Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe first whiff of fresh-baked Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls is like a warm hug on a chilly morning. As I pull them from the oven, the sugary scent of strawberries melded with cinnamon fills the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist. These rolls, made with fluffy brioche dough, offer a delightful indulgence perfect for cozy weekends or surprise gatherings. Not only are they incredibly satisfying to whip up, but they’re also a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed fresh or with frozen strawberries when the season isn’t right. With a tangy cream cheese glaze drizzling over the top, it’s comfort food that can brighten anyone’s day. Can you imagine sharing these delightful rolls with friends or savoring them with your morning coffee? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together! Why Are Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Irresistible? Heavenly aroma: The moment these rolls bake, your kitchen fills with a warm and inviting fragrance that makes it impossible to resist. Fluffy texture: Made with rich brioche dough, each bite melts in your mouth, ensuring a comforting experience that rivals your favorite bakery. Fresh or frozen: This recipe is versatile—use fresh strawberries for that burst of flavor, or opt for frozen ones when it’s not strawberry season. Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s for brunch with friends or a cozy family breakfast, these rolls are guaranteed to impress everyone. Quick prep: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you can whip these up in no time—ideal for last-minute gatherings or a special treat just for you! Pair these delightful rolls with a warm cup of coffee for the ultimate experience, similar to our delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Dump cake, or enjoy them alongside our delightful Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch for even more strawberry goodness! Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients • Perfectly suited for homemade bliss! For the Dough Warm Milk – Provides moisture and activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm, not hot. Instant Dry Yeast – This leavening agent helps the rolls rise beautifully; can be added directly to dry ingredients. All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure for fluffy rolls; measure by weight for accuracy. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference. Salt – Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s structure. Large Egg – Adds richness and helps bind the dough; best to use at room temperature. Unsalted Butter – Imparts richness; it should be soft, not melted, to mix well. For the Strawberry Filling Fresh/Frozen Strawberries – Provides a fruity filling; fresh is ideal for flavor, but frozen works too if cooked longer. Granulated Sugar (for filling) – Sweetens the filling beautifully. Juice of Half a Lemon – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness of the filling. For the Cream Cheese Glaze Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth and tangy glaze; soften before mixing for ease. Unsalted Butter (for glaze) – Contributes to a creamy texture; ensure it’s softened. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and alters its thickness; adjust for desired sweetness. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor to the glaze. Strawberry Puree (cold from filling) – Enhances the glaze’s flavor and color, ensuring a rich strawberry experience. Enjoy every moment as you create these delightful Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls—a comforting indulgence that makes your kitchen a warm and inviting haven! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Filling In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh or frozen strawberries, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and the juice of half a lemon. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Once thickened, blend it until smooth, then allow it to cool completely before using. Step 2: Make Brioche Dough In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup sugar, salt, and 2 teaspoons of instant dry yeast. Pour in 1 cup of warm milk, add ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, and crack in 1 large egg. Using the dough hook, knead the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean cloth and let rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size. Step 3: Roll Out Dough Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 40 x 30 cm (16 x 12 inches). Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces. Step 4: Second Rise Place the sliced rolls into a greased baking dish, arranging them closely together to promote a soft texture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for 30-60 minutes until they’ve puffed up nicely. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to have it ready for baking. Step 5: Bake Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them and check for a light golden hue—this indicates they’re perfectly baked. After baking, allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes in the dish before applying the glaze. Step 6: Prepare Glaze In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 oz of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a few tablespoons of the cooled strawberry puree. Mix until the glaze reaches your desired consistency, adjusting with more sugar or strawberry puree as needed. Step 7: Glaze Rolls Once the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese glaze over the top. Allow some of the glaze to drip down the sides for an inviting presentation. Serve the rolls warm and watch them disappear as everyone indulges in the delightful flavors! Make Ahead Options These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by shaping them and placing them in a greased baking dish, then covering and refrigerating them overnight. This method allows the rolls to rise gradually, ensuring they maintain their fluffy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. For extra convenience, the strawberry filling can be made up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Trust me, with these make-ahead options, your busy mornings are about to get a lot sweeter! Customizing Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Feel free to embrace your creativity and modify this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Frozen Strawberries: Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available; just remember to cook them longer to evaporate excess moisture. Gluten-Free Option: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for added structure. Cinnamon Spice: Add a touch of ground cinnamon to the dough or filling for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile immensely. Extra Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the glaze for a fresh, bright flavor that will really pop. Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling for an unexpected crunch that beautifully contrasts with the soft brioche. Cream Cheese Variation: Try adding a hint of lemon zest to the cream cheese glaze for a refreshing citrus kick that pairs perfectly with strawberries. Vegan Version: Replace the dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives—use almond milk, coconut oil, and flax eggs for a delightful vegan treat. Fragrance Boost: Include a dash of nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon to create a warm, inviting spice blend that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. By experimenting with these variations, you can create a unique batch of Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls tailored to your preferences. Check out our delectable Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake for another delightful way to enjoy strawberries! Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Yeast Check: Ensure your instant dry yeast is fresh and active. A simple test: sprinkle on warm water with a bit of sugar; it should foam within 10 minutes. Temperature Matters: Use room temperature ingredients for your brioche dough. This helps achieve a smooth texture and allows for better incorporation. Knead with Care: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic—about 5-7 minutes. Rushing this step can lead to denser, less fluffy strawberry cinnamon rolls. Slice Smart: For clean cuts of the dough log, use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife. This prevents squishing the rolls and keeps their shape intact. Cool the Filling: Let your strawberry filling cool before spreading it on the dough; this avoids soggy rolls and maintains texture. Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow adequate time for both rises—this is essential for achieving fluffy, light rolls. Skipping this can lead to a disappointing outcome. How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Room Temperature: Enjoy glazed rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days, keeping them covered to maintain freshness. Fridge: Unglazed strawberry cinnamon rolls can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days when wrapped tightly in plastic or in an airtight container. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked or baked and unglazed rolls for up to 3 months. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. What to Serve with Ultimate Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Indulging in these sweet rolls opens up a world of pairing options that will enhance your breakfast experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of fresh flavors balances the sweetness of the rolls, making for a vibrant and refreshing side dish. Incorporating melons, berries, and citrus adds brightness to your table. Crispy Bacon: The savory, smokiness of bacon contrasts perfectly with the sweet, fluffy rolls, creating a delightful sweet-and-salty combination that excites the palate. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy and slightly tangy, vanilla yogurt complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls wonderfully, adding a refreshing touch with each bite. Hot Coffee or Espresso: The deep, rich flavors of a freshly brewed cup pair flawlessly with these rolls, enhancing the overall breakfast experience with warmth and comfort. Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of herbal tea offers a soothing pairing that balances the sweetness, making your brunch feel more refined and calming. Maple Syrup Drizzle: For a touch of extra sweetness, a light drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the flavor profile and gives your rolls a decadent twist. Cream Cheese Frosting: If you love that tangy profile, serve extra frosting alongside for those who want an indulgent, creamy dip with every bite! Lemonade or Citrus Spritzer: A refreshing beverage with zingy citrus notes cuts through the sweetness and provides a revitalizing option to wash down the rolls. Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs What kind of strawberries should I use for the filling? You can use either fresh or frozen strawberries for the filling. Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, but if they’re out of season, frozen strawberries work just fine. Just remember to cook the frozen strawberries a bit longer to evaporate the excess moisture. How should I store leftover Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls? Store the glazed rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring they are covered to keep them fresh. If you have unglazed rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Can I freeze Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls? Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked or baked and unglazed strawberry cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and make sure to label the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake or reheat as desired. My rolls didn’t rise properly; what could have gone wrong? The most common reasons could be inactive yeast or improper rising conditions. Make sure your yeast is fresh and has not expired. Additionally, ensure you’re providing a warm environment for the dough to rise; it should feel warm but not hot to the touch. If the dough doesn’t double in size, it may need more time or a slightly warmer spot. Are these rolls pet-friendly? While strawberry cinnamon rolls are delightful for humans, they should not be shared with pets. The rich ingredients, such as sugar and butter, could upset their stomachs. Always keep these treats for yourself and your human friends! Can I make the dough ahead of time? Certainly! You can prepare the dough in advance. After mixing, let it rise, then cover it and refrigerate overnight. Before you bake, let it come to room temperature and give it a second rise for about 30-60 minutes. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked rolls even on busy mornings! Heavenly Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Delight in these irresistible Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, infused with cinnamon and topped with a creamy glaze. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsRising Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 rollsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients1 cup Warm Milk Ensure it’s warm, not hot.2 teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast Can be added directly to dry ingredients.4 cups All-Purpose Flour Measure by weight for accuracy.⅓ cup Granulated Sugar Adjust based on taste preference.1 teaspoon Salt Balances flavors.1 large Egg Best at room temperature.½ cup Unsalted Butter Should be soft, not melted.Strawberry Filling Ingredients2 cups Fresh/Frozen Strawberries Fresh is ideal, frozen works too.¼ cup Granulated Sugar For filling.1 tablespoon Juice of Half a Lemon Adds acidity.Cream Cheese Glaze Ingredients4 oz Cream Cheese Soften before mixing.¼ cup Unsalted Butter Ensure it’s softened.2 cups Powdered Sugar Adjust for desired sweetness.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds depth of flavor.¼ cup Strawberry Puree Cold from filling. Equipment Mixing BowlStand Mixermedium saucepanRolling PinBaking Dish Method Prepare Strawberry FillingIn a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, ¼ cup sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Blend until smooth and cool before using.Make Brioche DoughIn a stand mixer bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Knead with dough hook for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise for about 2 hours until doubled.Roll Out DoughPunch down the risen dough. Roll out on a floured surface to a rectangle. Spread cooled strawberry filling, leaving a border. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 pieces.Second RisePlace rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30-60 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.BakeBake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool in dish for 10 minutes before glazing.Prepare GlazeBeat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and strawberry puree. Mix to desired consistency.Glaze RollsSpread glaze over cooled rolls and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, ensure yeast is fresh and allow ample rising time for fluffy rolls. Store glazed rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
