Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Imagine the scent of warm cinnamon swirling through your kitchen, paired with the vibrant, juicy burst of summer strawberries — that’s exactly what you get with these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls. Each roll is fluffy and golden, with a sweet swirl of fresh strawberries tucked inside, all topped off with a creamy, dreamy glaze. Whether you’re planning a stunning brunch centerpiece, a special weekend treat, or just want to brighten a weekday morning, this recipe takes your classic cinnamon roll experience to a whole new level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls lies in easy-to-find basics that work together for a result that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. From the pillowy dough to the fresh berry filling and that luscious glaze, here’s what you’ll need and why each piece matters.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives your rolls structure and softness; make sure to measure carefully for a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to both the dough and the irresistible strawberry filling.
- Instant yeast: This little powerhouse kickstarts the rise so your rolls turn out wonderfully light and fluffy.
- Salt: Just half a teaspoon keeps the flavors balanced and highlights the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Whole milk (warmed): Creates a rich, supple dough by adding moisture and flavor; make sure it’s warm but not hot to help the yeast flourish.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness to the dough and creates a silky-smooth texture; you’ll also need some for the glaze.
- Eggs: Essential for the soft, rich dough and wonderful rise — don’t skip them!
- Fresh strawberries: The star of the show, giving each roll a bright, juicy pop and gorgeous bursts of color.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry filling just enough to keep it from being too runny as the rolls bake.
- Ground cinnamon: That classic, cozy flavor pairs perfectly with strawberries, creating a unique twist on a cinnamon roll favorite.
- Cream cheese: Soft, tangy, and creamy — it’s the key to a glaze that truly melts over warm rolls.
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves seamlessly into the glaze for sweetness and smoothness.
- Vanilla extract: Just a touch enhances both the dough and the glaze’s comforting bakery aroma.
- Milk (for glaze): Adjusts the glaze to your ideal drizzle-worthy consistency.
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing together your all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate medium bowl, whisk the warm milk with melted unsalted butter and eggs until well blended. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a soft, shaggy dough forms — it might look a bit messy at first, but that’s exactly what you want! Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rest in a cozy, draft-free spot for an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size and looks beautifully puffy.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling
While your dough rises, grab a bowl and toss together the finely chopped fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. The sugar draws out the natural juices, while the cornstarch helps keep your filling from getting soupy when it bakes. Give this mixture a gentle stir and set it aside — the flavors meld as it sits, making the strawberry-cinnamon combination absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has had its nap, punch it down and roll it out on a floured counter to roughly a 10×16-inch rectangle. You want it to be fairly even, but don’t stress perfection; homemade charm is part of the appeal! Spoon your sweet strawberry filling evenly across the dough, gently pressing it in. Starting from the long side, use steady hands to roll the dough up into a tight log. Slice into 12 rolls (a bit of dental floss works wonders here for clean cuts) and nestle them, swirl-side-up, into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 to 40 minutes, until pillowy and noticeably fuller.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slide your beautifully risen rolls in and bake for 22 to 25 minutes — you’re looking for golden tops and bubbling strawberry filling around the edges. The aroma will be nothing short of heavenly! Let the baked rolls cool for a few minutes (just enough so you don’t scorch your fingers when glazing), keeping all that steam and softness locked in.
Step 5: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
For the finishing touch, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and luxurious. Gradually add powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until there are no lumps. Add milk a spoonful at a time until your glaze is thick yet drizzleable. Rain that creamy glaze all over your warm Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls while they’re still just a touch hot for swoon-worthy results. Enjoy every sticky-fingered bite!
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
For an extra eye-catching finish, sprinkle a few tiny diced strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar over the fresh glaze. If you’re feeling festive, a handful of toasted sliced almonds or even a few fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and crunch that make these rolls perfect for a brunch spread or special occasion.
Side Dishes
A stack of Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls truly shines on its own, but if you’d like to serve them with something extra, a fruit salad or a tangy yogurt parfait makes a refreshing companion. Coffee or lightly sweetened tea pairs beautifully with the rolls’ soft texture and bright fruit notes, turning breakfast or dessert into a special celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the rolls on a cake stand for a show-stopping centerpiece, or deliver them still warm in a rustic baking dish lined with parchment. For grab-and-go occasions, place each roll in a decorative muffin liner or wrap them individually as sweet edible gifts for loved ones. However you serve them, these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are sure to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers (it’s rare in my house!), cover the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls tightly and store them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days — just bring them to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Freezing
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls can be frozen before or after baking. For unbaked rolls, assemble and freeze them unglazed in the baking dish, tightly wrapped. When ready to bake, allow to thaw and rise before popping in the oven. For baked rolls, cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for a fruity, cinnamon treat.
Reheating
To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, gently warm leftover rolls in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds per roll, or reheat a covered pan in a low oven (300°F) for about 10 minutes. This revives the soft, pillowy texture and makes the glaze deliciously melty all over again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain frozen strawberries before chopping and mixing with the sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. This keeps your filling from getting watery during baking.
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can substitute active dry yeast by dissolving it in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar and letting it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly, then proceed with the recipe. The rise time may be a little longer, but your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls will still turn out beautifully fluffy.
How do I make the filling even more “strawberry-forward”?
For an extra punch of berry flavor, add a spoonful or two of strawberry jam to the fresh berry filling. It boosts the color and sweetness, especially if your strawberries aren’t super ripe.
Can I make these rolls overnight in advance?
Definitely! After slicing and arranging the rolls in the baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bring them to room temperature and let rise for 45 to 60 minutes before baking for an effortless morning treat.
What’s the best way to cut the dough into even rolls?
Dental floss or a thin, sharp knife works wonders here! Slide unflavored dental floss under the rolled-up log, cross the strands over the top, and pull tight for clean, beautiful swirls. This method keeps the spiral intact for picture-perfect Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls — from the swirl of juicy berries to that creamy glaze melting into every bite. Whether you’ve baked a hundred batches of rolls or you’re trying them for the very first time, I can’t wait for you to sink your fork into this delicious twist on a classic. Give them a try and let the smiles (and cinnamon-scented kitchens) commence!
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Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of these homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, filled with sweet strawberry goodness and topped with a creamy glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Add wet mixture to dry ingredients and knead until a soft dough forms. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Make the Filling: Combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Roll and Fill: Roll out dough, spread filling, roll into a log, and slice into rolls. Place in a baking dish and let rise.
- Bake: Preheat oven, bake rolls until golden brown, about 22–25 minutes.
- Prepare Glaze: Beat cream cheese and butter, add sugar and vanilla, mix in milk. Drizzle over warm rolls.
Notes
- Use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable.
- Enhance strawberry flavor with a spoonful of jam in the filling.
- Best served warm but can be reheated.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
