Ingredients
Method
Preparing the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine lukewarm whole milk and active dry yeast. Stir until dissolved and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy to activate.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, incorporate a small amount of flour.
- Form the dough into a ball and place in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in volume.
Preparing the Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream or Greek yogurt; beat until smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Soften butter until spreadable.
Assembling the Rolls
- After the first rise, punch down the dough to remove air. Roll out on a floured surface into a 16 x 12-inch rectangle.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a border. Spread cheesecake filling over the butter, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log and pinch the seam to seal. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
- Arrange slices in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Cover loosely and allow to rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffed.
Baking the Rolls
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake risen rolls for 25–30 minutes, until golden. If they brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before icing.
Preparing the Icing and Serving
- Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Gradually add whole milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- Spread or drizzle cream cheese icing over warm rolls.
- Thinly slice fresh strawberries and arrange them over the iced rolls.
Notes
Enhance the rolls with chocolate chips or customize with different fruits like blueberries or bananas for variations.
