Sweet Cheese Rolls

Instructions for Making Sweet Cheese Rolls

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. If the mixture doesn’t bubble, it may indicate that the yeast is not active, and you’ll need to start with a fresh packet.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, along with the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, or knead by hand.

Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as you want the dough to stay soft.

2. Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The rising time may vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen.

3. Make the Cheese Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice or zest (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined. You can use a hand mixer or whisk to ensure the mixture is lump-free. If you like a richer filling, you can also add an egg yolk to the mixture for extra creaminess. Set the filling aside.

4. Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border on all sides.

Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log. Once rolled, pinch the seam to seal it. Slice the dough log into 12 equal portions using a sharp knife or dental floss.

5. Bake the Rolls

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the rolled-up dough portions in the dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes to an hour until they puff up.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and the cheese filling is slightly bubbling. The rolls should be soft and lightly golden on top.

6. Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, you can prepare the optional glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

7. Finish and Serve

Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls for an extra touch of sweetness and shine. Alternatively, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a lighter finish.

Serve the Sweet Cheese Rolls warm, and enjoy the combination of soft dough and creamy, sweet filling.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Cheese Rolls

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it into the filling. Cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy filling.
• Customize the Filling: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for added flavor, or fold in some chocolate chips, raisins, or crushed nuts for variety.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these rolls ahead of time. After assembling and cutting the rolls, cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
• Don’t Over-Bake: Watch the rolls carefully as they bake. The top should be golden brown, but the rolls should remain soft and tender inside.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Cheese Rolls

• Perfectly Sweet: The combination of the soft, fluffy dough with the sweet, creamy cheese filling is a match made in heaven.
• Versatile: These rolls can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They’re perfect for special occasions or a simple treat to enjoy with your morning coffee.
• Easy to Make: While they take a little time to rise and bake, the process itself is simple and straightforward. The end result is totally worth the effort.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the filling to suit your tastes by adding different spices, citrus, or even fruits.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Cheese Rolls are an irresistible combination of soft, fluffy dough and rich, creamy cheese filling. They’re sweet enough to satisfy your dessert cravings but mild enough to enjoy as a morning treat. With a buttery dough, smooth cheese center, and optional glaze, these rolls are perfect for anyone who loves the delightful combination of sweet and creamy flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and make these delightful sweet cheese rolls today!