Strawberry Cheesecake Sweet Rolls Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 cups whole milk, warmed
• 0.25 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 0.25 cups powdered sugar
• 0.5 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 0.5 tsp cinnamon
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 0.5 cups strawberry glaze for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead and Rise: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, chopped strawberries, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Roll and Fill: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 0.25 inch thick. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Shape the Rolls: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the log into 1-inch rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.
6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Egg Wash: Beat the extra egg and brush it over the tops of the rolls for a golden finish.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
10. Glaze (Optional): While the rolls are baking, prepare the strawberry glaze if desired. Drizzle over the warm rolls once they are cooled slightly for an extra burst of sweetness.
11. Serve: Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy the delightful blend of strawberry and cheesecake flavors in a soft, comforting roll!