As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the sweet, fruity scent of strawberries mingling with warm cinnamon filled the air, transporting me to a sun-kissed bakery. This delightful moment inspired me to create the perfect dessert that evokes nostalgia and comfort: Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Tangy Cream Cheese Glaze. These rolls are not just a treat; they’re an experience of fluffy brioche dough, enveloping warm, gooey strawberry filling that will make your taste buds dance. What’s more, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and a delightful twist on a beloved classic, ensuring a great start to any day. So, whether you’re treating yourself to a leisurely breakfast or surprising loved ones with a sweet afternoon snack, these rolls are an ideal way to elevate your homemade baking. Ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure?
Why Are These Rolls So Irresistible?
Fluffy Texture: Each bite of these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls offers a pillowy softness that melts in your mouth, thanks to the tender brioche dough.
Fruity Delight: The gooey strawberry filling brings a burst of sweetness that perfectly balances the warmth of cinnamon, making every roll a little piece of paradise.
Easy to Make: Designed for bakers of all levels, this recipe is straightforward, letting you indulge without frustration, making it a perfect escape from fast food meals.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these rolls are bound to impress your guests and fill your home with delightful aromas.
Freeze for Later: Make-ahead options allow you to enjoy these scrumptious rolls on your schedule; freeze unglazed rolls and bake them fresh when the craving strikes!
Pair these delicious rolls with a glass of Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade for a truly delightful culinary experience!
Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Milk – Provides moisture and activates yeast; use whole milk for richness.
• Instant Dry Yeast – Leavening agent for a light, airy dough; ensure freshness for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Structure for the rolls; measure by weight for accuracy.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling; adjust amount to personal preference.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; essential for balancing sweetness.
• Large Egg (Room Temperature) – Adds richness and helps with dough binding and structure.
• Unsalted Butter (Very Soft) – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough; use room temperature for better incorporation.
For the Strawberry Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Strawberries – Provides filling flavor; fresh is best, but frozen can be used without thawing.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the filling flavor, making your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls even more delightful.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
• Cream Cheese (Softened) – Basis of the glaze; use full-fat for best texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; ensures a smooth finish.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor of the glaze.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and blend until smooth. Allow the strawberry filling to cool completely while you prepare the brioche dough.
Step 2: Make the Brioche Dough
In a stand mixer bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant dry yeast. Pour in warm milk and add softened butter and egg. Using the dough hook, knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold its shape. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the chilled strawberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log from one long side to the other, ensuring the filling stays in place. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for a clean cut.
Step 4: Second Rise of the Rolls
Place the cut rolls in a greased baking dish, allowing some space between each roll to expand. Cover with a clean towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes. While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) until hot. The rolls should puff up noticeably during this time.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
After the second rise, place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top. The rolls should look puffy and slightly spring back when gently pressed. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of strawberry and cinnamon.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the rolls cool slightly, prepare the creamy glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a spoonful of cooled strawberry puree until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with a little milk if needed, ensuring it’s spreadable but not too runny.
Step 7: Finish the Rolls
Once the strawberry cinnamon rolls are just cool enough to handle, drizzle the creamy glaze over the top. Ensure each roll is generously coated to enhance the flavors. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, so serve them immediately for a delightful and indulgent treat that your family will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to roll them out and place them in a greased baking dish, then cover and refrigerate the unbaked rolls overnight. On the day you wish to serve, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly before baking. This method ensures that you can enjoy warm, fresh Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with minimal morning effort, allowing for a delightful, homemade treat that tastes just as delicious.
What to Serve with Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Indulging in warm, fluffy rolls transforms any occasion into a memorable feast, but pairing them with complementary sides takes it to the next level!
Rich Coffee: The deep flavors of freshly brewed coffee beautifully enhance the sweetness of the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, creating a warm, comforting experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley adds a bright, juicy contrast to the richness of the rolls, balancing flavors perfectly for brunch.
Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The salty, savory notes of crispy bacon or sausage create a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making each bite an enticing journey.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with fruits and granola, a yogurt parfait offers a cool, refreshing counterpart to the warm rolls, enriching your breakfast spread.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai uplift the warm, cinnamon flavors of your rolls, making it a comforting pairing for chilly mornings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream atop warm rolls provides a delightful indulgence that captivates the senses.
