If you are ready to brighten up your breakfast table or surprise your guests with something wonderfully sweet and fruity, this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will become your new favorite. Imagine tender, fluffy rolls filled with a luscious cinnamon-sugar blend and juicy fresh strawberries, all topped with a silky cream cheese glaze that brings everything together in the most delightful way. It is such a joyful treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while adding a fresh burst of berry flavor that’s unlike any typical cinnamon roll you’ve tried before.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role to ensure the dough rises perfectly, the filling is bursting with flavor, and the final glaze is smooth and creamy.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives body and structure to these rolls, ensuring they bake up soft and fluffy.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the dough to balance the tartness of strawberries.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: The magic agent that makes the dough rise beautifully, giving it that irresistible airy texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed: Provides moisture and richness, helping the yeast activate smoothly.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the dough and keeps it tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a rich, soft crumb.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Used for the cinnamon-strawberry filling to create a luscious spreadable layer.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Gives the filling a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the fruit.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: The classic spice that warms and flavors the filling.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped: The star of the show, bringing fresh taste and a slight tang to the filling.
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves: Adds a sticky, fruity dimension that amplifies the strawberry flavor.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the rich and tangy base for the glaze topping.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze and helps achieve that smooth finish.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the glaze luxuriously creamy and pourable.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatic note to the glaze, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets frothy—this confirms your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. Next, add the melted butter, eggs, salt, and gradually mix in the flour until the dough begins to come together. Knead gently for about 8–10 minutes until it’s soft, smooth, and just a bit tacky. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, roughly 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until creamy. Then fold in the finely chopped strawberries and strawberry jam. This mixture will be the luscious, fruity filling that makes these rolls so special, combining spicy warmth with fresh berry sweetness.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 16 by 12 inches. Spread the strawberry cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, covering every inch. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, tucking it in to keep the filling inside. Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish with a little space to grow. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have puffed up nicely, bake them for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. That sweet aroma will have your kitchen smelling heavenly—almost impossible to wait for them to cool before sampling!
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This glaze will add a final rich touch, perfectly balancing the fruity filling and warm cinnamon.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle them generously with the cream cheese glaze. Serve warm for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience, and watch everyone dive into these strawberry-studded delights with huge smiles.
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe truly shine, consider garnishing with some fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios. These add a pop of color and texture that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Side Dishes
This dessert-like breakfast or brunch pairs wonderfully with a simple green smoothie or a freshly brewed cup of coffee to balance the sweetness. For a more indulgent brunch, serve with scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a perfect sweet-and-savory combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like impressing your guests? Arrange the rolls on a decorative cake stand or serve them in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You can also drizzle extra glaze in a zigzag pattern for an artistic flair that makes these rolls irresistible at first glance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. For longer storage, refrigeration is an option, but be aware they might dry out slightly and will taste best after reheating.
Freezing
For the ultimate convenience, you can freeze unfrosted cinnamon rolls after the first rise or fully baked ones that have cooled completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before glazing and serving.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or thawed rolls in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. To avoid drying, cover them loosely with foil. You can also microwave individual servings for about 20 seconds, but the oven method keeps the texture closer to fresh-baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries work best because they add a nice texture and natural tang, but if you only have frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that can make the filling soggy.
Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and do the first rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out, filling, and proceeding with the recipe.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the glaze?
If you’re avoiding cream cheese, Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can be substituted for a similar creamy texture, although the flavor will be slightly different.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting dry?
Make sure not to overbake and cover the rolls with foil while reheating. Also, storing them in an airtight container helps retain moisture.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts mix perfectly with the cinnamon and strawberry filling, adding a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe to bring a smile to your face and make any morning feel extra special. With their perfect balance of sweet strawberries, warm cinnamon, and creamy glaze, these rolls are sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. Give them a try; your kitchen will thank you.
Print
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect blend of fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon sugar, and fresh strawberry flavor. These rolls are topped with a luscious cream cheese and strawberry glaze, making them an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated. Next, add the melted butter, eggs, salt, and flour gradually. Knead the mixture on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl until well combined. Chop the fresh strawberries finely and have the strawberry jam ready.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches.
- Add Filling and Roll: Spread the softened butter mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the chopped strawberries on top, then drizzle or spread the strawberry jam evenly over the filling layer. Carefully roll the dough tightly from the longer side into a log.
- Cut and Arrange Rolls: Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the rolls cut-side up on a greased or parchment-lined baking pan, leaving some space between each roll for expansion.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls loosely with a towel and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffed and nearly doubled in size.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle or spread the cream cheese and strawberry glaze generously over the warm rolls before serving. Enjoy your fresh strawberry cinnamon rolls warm!
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but frozen can work if thawed and drained.
- You can substitute cream cheese glaze with simple powdered sugar icing if preferred.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- For a richer dough, you can add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to the dough mixture.
