Name: Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 260 ml (1 cup) warm milk; 10 g (1 tbsp) instant dry yeast; 540 g (4 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour; 65 g (⅓ cup) granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 large egg, room temperature; 80 g (⅓ cup) unsalted butter, very soft; 250 g (1 ¾ cups) fresh or frozen strawberries; 50 g (¼ cup) granulated sugar (for filling); Juice of half a lemon; 100 g (½ cup) cream cheese, softened; 40 g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened (for glaze); 60 g (½ cup) powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp strawberry puree, cold (from the filling)

Freshly baked strawberry cinnamon rolls with strawberry glaze

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home, captivating everyone in its path. The warm, fragrant scent of cinnamon mingles with the sweet and tart notes of ripe strawberries, giving way to a delightful experience that beckons you closer. Each bite of these strawberry cinnamon rolls has an inviting softness, the pillowy dough yielding to your touch as you sink your teeth into the rich, berry-filled centers. You can almost hear the sigh of contentment from friends and family as they relish the combination of flavors—not just a treat for the palate, but a memory waiting to be made.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a freshly baked roll, the subtle heat melting the luscious cream cheese glaze that drips down the sides, mingling with hints of berry goodness. The slightly crispy edges provide a satisfying contrast to the gooey, cinnamon-sweetened filling nestled within. These strawberry cinnamon rolls serve as more than just breakfast; they are perfect for brunch gatherings, festive celebrations, or a cozy weekend indulgence. They encompass the warmth of homemade goodness and the joy of bringing loved ones together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Strawberry cinnamon rolls promise to tantalize your taste buds in ways that traditional cinnamon rolls simply cannot. They combine the warm familiarity of cinnamon with the freshness of strawberries, creating an unforgettable treat that brightens any occasion. Picture serving these glorious rolls at a Sunday brunch; your guests will swoon as they savor the sweet surprise hidden within. The joy of seeing their faces light up will be a highlight of your day, making these rolls not just a dish, but a delightful experience.

The texture alone will make you swoon—fluffy, soft dough enveloped in a sweet, creamy glaze all harmonizing with the vibrant taste of strawberries. The versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it for various occasions, whether you want to impress guests at a potluck or simply enjoy a lazy Saturday morning. Sweet, velvety, and dotted with nature’s candy, they offer a unique twist to a classic favorite that deserves a special place in your baking repertoire.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

A few essential tools will elevate your baking and ensure that these strawberry cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly.

Stand Mixer: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook saves time and effort when kneading the dough to achieve the perfect consistency. The mixer combines the ingredients thoroughly, allowing you to pay attention to the finer details of your filling and glaze.
Rolling Pin: A trusty rolling pin makes it easy to roll out the dough uniformly, creating even layers for rolling up the filling. For optimal results, choose a lightweight wooden pin that feels comfortable in your hands.
Sharp Knife or Dental Floss: Cutting the rolled dough into individual pieces can be tricky without the right tools. A sharp knife minimizes tearing, while unflavored dental floss creates cleaner cuts, preserving the delightful spiral shape.
Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish ensures that your rolls are snug during rising and baking, creating an environment for them to rise beautifully without spreading out too much.

Pro Tip: Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results. Baking is a science, and the balance of ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall outcome of this recipe.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

260 ml (1 cup) warm milk
10 g (1 tbsp) instant dry yeast
540 g (4 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour
65 g (⅓ cup) granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 large egg, room temperature
80 g (⅓ cup) unsalted butter, very soft
250 g (1 ¾ cups) fresh or frozen strawberries
50 g (¼ cup) granulated sugar (for filling)
Juice of half a lemon
100 g (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
40 g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened (for glaze)
60 g (½ cup) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp strawberry puree, cold (from the filling)

Let’s talk about the star ingredients: strawberries. Their vibrant flavor and natural sweetness elevate the dish. Fresh strawberries shine in this recipe, but frozen can work if fresh isn’t available. Pair them with fragrant cinnamon and creamy butter, and you’ll experience a warmth that envelops your senses.