Sweet Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea with a splash of lemon complements the rolls, providing a sweet, citrusy contrast that brightens every bite.
Decadent Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your rolls with a rich chocolate drizzle. The depth of chocolate harmonizes beautifully with strawberry and cinnamon flavors.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
• Fresh Yeast Matters: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast ensures the dough rises beautifully, creating that signature fluffy texture.
• Knead with Care: Proper kneading is crucial. Over-kneading can make the dough tough, while under-kneading leads to poor structure; aim for a soft, elastic dough.
• Warm Environment: For the best rise, keep your dough in a warm, draft-free area (around 75-80°F). A cozy kitchen will help your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls become perfectly puffy!
• Chill the Filling: Make sure your strawberry filling is cooled before spreading on the dough. A warm filling can make the dough too soft and hard to roll.
• Glaze It Right: Drizzle your cream cheese glaze when the rolls are just warm. This helps it melt and soak into the rolls, enhancing the flavor in every bite!
• Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the rolls the night before. Shape them, store in the fridge, and let them rise before baking for fresh rolls in the morning!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep glazed rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container to maintain their fluffy texture.
Fridge: Unglazed rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly to prevent drying out and reheat in the oven before serving.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to an airtight container.
Reheating: To enjoy your baked strawberry cinnamon rolls, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and gooey, perfect for indulging at any time!
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs with these delightful twists. Let your creativity shine while baking the most comforting treat!
- Frozen Strawberries: Use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for a year-round option; they’ll work beautifully without thawing.
- Berry Blast: Try blueberries or raspberries in place of strawberries for a different flavor explosion; the tartness of berries adds a new dimension to your rolls.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil and use plant-based cream cheese in the glaze for a creamy, dairy-free version that everyone will adore.
- Cinnamon Sugar Upgrade: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on the dough before rolling for an irresistible extra layer of sweetness and spice.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch; it’s perfect for adding texture and warmth.
- Reduced Sugar: Reduce the amount of granulated sugar in both the dough and glaze for a healthier twist; the strawberry filling will still provide plenty of sweetness.
- Zesty Citrus: Increase the lemon juice in the filling to give a refreshing, zesty kick; it really brightens the fruity flavor.
- Glaze Variations: Instead of cream cheese glaze, try a simple powdered sugar glaze mixed with a hint of fresh orange juice for a summery twist that compliments the strawberries beautifully.
Don’t forget, these rolls pair wonderfully with a refreshing glass of Frozen Strawberry Lemonade or a vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad as part of your breakfast or brunch spread!
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are preferred for the filling as they provide the best flavor and texture. However, if they’re out of season, frozen strawberries work well too. Just toss them in, no need to thaw; they’ll break down nicely when cooked.
How should I store my Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?
For glazed rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have unglazed rolls, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain their fluffiness. Remember to cover them tightly to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze my Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! To freeze unglazed rolls, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and store for up to 2 months. Just thaw and let them rise before baking when you’re ready to enjoy!
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date before use. Additionally, keep your dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising. A tip I often use is to create a warm environment by placing the dough in an oven that’s turned off but with the light on.
Can this recipe be adapted for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream cheese. For those with allergies, always double-check that the chosen ingredients are safe for your dietary needs. Feel free to experiment and create variations with fruits that suit your palate!
Fluffy Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and blend until smooth. Allow the strawberry filling to cool completely while you prepare the brioche dough.
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant dry yeast. Pour in warm milk and add softened butter and egg. Using the dough hook, knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold its shape. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the chilled strawberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log from one long side to the other, ensuring the filling stays in place. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for a clean cut.
- Place the cut rolls in a greased baking dish, allowing some space between each roll to expand. Cover with a clean towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes. While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) until hot. The rolls should puff up noticeably during this time.
- After the second rise, place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top. The rolls should look puffy and slightly spring back when gently pressed.
- While the rolls cool slightly, prepare the creamy glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a spoonful of cooled strawberry puree until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with a little milk if needed, ensuring it’s spreadable but not too runny.
- Once the strawberry cinnamon rolls are just cool enough to handle, drizzle the creamy glaze over the top. Ensure each roll is generously coated to enhance the flavors. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, so serve them immediately.