There’s nothing quite like the warm, sweet scent of cinnamon rolls wafting through the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen like bees to honey. As I kneaded the dough for these delightful Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, the anticipation bubbled up inside me. This isn’t just any roll; it’s a fluffy brioche dream wrapped around vibrant strawberries and finished with a creamy glaze that dances on your tastebuds.
Perfect for celebrating a lazy Sunday morning or impressing guests at brunch, these rolls blend comfort with a seasonal twist that’s hard to resist. Imagine enjoying a soft, melt-in-your-mouth pastry, brightened by the luscious fruit filling and a touch of tangy cream cheese glaze—what’s not to love? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises to elevate your baking game and bring joy to the breakfast table. Let’s dive into creating these irresistible Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls together!
Why are Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls so beloved?
Warm, Comforting Aroma: The moment these rolls begin to bake, your kitchen transforms into a cozy haven with the sweet scent of strawberries and cinnamon.
Unique Twist: Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, the bright, fruity filling adds a refreshing dimension, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Easy Method: This recipe simplifies the process, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous brunch gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from kids to adults will delight in these treats, ensuring they disappear in no time!
Versatile Treat: Serve them warm for breakfast or as a sweet snack with coffee, making them perfect for any occasion.
Embrace your love for homemade delights and give these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls a try today!
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Milk – Provides moisture and helps activate the yeast; ensure it’s lukewarm, so you don’t kill the yeast.
• Instant Dry Yeast – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffy rolls; substitute with active dry yeast by rehydrating in warm milk.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the dough; measure by weight for best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens both the dough and filling; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
• Salt – Enhances flavor while strengthening the gluten structure.
• Large Egg – Adds richness and color; remember to use one at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes a rich, tender texture; make sure it’s softened but not melted.
For the Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Strawberries – The star of our Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls; fresh gives vibrant flavor, while frozen needs longer cooking time.
• Lemon Juice – Balances the sweetness with a hint of acidity for a perfect filling.
For the Glaze
• Cream Cheese – Essential for a creamy glaze; ensure it’s properly softened for ease of mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives a smooth finish without graininess.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the glaze’s flavor.
• Cold Strawberry Puree – Enhances the glaze, using flavors from your filling to create a delicious finish.
These ingredients come together to create the best Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls that will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the process of baking and the delightful results!
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
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Prepare Strawberry Filling: In a saucepan, combine fresh or frozen strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Cook on medium heat until thickened, then blend it into a smooth mixture and allow to cool.
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Make Brioche Dough: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant dry yeast. Add the warm milk, softened butter, and room temperature egg. Mix until combined and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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First Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
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Roll Out Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, and spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the surface.
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Shape Rolls: Roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut it into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space for them to rise. Let rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, until puffy.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
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Prepare Glaze: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cold strawberry puree until smooth and creamy.
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Glaze Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, spread the glaze over the warm rolls and serve them immediately for a delightful treat.
Optional: Drizzle extra strawberry puree over the glazed rolls for an added berry burst.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep baked Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their fluffy texture.
Fridge: If unglazed, store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container to prolong freshness, but note this may slightly change the texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before proofing and baking.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individually for a quick warm-up, enhancing their delightful flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy mornings or special occasions! You can prepare the filling and dough up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, cook the strawberry filling and cool it before refrigerating. Next, you can make the brioche dough, let it rise, then shape the rolls and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. On the day you plan to bake, simply allow the rolls to proof for about 30-45 minutes before preheating your oven. They’ll bake up just as heavenly and soft, ensuring a warm, sweet breakfast awaits you!
Tips for the Best Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
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Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal dough rise. Expired yeast can result in dense rolls, so check the expiration date!
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Knead Well: Don’t rush the kneading process; a well-kneaded dough develops gluten, giving your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls that desired fluffy texture.
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Correct Temperature: Always use warm milk—not hot! It should feel like a warm bath to the touch, as too much heat can kill the yeast.
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Filling Consistency: Easy does it! Make sure your strawberry filling is thick and cool before spreading; this prevents soggy dough and ensures perfect rolls.
