Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls

Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls are the ultimate marriage of two irresistible desserts—cheesecake and sweet rolls—resulting in a soft, buttery swirl of dough layered with creamy vanilla cheesecake filling and a vibrant, jammy blueberry sauce. These rolls are not only visually stunning with their deep purple swirls, but they’re also bursting with flavor and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a dessert that feels like a treat from a high-end bakery. Whether made for a holiday breakfast, a weekend indulgence, or a special family occasion, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your home.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:

    • 410 g all-purpose flour

    • 7 g (1 packet) dry yeast

    • 50 g sugar

    • ½ tsp salt

    • 180 ml warm milk (about 45°C)

    • 60 g melted butter

    • 1 egg

  • For the Blueberry Filling:

    • 200 g fresh or frozen blueberries

    • 50 g sugar

    • 1 tbsp lemon juice

    • 2 tsp cornstarch

  • For the Cheesecake Filling:

    • 225 g cream cheese, at room temperature

    • 50 g sugar

    • ½ tsp vanilla extract

  • For the Glaze (optional):

    • 60 g powdered sugar

    • 1–2 tbsp milk or lemon juice

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough
    In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt, then gradually incorporate the flour. Knead for 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  2. Make the Blueberry Filling
    In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Let cool completely.

  3. Prepare Cheesecake Filling
    Beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

  4. Assemble the Rolls
    Roll the dough into a rectangle (approx. 40×30 cm). Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough. Spoon blueberry mixture on top and gently swirl with the back of a spoon or knife. Roll tightly from the long edge and cut into 12 equal rolls.

  5. Second Rise
    Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish (approx. 33×23 cm). Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.

  6. Bake
    Preheat oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

  7. Glaze and Serve
    Whisk powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice and drizzle over the warm rolls. Serve and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Roll)

  • Calories: ~290 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 38 g

  • Protein: 5 g

  • Fat: 12 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugar: 16 g

  • Calcium: 60 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

While traditional cinnamon rolls trace their roots to Sweden and Northern Europe, this blueberry cheesecake variation is a more modern, American-inspired twist. The combination of cheesecake and sweet roll dough has grown in popularity in the past decade, thanks to the rise of gourmet brunch culture and social media platforms showcasing “swirl-worthy” bakes. Blueberries, a native North American fruit, pair beautifully with creamy elements, making them a frequent feature in cheesecakes and breakfast pastries.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls check all the boxes for a treat that’s:

  • Visually stunning with deep blueberry swirls

  • Rich, creamy, and fruity in flavor

  • Perfectly soft with just the right sweetness

  • Great for make-ahead breakfast or brunch

  • Easily customizable with other fruits or spices

Health Benefits

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which support heart and brain health. Cream cheese, when used in moderation, provides calcium and a creamy protein boost. By making these rolls at home, you can also control the sugar content and use high-quality, whole ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls:

  • Warm out of the oven with fresh berries on the side

  • With a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream

  • Paired with coffee, chai latte, or freshly squeezed orange juice

  • At brunch spreads alongside savory egg dishes

  • As a sweet snack with afternoon tea

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overproofing the dough: Too long, and the rolls may deflate.

  • Overfilling with berries: Can lead to soggy rolls or leaking.

  • Underbaking: Check that the dough is fully cooked in the center before removing.

  • Hot filling: Allow blueberry and cream cheese fillings to cool before assembling.

  • Tough dough: Avoid over-kneading or using too much flour.

Pairing Recommendations

Drinks:

  • Hot coffee or espresso

  • Sparkling lemonade

  • Chilled milk or vanilla almond milk

Other Dishes:


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  • Scrambled eggs with herbs

  • Smoked salmon bagels

  • Fresh fruit salad

  • Yogurt and granola parfaits

Cooking Tips

  • Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.

  • Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh—no need to thaw.

  • To cut clean spirals, use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife.

  • If preparing the night before, let the rolls rise overnight in the fridge and bake fresh in the morning.

Similar Recipes to Try

  • Lemon Raspberry Sweet Rolls

  • Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish

  • Cinnamon Apple Sticky Buns

  • Cherry Cheesecake Muffins

  • Orange Cranberry Morning Buns

Variations to Try

  • Swap blueberries for raspberries, cherries, or blackberries

  • Add lemon zest or cinnamon to the dough for extra flavor

  • Use a chocolate chip cream cheese filling for dessert rolls

  • Drizzle with white chocolate instead of glaze

  • Make mini versions using muffin tins

Ingredient Spotlight

Blueberries shine in this recipe not just for their bright color and flavor, but also their health benefits. They’re one of the most antioxidant-rich fruits and contain vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. When cooked, their juices create a natural syrup that perfectly complements the creamy filling.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls are a beautiful blend of rich, fruity, and creamy elements wrapped in soft, fluffy dough. They’re the perfect weekend baking project or celebratory brunch dish. With their heavenly aroma, gorgeous presentation, and rich taste, these rolls are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will become a go-to in your collection.

10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make these the night before?
    Yes, assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

  2. Can I freeze these rolls?
    Absolutely. Bake them fully, let cool, and freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.

  3. Can I use store-bought blueberry jam?
    Yes, though homemade filling gives fresher flavor. Make sure it’s thick.

  4. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
    You can substitute mascarpone or ricotta blended with powdered sugar.

  5. Can I make them vegan?
    Yes—use plant milk, vegan cream cheese, and an egg substitute like flaxseed.

  6. Do I need to proof the yeast separately?
    Yes, especially if using active dry yeast. This step ensures it’s alive.

  7. Can I use whole wheat flour?
    You can swap up to half of the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier taste.

  8. Why did my filling leak out?
    Too much filling or too loose texture. Chill before assembling to help prevent leaks.

  9. Can I add nuts?
    Yes—walnuts or pecans add crunch and pair beautifully with blueberries.

  10. How long do leftovers last?
    Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 4 days.