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In a saucepan, combine the fresh or frozen strawberries with lemon juice and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and blend until smooth using an immersion blender or food processor. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until completely cool.
Mix the Dough: In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix briefly. Then, add the warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Knead on medium speed for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, slightly pulling away from the bowl sides. The dough should feel soft but not overly sticky. Cover it with a clean cloth and place it in a warm, draft-free spot to rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 40 x 30 cm (16 x 12 inches). Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border at one end. Starting from the opposite long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 12 even strips using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
Second Rise: Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish (a 9×13 inch dish works perfectly), ensuring some space between each roll. Cover and allow them to rise in a warm environment for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until puffy.
Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for about 20-25 minutes or until they take on a lovely golden brown hue and feel soft to the touch. Allow them to cool slightly in the dish.
Prepare the Glaze: While the rolls cool, whip together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and the cold strawberry puree in a medium bowl for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sweetness or consistency by adding more powdered sugar or a splash of milk.
Finish and Serve: Generously spread the freshly made strawberry cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls. The warmth will allow the glaze to melt gently, sinking into every sweet nook and cranny of these rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the divinely warm and tangy flavors that burst forth.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Let the rolls rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, just let them come to room temperature, bake, and glaze!
Cooking Alternatives: If you’re short on time, an air fryer can achieve similar results; just keep an eye on the baking time, as it can vary.
Customization Ideas: Feel free to experiment! Add a dash of almond extract to your glaze for an unexpected flavor twist, or fold in some chocolate chips for indulgence. You could also swap the strawberries for other berries, like raspberries or blueberries, to suit your taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overworking the Dough: Kneading too long can lead to dry, tough rolls. Keep an eye on the dough until it reaches a soft, elastic consistency.
Improper Rising Times: Don’t rush the rising process. It’s essential for developing the soft texture. Check for double size before proceeding.
Not Enough Space in the Baking Dish: Leaving too little space between the rolls can cause them to bake into one another. Ensure proper spacing for beautifully shaped rolls.

What to Serve With Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Coffee or Tea: The aromatic flavors of coffee or herbal teas complement the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, vibrant fruit salad provides a refreshing break from the sweetness.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Yogurt Parfaits: Swap out your usual breakfast for a healthy parfait layered with yogurt, granola, and these delicious rolls.
Maple Syrup: For those who love their breakfast sweet and drizzle some pure maple syrup over the rolls for an unforgettable experience.
Savory Breakfast Options: Pair with crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced brunch spread.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Store leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, wrap them securely and freeze them for up to 2 months.

To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave each roll for about 20 seconds for a quick warm-up.

Estimated Nutrition Information

This recipe yields approximately 12 rolls. Each roll averages about 220 calories, including the glaze (please note that calorie counts vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes). This estimate excludes custom additions or substitutions.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other berries, or even apples or cherries for a new twist.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the other ingredients.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend that can substitute for all-purpose flour as a one-to-one replacement.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, simply reduce the powdered sugar to your taste. Adding a little extra lemon juice can enhance the flavor without making it overly sweet.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be lightly golden brown on top and feel soft to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Conclusion

Embrace the joy of baking with these delightful strawberry cinnamon rolls that are bursting with flavor and nostalgia. From their sweet, creamy glaze to the generous filling of strawberries and cinnamon, each bite delivers happiness that warms the heart. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a mid-afternoon snack, this treat offers a joyful bite that beckons you to have just one more. So gather your ingredients, let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of sweet strawberries and cinnamon, and create a delightful memory. Your taste buds will thank you!

Hi, I’m Clara!

I'm a food lover and a firm believer that anyone can learn to cook with a little curiosity and courage. My story with food didn’t begin in a tiny apartment with a two-burner stove and a stack of cookbooks from the local library. I was broke and desperate to make something anything that felt like home.

About Me