Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of cinnamon and cream cheese wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cozy family gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my latest creation: the Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon. This delightful dessert melds the indulgence of rich cheesecake with the nostalgic comfort of cinnamon rolls, making it a standout for any occasion. Not only is it a showstopper that will leave your guests in awe, but it also comes together surprisingly quickly, making it perfect for brunches, celebrations, or simply satisfying those sweet cravings. Trust me; there’s something magical about the combination of fresh strawberries and creamy filling, all wrapped in a soft cinnamon roll. So, are you ready to elevate your dessert game and wow everyone at your next gathering? Why is This Cinnabon a Must-Try? Deliciously Unique: This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon presents a perfect fusion of two beloved desserts into one heavenly treat. Ease of Preparation: With just a few simple steps, even novice bakers can impress their friends and family. Nostalgic Comfort: The cinnamon roll base brings back cozy memories, while the cheesecake filling adds a touch of indulgence. Flexible Variations: Customize it with different berries or toppings like chocolate chips or whipped cream to suit your taste! Impressive Presentation: Serve these rolls warm with a dazzling strawberry glaze to wow your guests while keeping them coming back for more. For more exciting dessert ideas, check out my delicious Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake and indulgent Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge! Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Ingredients For the Dough All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the dough, providing structure. Note: Can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-sensitive options. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling. Note: Use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative. Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. No substitutions needed, but cinnamon alternatives could alter the flavor. Butter – Enriches the dough for tenderness and flavor. Substitution: Plant-based butter or margarine can be used for dairy-free diets. Egg – Binds the ingredients and helps the dough rise. Substitution: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Milk – Hydrates the dough. Substitution: Almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Yeast – Leavens the dough, making it fluffy. Ensure it’s fresh for best results. For the Filling Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and tanginess to mimic cheesecake texture. Substitution: Vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Fresh Strawberries – Provides sweetness and a fruity flavor. Substitution: Frozen strawberries (thaw and drain before use). For the Glaze Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze, creating a smooth finish. Additional Strawberries – Blended to enhance the glaze’s fruity flavor and add a vibrant color. With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting a stunning Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon that’s sure to please family and friends! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Step 1: Prepare Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. In a small saucepan, warm 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of butter over low heat until just melted, then cool slightly. Gradually mix the warm mixture into the dry ingredients, then add 1 egg. Knead on a floured surface until smooth, about 5-7 minutes, and set aside in a greased bowl, covered, to rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour). Step 2: Prepare Filling While the dough rises, make the luscious filling for your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon. In a medium bowl, beat together 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until completely smooth. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the surface and sprinkle generously with ground cinnamon. Step 3: Shape Rolls Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, ensuring the filling stays inside. Once rolled, slice the log into approximately 12 equal pieces, each about 1.5 inches thick. Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space for expansion, and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow them to rise again at room temperature for 30 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled. Step 4: Bake Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising. Once ready, bake the strawberry cheesecake Cinnabons for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the edges are set. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking, as they should remain soft and fluffy to the touch. Step 5: Cool Down & Serve After baking, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare a strawberry glaze by blending 1 cup of fresh strawberries with 1 cup of powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle this delicious glaze over the warm rolls before serving. These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabons are best enjoyed while still warm, offering a delightful fusion of flavors in every bite. What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon? Indulge your senses with a full dessert experience that beautifully complements this delightful treat. Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a vibrant and refreshing contrast to the rich Cinnabons. Their natural tartness enhances the sweetness and provides a delightful burst of flavor. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds creaminess to each bite, perfectly balancing the decadent richness of the cheesecake filling. Coffee: A warm cup of aromatic coffee enhances the cozy vibes while offering a slightly bitter note that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the Cinnabon. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts deliciously into the warm rolls, creating a rich and indulgent dessert experience that feels like a warm hug. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some velvety chocolate sauce over the top for an extra layer of flavor and indulgence. The sweetness of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the fruity glaze. Petite Fruit Tart: A small fruit tart brings a delightful tartness and freshness; it echoes the strawberry theme while adding a crispy texture. Enjoy them side by side for a delightful medley of flavors. Milkshake: Blend up a creamy strawberry milkshake for a playful pairing, creating a fun and nostalgic dessert vibe that everyone will love. Lemon Sorbet: A light and zesty lemon sorbet will cleanse your palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Cinnabon, leaving you feeling bright and satisfied. Expert Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising; expired yeast will lead to dense rolls that don’t puff up properly. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth filling. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps. Don’t Rush the Rises: Allow both rises (dough and rolls) to complete fully; skipping these steps can result in less fluffy rolls. Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. Overbaking can dry them out, while underbaking may leave them doughy in the center. Customize the Glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the strawberry glaze to your taste; start with less powdered sugar and add more gradually. Avoid Filling Leakage: Roll the dough tightly and seal the edges well to prevent the creamy cheesecake filling from seeping out while baking. Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will cater to your tastes and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use almond or oat milk for a guilt-free indulgence. Your plant-based friends will appreciate the effort, as the combination remains rich and creamy, making every bite enjoyable. Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. The beauty here lies in the fluffy texture that still prevails, ensuring everyone can relish this delicious treat together. Berry Medley: Try swapping strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or even blackberries for a delightful mix of flavors. Each berry brings its unique sweetness, creating a vibrant medley that is perfect for those berry fans at your gathering. Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for an indulgent, chocolate-strawberry combo. This variation elevates the treat into a decadent dessert that could easily steal the spotlight at any dessert table. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of your rolls for an extra layer of luxurious sweetness. The rich caramel contrasts beautifully with the fluffy rolls, making for an irresistible treat that no one can resist. Cinnamon Roll Twist: For an extra kick, mix some additional ground cinnamon into the dough before rolling it out. This enhances that warm, comforting flavor, wrapping your taste buds in a nostalgic embrace with every bite. Chilled Delight: Refrigerate your dough overnight for a slow rise, enhancing the dough’s depth of flavor. Not only does this create a richer taste, but it also means less hassle on busy baking days—just roll and bake! Whipped Cream Topper: Serve with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream to add lightness and airiness to this rich dessert. This final touch brings a delightful creaminess that perfectly balances the flavors, taking your Cinnabon experience to the next level. For more creative dessert ideas, such as the delightful Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake or a refreshing Dirty Strawberry Soda, be sure to check out my other recipes! How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Room Temperature: Keep leftover Cinnabons in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain softness and flavor. Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven feel. Freezer: Freeze Cinnabons individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving. Reheating: To enjoy your Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Make Ahead Options These Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions up until the second rise; after shaping the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, allow the rolls to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding to bake as directed. This ensures they’ll be just as fluffy and delicious. By prepping ahead, you free up your time for other tasks, making it a breeze to enjoy warm, freshly baked Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabons even on the busiest mornings! Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best strawberries for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for those that are bright red, plump, and free from dark spots or mold. You want strawberries that feel firm to the touch but yield slightly when pressed. If you’re opting for frozen strawberries, make sure they are unsweetened, and remember to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using to prevent excess moisture in your Cinnabons. What is the best way to store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabons? Very easy! You can store leftover Cinnabons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that fresh-baked softness! Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabons? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your Cinnabons, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly? If you find that your dough isn’t rising, check a few things first. Ensure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast can result in dense rolls. Additionally, make sure you’re using warm (not hot) milk, as temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can kill the yeast. If needed, give it more time in a warm place—humidity can also affect rising, so try covering it with a damp cloth to maintain moisture. Are there any common allergens to consider with this recipe? Yes! This Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon includes common allergens like dairy (cream cheese and butter), eggs, and gluten (flour). If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter for dairy-free options, and opt for a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Always check the labels of your ingredients for any additional allergens. How do I know if my Cinnabons are done baking? Keep an eye on the baking time! The rolls are typically done when they turn golden brown and the centers feel set to the touch. If you gently tap on the top and it springs back, they’re ready! Also, check for a lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen—it’s a sure sign they’re close to perfection! Irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon for Sweet Moments Delight in the rich flavors of Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon, a unique dessert fusion perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs Servings: 12 rollsCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can be swapped with gluten-free flour blend1/3 cup Granulated Sugar Use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative2 teaspoons Yeast Ensure it's fresh for best results1 teaspoon Salt1 cup Milk Use almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free option1/4 cup Butter Use plant-based butter or margarine for dairy-free1 piece Egg Can substitute with a flax eggFor the Filling8 ounces Cream Cheese Use vegan cream cheese for dairy-free version1/4 cup Granulated Sugar1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract1 cup Fresh Strawberries Can use frozen strawberries, thawed and drained1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon No substitutions neededFor the Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar1 cup Additional Strawberries Blended for glaze Equipment Mixing bowlSaucepanRolling PinBaking Dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a saucepan, warm milk and butter until melted, cool slightly, then mix into dry ingredients. Add egg and knead until smooth. Let rise in a greased bowl until doubled, about 1 hour.In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Roll out dough into a rectangle, spread cream cheese mixture, and sprinkle with cinnamon.Roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log; slice into 12 pieces. Place in a greased baking dish, cover with a towel, and rise for 30 minutes.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Watch them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.Let cool for about 10 minutes, then prepare glaze by blending strawberries with powdered sugar. Drizzle over the warm rolls before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 160mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure yeast is fresh for optimal rising. Use room temperature ingredients for smooth filling. Allow rise times to be fully completed for fluffy rolls. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!