Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls offer the perfect combination of sweet, comforting flavors that make any day extra special. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a rich strawberry jam that blends harmoniously with the warm, spicy sweetness of cinnamon. The result is a delicious twist on the classic cinnamon roll that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Topped with a decadent glaze and fresh strawberries, these rolls are a visual treat as well as a flavorful one. The glaze adds a silky sweetness that perfectly complements the fruity filling and the cinnamon-spiced dough. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy holiday morning, a weekend brunch, or as an indulgent dessert, Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls will elevate any occasion.

Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their delightful combination of flavors, soft texture, and beautiful presentation make them a must-try treat for any special moment. Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or just a sweet indulgence, these rolls will bring joy to everyone who takes a bite!

Perfect for:

A sweet breakfast or brunch treat
A special dessert for holidays or celebrations
Gifting homemade treats to loved ones
Anytime you want a delicious, fruity twist on a classic cinnamon roll

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls will become a favorite:

Sweet and Tangy: The combination of strawberry jam and cinnamon filling gives a unique flavor balance.
Fluffy and Soft: The dough is light, tender, and pillowy, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Fresh and Fruity: Fresh strawberries on top bring a burst of flavor that complements the cinnamon filling.
Simple and Homemade: These rolls are easy to make from scratch, offering the comfort of homemade baking without the hassle.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12 rolls
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates, fat, vitamin C from fresh strawberries.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Cinnamon Filling:

1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk or cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries for topping

Ingredient Highlights

Strawberry Jam: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Cinnamon and Brown Sugar: The classic duo that adds warmth and depth to the filling.
Butter: Ensures a soft, fluffy dough and rich filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy and activated.
Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough begins to form.
Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed.
Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Strawberry Cinnamon Filling:

Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the strawberry jam, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

Assemble the Rolls:

Roll Out the Dough:
After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12×9 inches.
Spread the Filling:
Evenly spread the strawberry cinnamon filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll and Cut:
Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the roll into 12 even pieces.

Shape the Rolls:

Place the Rolls in the Pan:
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion.
Second Rise:
Cover the dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they’ve puffed up.

Bake the Rolls:

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the Rolls:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Glaze:

Make the Glaze:
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable.

Finish the Rolls:

Glaze the Rolls:
Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and top with fresh sliced strawberries.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the Rolls:
Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm.

How to Serve

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for:

Valentine’s Day or Holidays: A sweet and festive treat for special occasions.
Brunch: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast.
Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent end to a meal.
Gifting: Wrap them in a decorative box for a thoughtful, homemade gift.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries that are ripe and sweet. If you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your dough.
Add Strawberry Jam: To intensify the strawberry flavor, spread a thin layer of strawberry jam or preserves over the dough before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Combine Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Enhance the spice profile by mixing a bit of nutmeg with your cinnamon for a deeper, warm flavor that pairs well with strawberries.
Use Heavy Cream for the Filling: Drizzling a small amount of heavy cream over the rolled-up dough before baking can make the rolls extra rich and tender.
Roll Tightly: Be sure to roll the dough tightly, but not so tight that the filling spills out. A tighter roll ensures your rolls hold their shape during baking.
Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. This helps make it easier to roll out.
Add a Splash of Vanilla: A teaspoon of vanilla extract in your icing or filling can enhance the overall flavor and pair nicely with the strawberries.
Make a Strawberry Glaze: For the icing, blend powdered sugar with pureed strawberries for a tangy, fruity glaze that adds extra strawberry flavor on top.
Consider Lemon Zest: Adding lemon zest to your dough or icing balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls with a fresh citrusy note.
Serve Warm: Cinnamon rolls are best served warm. If you’re preparing them ahead of time, consider reheating them before serving for a soft, gooey experience.

Recipe Variations

Nutella and Strawberry Filling: Add Nutella to the strawberry jam for a chocolatey twist.
Cinnamon Sugar: Add extra cinnamon sugar inside the roll for more cinnamon flavor.
Lemon Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a tangy lemon glaze for a citrusy touch.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise. After shaping, freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 1 month. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as instructed.

Special Equipment

Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
Piping Bag or Small Spoon: For drizzling the glaze evenly over the rolls.

FAQ Section

Can I make these rolls the night before?
Yes, prepare the rolls up until the second rise and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them rise for 30 minutes before baking.
Can I use a different jam?
Absolutely! You can use any fruit jam, such as raspberry, blueberry, or apricot, for a different flavor.
How do I know when the rolls are done?
The rolls should be golden brown on top, and you can check the internal temperature—it should reach around 190°F (88°C).
Can I skip the glaze?
The glaze adds extra sweetness, but you can definitely skip it or just dust the rolls with powdered sugar.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and indulgent treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the sweet, fruity essence of strawberries. The soft, fluffy dough is filled with a mouthwatering mixture of cinnamon and strawberry, creating a beautiful balance of warmth and sweetness in every bite. Topped with a luscious glaze and fresh strawberry slices, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a special dessert for any occasion.

The Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls begin with a simple, easy-to-make dough that rises to create the perfect texture — soft, pillowy, and just slightly chewy. The strawberry and cinnamon filling is spread generously across the dough before it’s rolled up and baked to golden perfection. Once out of the oven, a sweet glaze is drizzled over the top, adding an extra layer of sweetness. Finally, fresh strawberry slices are added to give the rolls a burst of freshness and a beautiful, festive touch.

Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, brunch with friends, or simply as a treat for yourself, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of fruity, spiced, and sweet, making them a memorable dessert or breakfast that will bring joy to anyone lucky enough to enjoy them.