Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls

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Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining a creamy cheesecake filling with a burst of fresh blueberries. These rolls offer a sweet, tangy, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a soft and fluffy dough, luscious cheesecake filling, and a blueberry swirl, these rolls are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Blueberry Swirl:

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rolling pin
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Small saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, warm the milk until it’s slightly warm to the touch (110°F or 45°C). Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, butter, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  3. Knead and Rise: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Blueberry Swirl

  1. Cook Blueberries: In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries burst, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

  1. Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches.
  2. Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cheesecake filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  3. Add Blueberry Swirl: Spoon the cooled blueberry mixture over the cheesecake filling and gently spread it out.
  4. Roll Up: Carefully roll the dough up from one long side into a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal.
  5. Cut Rolls: Slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Let Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  3. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

  1. Mix Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar if needed.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

  1. Glaze Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls.
  2. Serve: Enjoy the rolls warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Tricks

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened for the filling to ensure a smooth texture.
  • Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from becoming too dry.
  • Frozen Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before cooking to prevent excess liquid in the swirl.

Variations

  • Berry Mix: Substitute blueberries with a mix of raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries for a mixed berry swirl.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra indulgent treat, top the rolls with a cream cheese frosting instead of the glaze.
  • Cinnamon Sugar Roll: If you prefer a classic flavor, omit the blueberry swirl and cheesecake filling and use a cinnamon sugar mixture instead.

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with a side of fresh fruit and a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
  • Dessert: These rolls make a perfect dessert served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Gifts: Package them in a decorative box for a delicious homemade gift.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls are a decadent and delicious treat that bring together the creamy richness of cheesecake and the fresh, fruity flavor of blueberries. With their soft, fluffy texture and irresistible glaze, these rolls are sure to be a hit at any breakfast, brunch, or dessert table. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!

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