Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cheesecake filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (or frozen, thawed, and drained)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the filling)
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the flour mixture, followed by the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: While the dough is rising, make the filling by mixing the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries. If you’d like a thicker filling, add a tablespoon of cornstarch.
- Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangular shape (about 12×9 inches).
- Assemble the rolls: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border. Carefully roll up the dough into a log shape, pinching the edges to seal.
- Slice the rolls: Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 8-10 even slices.
- Prepare for baking: Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Place the rolls in the dish, leaving a little space between them. Cover and let them rise for about 30 minutes.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
- Make the glaze: While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
- Finish the rolls: Once the rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over them. Serve warm and enjoy!