Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls

Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls—a delightful concoction that blends the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries—have quickly become a family favorite in our household. Their irresistible aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a delectable treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent dessert. The first time I made these rolls, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. My family couldn’t get enough of them, and even those who were skeptical about combining cheesecake and sweet rolls became instant fans. There’s something about the melding of flavors, the creamy filling, and the soft, pillowy dough that makes every bite a little piece of heaven.

Ingredients

To create these heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup strawberries, diced
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls is a delightful process that combines the art of baking with a touch of culinary creativity. Here’s how you can make them:

1. Prepare the Dough: Start by mixing the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, and butter until warm and the butter has melted. Be careful not to overheat. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with the egg. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, mix the diced strawberries and sugar in a small bowl. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, followed by the strawberry and sugar mixture.
3. Roll and Cut: Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the longer side. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool slightly in the pan.
5. Glaze: While the rolls are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle over the warm rolls before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 rolls

Calories per Serving: Approximately 250 calories

Preparation Time

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 2 hours (including rising time)

Active Cooking Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

These Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls can be served in a variety of delightful ways:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
• Dust with extra powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
• Top with fresh strawberry slices for added freshness and visual appeal.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the creamy texture.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls turn out perfectly every time:

1. Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture for the filling. Avoid using frozen strawberries as they tend to release too much moisture.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that ingredients like cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother filling.
3. Proper Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour; if too dry, add a little more milk.
4. Even Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to ensure all the rolls cook at the same rate and have a uniform appearance.
5. Glaze While Warm: Apply the glaze while the rolls are still warm to allow it to seep into the rolls, enhancing their flavor.

FAQ Section

Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers about making Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls:

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

   Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of the second rise and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking the next day.

2. Can I freeze these rolls?

   Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls. Allow them to cool completely, wrap them tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven.

3. Can I use a different fruit for the filling?

   Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even use a mix of fruits.

4. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

   You can make this recipe vegan by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and cream cheese alternatives.

5. How do I store leftover rolls?

   Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.