Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Incorporate the yeast mixture, then beat in the eggs.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- While the dough is rising, in a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- In another bowl, mix the diced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let the strawberries sit for a few minutes to macerate.
Roll the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12 x 16 inches.
- Evenly spread the cheesecake filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 12 equal rolls.
Bake the Rolls
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- While your rolls are baking, whisk together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Assemble & Serve
- Once the rolls are beautifully baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over them generously.
- Top the sweet rolls with the macerated strawberries.
- Serve warm.
Notes
To intensify the strawberry flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of strawberry extract to the cream cheese filling. Optional to sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top before baking for a fun twist.
