Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you adore the warm, cozy comfort of cinnamon rolls but crave a fresh, fruity twist, this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls swirled with a buttery cinnamon sugar filling, bursting with juicy chopped strawberries in every bite, and topped off with a sweet, glossy glaze that simply melts in your mouth. This recipe is the perfect balance of classic comfort and refreshing flavor, guaranteed to brighten up any morning or afternoon treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe plays an important role in bringing those irresistible flavors and textures together. From the tender dough to the luscious strawberry filling and the irresistible glaze, each component is simple yet essential.

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, fluffy rolls with just the right chew.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the tangy strawberries.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 packet active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the dough rise beautifully.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Provides richness and moisture for tender rolls.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Melts into the dough for soft texture and buttery flavor.
• 1/4 cup water: Helps activate the yeast and bring ingredients together.
• 2 large eggs: Adds structure and extra richness to the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note to the dough and glaze.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic cinnamon roll warmth in the filling.
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped: Freshness and vibrant color burst between the cinnamon-sugar swirls.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Deep caramel notes in the luscious filling.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creamy base for the cinnamon sugar filling.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze and adds that delicate finishing touch.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Helps create a smooth, drizzle-able glaze.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze with warm sweetness.

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the dough ingredients

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. This blend sets the stage for our soft dough packed with flavor.

Step 2: Warm the milk and butter

Heat whole milk gently until warm but not boiling, then stir in the unsalted butter until melted. This warm, buttery liquid is key to activating the yeast and tenderizing the dough.

Step 3: Combine wet and dry

Pour your warm milk and butter mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring to combine. Then whisk together water, eggs, and vanilla extract in a smaller bowl and add this to the dough mixture, bringing everything together.

Step 4: Knead until smooth

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten structure that gives your rolls their lovely, pillowy texture.

Step 5: Let the dough rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is when the magic of fermentation works its wonders.

Step 6: Prepare the filling

While your dough rises, chop the fresh strawberries and stir together the brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon to make the luscious filling. This mixture will create those irresistible swirls inside each roll.

Step 7: Roll out and fill

Once risen, gently punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread your cinnamon sugar butter evenly, leaving a little border, then sprinkle the fresh chopped strawberries over the top.

Step 8: Roll and cut

Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long side into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them snugly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 9: Second rise

Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes. This second rise ensures soft, fluffy rolls with beautiful height.

Step 10: Bake to golden perfection

Bake your rolls in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops turn a golden-brown color and fill your kitchen with amazing aroma.

Step 11: Make the glaze

While the rolls bake, whip up a quick glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle-able.

Step 12: Glaze and serve

Once your rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls and prepare to enjoy pure bliss with every bite.

How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

To amp up the beauty and flavor, sprinkle a few whole fresh strawberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. A little fresh mint adds an unexpected pop of color and freshness that’s so delightful.

Side Dishes

This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of creamy coffee or freshly brewed tea. For a brunch spread, offer alongside fresh fruit salad or Greek yogurt topped with honey and granola to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these rolls warm in small individual ramekins or muffin tins lined with parchment for a grab-and-go treat. You can even drizzle the glaze in pretty patterns to make them look like a bakery masterpiece right in your own kitchen.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and fresh. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them but be aware that refrigeration can sometimes dry out baked goods, so a quick reheat is best.

Freezing

This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe freezes beautifully either before baking or after cooling. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or bake them in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until heated through and soft. A fresh drizzle of glaze after warming brings them back to their freshly-baked glory.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for their natural juiciness and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available, just be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

Is it possible to make the dough in a stand mixer?

Absolutely! Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment makes kneading even easier and ensures a smooth, elastic dough with less effort.

Can I substitute the milk for a non-dairy alternative?

Yes, whole milk can be replaced with almond, soy, oat, or any favorite plant-based milk. Just note that it might subtly change the flavor and texture but still taste delicious.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

Look for golden-brown tops and a slightly firm feel when gently pressed. They should spring back softly and smell amazing—those cues mean they’re ready to come out of the oven.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With a few adjustments like using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer, you can create a vegan-friendly version that’s just as delightful and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a true celebration of comfort food with a fruity, fresh twist that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. The warm dough, cinnamon-spiked filling, and bright strawberries come together in an irresistibly fluffy roll that’s hard not to love. I can’t wait for you to give these a try and experience just how magical homemade cinnamon rolls can be with a splash of strawberry sunshine!

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