolls efficient and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Bread From Scratch

Activate the Yeast

First, start by activating your yeast. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is essential, as it ensures your dough will rise properly and create that soft, fluffy texture.

Mix and Knead the Dough

Next, add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Begin adding flour one cup at a time, mixing after each addition. Once a soft dough forms, knead it for 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Then cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

Meanwhile, prepare the strawberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens, which takes about 5 minutes. After thickening, set it aside to cool completely before use.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. This simple mixture is the creamy element that turns your cinnamon rolls into a cheesecake-inspired treat.

Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, roughly 10 by 16 inches. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, then spoon the cooled strawberry filling on top. After that, roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice it into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dough cutter. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Let Rise and Bake

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F. Once the rolls are puffy and touching, bake them for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Glaze and Serve

Finally, if you’re glazing the rolls, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle it over warm rolls and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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Mastering Homemade Cinnamon Roll Dough

One of the most important components of this recipe is the dough. To ensure it’s light and fluffy, follow these simple tips.

First, make sure your milk is warm—not hot. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, and your dough won’t rise. A temperature around 105 to 110°F is perfect. In addition, be careful not to add too much flour. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not wet.

Kneading is also crucial. Whether you do it by hand or in a mixer, kneading helps build gluten, which gives the rolls structure. Once your dough passes the “windowpane test” (you can stretch it thin without tearing), it’s ready to rise.

Dessert Rolls Recipe Variations to Try

This recipe is delicious as is, but there are so many ways to customize it. For example, you can use raspberries instead of strawberries to create raspberry cheesecake rolls. Blueberries also work beautifully and create a jammy, rich texture.

In addition, you can mix in a little lemon zest for brightness, or swirl in Nutella with the cream cheese for a decadent twist. If you love lemon desserts, try using lemon curd in place of the berries.

Each of these variations offers a unique take on this classic dessert roll concept, making it fun to bake again and again.

What Makes These Absolutely Sinful Cinnamon Rolls So Irresistible

It’s not just the flavor—it’s the texture, aroma, and presentation. When warm from the oven, these rolls are soft, rich, and sweet, with a gentle tang from the cream cheese and a pop of fruit in every bite. As the filling melts into the bread, the rolls become even more gooey and delicious.

In short, it’s easy to see why these are called absolutely sinful cinnamon rolls. They’re indulgent, comforting, and completely irresistible.

Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls for Special Occasions

These rolls are perfect for nearly any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, planning a Mother’s Day breakfast, or setting the table for a bridal shower, they fit right in.

Moreover, their vibrant pink centers and glossy glaze make them beautiful to look at. You can even shape the dough into a heart before baking for a Valentine’s Day twist. Because they’re easy to make ahead, they’re also a great option for holiday baking.

How to Store and Reheat Strawberries and Cream Rolls

If you somehow have leftovers, you’re in luck. These rolls store beautifully and reheat well too.

Allow the rolls to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 20 seconds or place in a 300°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat the next morning.

For best results, add a fresh drizzle of glaze before serving. That way, they taste just as fresh and delicious as day one.

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FAQ: Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Made Easy

Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, refrigerated crescent dough or frozen bread dough can work in a pinch. However, homemade dough will give you better texture and flavor.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the rolls the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Let them rise at room temperature before baking in the morning.

What if I don’t have fresh strawberries? Frozen berries work too—just be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.

Is the glaze necessary? It’s optional, but highly recommended. The glaze adds sweetness and ties all the flavors together.

Can I freeze them? Yes. Bake, cool, and freeze the unglazed rolls. Reheat in the oven and glaze before serving.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Bread is everything a perfect dessert should be—soft, rich, fruity, and unforgettable. With its creamy filling, sweet berries, and homemade dough, it’s a standout recipe you’ll want to bake again and again. Whether you call them strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls or strawberries and cream rolls, there’s no doubt they’ll become a family favorite.

Try this recipe for your next brunch or special celebration and enjoy a swirl of sweet satisfaction. Don’t forget to save, share, and subscribe for more delicious recipes like this one.

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