If you are looking for a luscious treat that combines the warm spices of classic cinnamon rolls with the fresh, juicy burst of berries, then this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a must-try. Imagine tender, fluffy rolls filled with a sweet cinnamon-spiced strawberry filling and crowned with a rich cream cheese glaze that melts delightfully over the top. This recipe brings together fragrant cinnamon and vibrant strawberries in a way that will brighten any morning or dessert table. It’s straightforward to make but delivers a bakery-quality experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance of your strawberry cinnamon rolls. From the soft flour base to the sweet strawberry filling and creamy glaze, every component works in harmony.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of our dough, providing structure and tenderness.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a pleasant sweetness that balances the tartness of strawberries.
- Active dry yeast: The magic agent that makes the dough rise, yielding soft and airy rolls.
- Salt: Enhances flavors and balances sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- Warm milk: Activates the yeast and ensures a soft dough texture.
- Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Contributes richness and tenderness both in the dough and filling.
- Egg: Adds richness and helps bind ingredients, giving the dough a lovely texture.
- Fresh strawberries (diced): Bring natural sweetness and vibrant bursts of flavor to the filling.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm, fragrant spice that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the juicy filling to prevent sogginess in the rolls.
- Cream cheese (softened): The base of the glaze, offering tangy sweetness for the perfect finishing touch.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze and creates a smooth, velvety texture.
- Milk (for glaze): Adjusts the consistency of the glaze to drizzle perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze with a subtle aromatic warmth.
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, signaling the yeast is active and ready. Next, add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour to the mixture. Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This kneading process is essential for developing the gluten, which ensures your rolls will be tender yet have that perfect chewy bite. Once done, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—about one hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Cinnamon Filling
While the dough is rising, mix the diced fresh strawberries with sugar, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch in a small bowl. The sugar sweetens the berries and helps create a syrupy filling, while the cinnamon adds that signature warm spice. The cornstarch thickens the mixture, preventing the filling from soaking into the dough too much and keeping your rolls beautifully moist, but not soggy.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a 10 by 15-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough — this layer adds richness and helps the filling stick in place. Then, spread the strawberry filling over the buttered dough. Rolling the dough carefully from the long side into a tight log ensures even strawberry distribution in every bite. Slice the log into 9 to 12 rolls and arrange them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes, which encourages that wonderful fluffy texture.
Step 4: Bake and Glaze the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they are a beautiful golden brown and cooked through. As the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese glaze by beating together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the warm rolls right out of the oven for the ultimate creamy and sweet finish that completes the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe perfectly.
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish can elevate the presentation and add another flavor layer. Fresh strawberry slices or a light sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the glaze complement the rolls beautifully, giving both color and an extra sensory pop that’s inviting and festive.
Side Dishes
Serve these rolls with a side of creamy yogurt or a small bowl of fresh fruit salad. The refreshing fruit balances the rolls’ sweetness, making it an indulgent yet well-rounded breakfast or brunch option.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch presentation, arrange the rolls on a wooden board or pastel-colored plate and add edible flowers or mint leaves around them. You can also layer them in a picnic basket with a gingham cloth for a cozy outdoor feel. These little touches make your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe feel extra special and shareable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them to maintain freshness, but bring them to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to enjoy their soft texture and rich flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe later, simply wrap the unbaked rolled dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze before the second rise. You can also freeze fully baked rolls in an airtight container for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated 300-degree Fahrenheit oven covered with foil for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the rolls tough or soggy. Drizzle extra glaze after warming, if desired, for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain them before mixing with the filling ingredients to avoid excess moisture that could make the dough soggy.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe breaks down each step clearly, and while yeast dough might seem intimidating at first, the process is straightforward with a little patience and care.
Can I make the rolls vegan?
To adapt this recipe for a vegan diet, substitute milk with a plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and swap the egg for a flax or chia egg. Use vegan cream cheese for the glaze. These adjustments will maintain the spirit of the rolls while keeping them plant-based.
How long do these rolls take to rise?
The initial rise takes about one hour until the dough doubles in size, and the second rise after shaping is about 30 minutes. Both rises are crucial for developing the fluffy, tender texture characteristic of cinnamon rolls.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
While strawberries are the star here, other finely chopped fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even chopped apples can work beautifully. Just make sure to adjust the cornstarch to keep the filling thick enough.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you feel inspired to bake these delicious strawberry cinnamon rolls and share them with your loved ones. This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe combines seasonal freshness, warm spice, and creamy indulgence in every bite, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Baking these rolls fills your home with a wonderful aroma that’s sure to bring smiles. So roll up your sleeves, give it a try, and enjoy every scrumptious moment!
Print
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 9–12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, featuring a soft, fluffy dough filled with a sweet and spiced fresh strawberry mixture, topped with a creamy vanilla cream cheese glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet dessert, these rolls combine classic cinnamon roll flavors with the refreshing taste of fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, which indicates the yeast is active and ready for baking.
- Prepare Dough: Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix and knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Then place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Make Filling: While the dough is rising, mix the diced fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out onto a floured surface into a 10×15-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then distribute the strawberry filling mixture on top.
- Form Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log shape. Slice the log into 9–12 individual rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Glaze: While the rolls are baking, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls once they come out of the oven. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained if fresh strawberries are unavailable.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, add a drizzle of strawberry jam along with the filling before rolling the dough.