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Overnight Option: You can refrigerate shaped rolls overnight. Just let them proof at room temperature before baking for fresh rolls in the morning!
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Slice Evenly: For perfectly shaped rolls, use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife to slice, ensuring clean edges without squishing the dough.
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to personalize these rolls with your unique twist and flavors!
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Berry Swap: Substitute strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity zing. Each berry gives a fresh character to your rolls.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling to add a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut oil in place of milk and butter, plus a dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze. You’ll preserve that luscious texture without dairy!
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Spice It Up: Sprinkle cinnamon or cardamom into the dough for an aromatic touch that enhances the sweet strawberry filling. A little spice can transform the rolls into a cozy treat.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glaze for an indulgent twist. This extra layer of richness will make every bite a decadent experience.
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Caramel Swirl: Add a layer of caramel sauce alongside the strawberry filling for a sweet surprise. The gooey caramel makes each roll even more irresistible.
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Zesty Kick: Mix lemon or orange zest into the dough or glaze for a bright, citrusy note that complements the strawberries wonderfully.
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Vegan Version: Substitute egg and cream cheese with flaxseed meal and dairy-free cream cheese. These vegan delights will still be as tasty and fluffy as ever!
What to Serve with Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?
Wake up to the aroma of freshly baked delights and imagine pairing these sweet rolls with complementary flavors for an unforgettable brunch experience.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of vibrant strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing, juicy contrast that brightens each bite.
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Cold Brew Coffee: The smooth, rich flavors of cold brew provide an invigorating start to the day, balancing the sweetness of the rolls perfectly.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a contrasting texture—crunchy, creamy, and fruity all in one bite!
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Maple Glazed Bacon: The salty richness of bacon coated in maple syrup offers a delightful sweet-and-savory balance, enhancing the overall breakfast experience.
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Zesty Fruit Salad: Tossing together seasonal fruits and a sprinkle of lime juice creates a light, refreshing pairing that complements the sweetness of your rolls wonderfully.
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Chai Latte: The warming spices of chai are a cozy match for the cinnamon in the rolls, enveloping you in comfort as you savor every mouthful.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Indulge your sweet tooth by serving warm rolls with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating an irresistible dessert duo.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side invites you to dive deeper into the decadent flavors, making each bite feel like a special treat.
Combine these delicious pairings for a delightful morning or afternoon snack spread that everyone will love!
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe strawberries for the filling?
Absolutely! Choose strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Look for small seeds that look plump and avoid any that have dark spots or feel mushy. Fresh, ripe strawberries will yield the best flavor for your rolls!
How should I store my leftover Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your baked Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate unglazed rolls in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain their softness.
Can I freeze Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?
For sure! To freeze unbaked Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, tightly wrap them in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, allow them to proof, and then bake as usual for fresh, warm rolls.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?
Very common! If your dough isn’t rising, check that your yeast is fresh. Make sure you’re using warm (not hot) milk and that the dough is covered to avoid drafts. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help it rise. Give it more time, too—sometimes it just needs a little extra love!
Are Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls safe for pets or those with allergies?
If you have pets, avoid sharing these rolls with them, especially due to the sugar and dairy content in the glaze. For allergies, ensure to check the ingredients, especially with regard to gluten in all-purpose flour or any substitute you might consider. Always opt for allergy-friendly ingredients if necessary to suit your dietary needs!
Irresistible Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Everyone Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Strawberry Filling: Combine strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Cook on medium heat until thickened, then blend into a smooth mixture and allow to cool.
- Make Brioche Dough: In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, salt, and instant dry yeast. Add warm milk, softened butter, and room temperature egg. Mix until combined and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Roll Out Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, and spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly.
- Shape Rolls: Roll the dough tightly into a log, cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in a greased baking dish, leaving space for them to rise. Let rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare Glaze: Mix softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cold strawberry puree until smooth.
- Glaze Rolls: Once baked, spread glaze over warm rolls and serve immediately.