What’s the perfect twist on a classic breakfast treat? Strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls, made with tender strawberries and a flaky homemade dough, are a delicious easy breakfast option. Save this idea for a quick weekend brunch favorite to try soon

strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls on a white plate

Introduction

Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls, perfectly arranged on a white plate, ready to start your day with a delightful twist. These delectable treats combine the classic flavors of strawberry and cheesecake, wrapped in a soft, fluffy dough, making them an ideal breakfast or brunch option for any occasion. What’s more, they’re surprisingly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with your favorite fillings and toppings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls are sure to impress your family and friends with their unique flavor balance and beautiful presentation.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake filling, and soft dough creates a perfect harmony of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores, making it a convenient recipe to follow.
• Ease of preparation: Despite their impressive appearance, these sweet rolls are relatively simple to prepare. The dough comes together quickly, and the filling can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy mornings.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for these strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls include a package of active dry yeast, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of warm water, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 cup of strawberry jam or preserves, and 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened. For the cheesecake filling, you’ll also need 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor, or replacing the strawberry jam with another fruit preserve of your choice.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in the warm water, then combine the flour, salt, sugar, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and shiny.
2. Step 2: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. Meanwhile, prepare the cheesecake filling by beating the cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the strawberry jam or preserves over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on either side. Top the jam with the cheesecake filling, spreading it evenly. Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log into 8-10 equal pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
4. Step 4: Bake the sweet rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before drizzling with the glaze. Serve warm and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough sweet rolls. Also, don’t overbake, as this can cause the rolls to dry out. To avoid this, check the rolls frequently during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Heat Control

To achieve the perfect golden brown color and soft texture, it’s essential to control the heat during the baking process. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the sweet rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on the rolls during the last 5 minutes of baking, as the baking time may vary depending on your oven. You can also check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a roll; if it comes out clean, the rolls are ready.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls comes from the toasted pecans or walnuts that can be sprinkled on top of the rolls before baking. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to toast the nuts in a 350°F (180°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. You can also add a sprinkle of granulated sugar on top of the rolls before baking for an extra crunchy texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the sweet rolls more visually appealing, brush the tops with a beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar before baking. This will give the rolls a beautiful golden brown color and a crunchy texture.
• Use a pizza stone in the oven to achieve a crispy crust on the bottom of the rolls. Simply place the stone in the oven during the preheating process and bake the rolls on the stone.

Storage Tips

• Leftover sweet rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To freeze, place the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warm and toasted.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls make a perfect gift for friends and family, especially during the holiday season. To package, place the rolls in a decorative tin or container and wrap with a ribbon or twine. You can also add a personalized note or card with the recipe and baking instructions. For a more rustic look, place the rolls in a paper bag or a wicker basket and tie with a ribbon or twine.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and comforting flavor. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cheesecake filling for a more intense flavor.
• Creative toppings: Top the sweet rolls with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for a decorative touch. You can also drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet and sticky topping.
• Ingredient swaps: Replace the strawberry jam with another fruit preserve, such as raspberry or blueberry, for a different flavor profile. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mascarpone or ricotta, for a creamier cheesecake filling.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more water. Make sure to not overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough sweet rolls.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as a substitute. If you don’t have strawberry jam, you can use another fruit preserve or even Nutella for a chocolatey twist.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the rolls are undercooked, they will be pale and soft. If they’re overcooked, they will be dark brown and dry. Make sure to check the rolls frequently during the last 5 minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the sweet rolls for up to 2 months. Simply place the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make more sweet rolls. Simply multiply the ingredients and follow the same instructions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these strawberry cheesecake sweet rolls are a delicious and impressive treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their unique flavor balance and beautiful presentation, they’re sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the recipe and try different flavor variations and toppings. Happy baking!