The sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the kitchen, signaling a special morning ahead. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Filling—a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. With a simple preparation method and a luscious filling that combines fruity strawberries and rich cream cheese, these rolls make for a heavenly breakfast or a gorgeous addition to any brunch table. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, ensuring that even those of us with busy schedules can indulge. As the rolls bake, your home will be filled with an irresistible scent that will have everyone congregating in the kitchen—who can resist a warm, gooey roll? Ready to roll up your sleeves and create a treat that dazzles? Let’s dive in!
Why are these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls unforgettable?
Irresistible combination: The blend of warm cinnamon and fresh strawberries creates a flavor explosion that’s both fruity and comforting.
Creamy filling: A luscious cream cheese filling adds richness, making each bite an indulgence.
Easy to make: With a simple dough and easy assembly, even novice bakers can impress at breakfast.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries, or add nuts for extra crunch! For other delightful baked goods, check out my Cinnamon Roll Cookies and Salted Maple Cinnamon recipes.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings, these rolls are sure to bring smiles and compliments from family and friends.
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; a gluten-free flour blend works just as well!
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to both the dough and filling; brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
• Active Dry Yeast – The magic leavening agent that helps your dough rise; fresh yeast can also be used.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutions needed.
• Warm Milk – Activates the yeast; almond milk can be a lovely alternative.
• Butter (Melted) – Contributes a tender texture; consider vegetable or coconut oil for a different twist.
• Egg – Adds richness and moisture; a flax egg is a great vegan substitute.
For the Filling
• Cream Cheese (Softened) – A creamy component that brings richness; mascarpone can switch up the flavor.
• Granulated Sugar (for Filling) – Sweetens your filling; brown sugar adds an interesting depth.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the filling’s flavor; essential with no good substitutes.
• Fresh Strawberries (Diced) – Provides fruity sweetness; feel free to replace them with raspberries or blueberries.
• Cornstarch – Prevents sogginess in the rolls; keep it as is for best results.
• Brown Sugar – Deepens sweetness in the filling; regular granulated sugar is an option if needed.
• Cinnamon – Offers that warm spice flavor; no other spices can really compare to this classic.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness to the glaze; coconut sugar can be finely blended as an alternative.
• Milk (for Glaze) – Helps achieve drizzling consistency; almond milk is also a fabulous choice.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This will activate your yeast for these delicious strawberry cinnamon rolls.
Step 2: Make Dough
Once the yeast is frothy, mix in 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add 3-4 cups of all-purpose flour, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size. This is crucial for achieving those fluffy strawberry cinnamon rolls, so be patient and let the dough work its magic.
Step 4: Prepare Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens—about 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool before mixing with 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 5: Roll and Fill
After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface (about 12×18 inches). Spread the cool strawberry filling evenly over the surface, then roll the dough tightly from one long side. Cut the rolled dough into 12 even pieces and place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy. This second rise helps create a light and airy texture, perfect for your strawberry cinnamon rolls. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while they are rising.
Step 7: Bake
Once the rolls have completed their second rise, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re lightly golden and fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 8: Glaze
Allow the strawberry cinnamon rolls to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. In the meantime, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls for that final sweet touch, adding a delightful finish to your homemade creation.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance: simply follow the first three steps, then cover and refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Additionally, the strawberry filling can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes (it may take a bit more time if chilled). Finally, bake as directed, and enjoy warm, gooey, freshly made strawberry cinnamon rolls—with minimal effort and maximum delight!
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these strawberry cinnamon rolls, turning them into your very own masterpiece!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and use vegan cream cheese for a delightful dairy-free version that still stays creamy and delicious.
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Fruit Swap: Try using blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different fruity zing. Each choice brings a fresh twist!
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for a crunchy texture that’s simply divine. The nutty flavor complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Glaze Flavor Burst: Experiment with flavored glazes, swapping regular milk for lemon juice or almond extract for a more unique finish that’s zesty.
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Cinnamon Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for an exciting twist that warms the palate.
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Less Sugar: If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, replace some granulated sugar with applesauce in the filling for natural sweetness without the guilt.
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Overnight Rolls: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge for a quick morning treat—just roll and bake when you’re ready!
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Fruity Glaze: Mix in a bit of strawberry puree into your glaze for a hint of fruity sweetness that ties back to the delicious filling.
Now that you’re armed with these fun variations, your breakfast plans just got a whole lot more exciting! And for even more sweet treats, don’t miss my Cinnamon Roll Cookies and the delightful Salted Maple Cinnamon recipes!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the strawberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the fridge; they will keep well for up to 5 days.
Freezer: To enjoy them later, freeze the cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm the rolls gently in the microwave or oven until heated through for the best gooey texture, making them just as delightful as when they were fresh!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
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Perfect Dough Rise: Ensure your dough is in a warm environment for rising. A cold kitchen can hinder yeast activation, resulting in dense rolls.
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Softened Cheese: Always use softened cream cheese for the filling to ensure it blends smoothly. If it’s too cold or melted, the texture won’t be as creamy.
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Sogginess Prevention: Briefly cook your diced strawberries with cornstarch to thicken before adding them to the filling. This step avoids excess moisture in your strawberry cinnamon rolls.
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Measure Flour Properly: Spoon and level your flour when measuring. Too much flour can lead to chewy rolls, while too little may make them flat.
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Warm is Best: Serve these strawberry cinnamon rolls warm. The gooey texture and flavors shine through when enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
What to Serve with Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
The aroma of these delightful rolls creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch gathering.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can add a refreshing contrast to the warm, sweet rolls, enhancing your meal’s vibrancy. Think juicy berries, zesty citrus, and crisp apples—each bite will be a burst of flavor.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of a perfect cup of coffee or espresso harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberry cinnamon rolls, making mornings truly indulgent. A rich latte can elevate this combination even further!
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Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy scrambled eggs create a savory balance against the sweet rolls, offering a well-rounded brunch experience. Their creamy texture complements the rolls wonderfully, ensuring no bite is ever boring.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layering creamy yogurt with granola and fresh berries creates a delicious contrast in texture and tanginess, enhancing the overall breakfast spread while providing a wholesome option.
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Maple Bacon: Savory, crispy bacon drizzled with a hint of maple syrup not only adds a salty kick but also enhances the sweetness of your rolls, resulting in a delightful flavor explosion with every bite.
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Pineapple Mimosa: A fruity twist on the classic mimosa pairs perfectly with strawberry cinnamon rolls, inviting a sparkle of celebration to your meal. The vibrant flavors will dance on your palate while you indulge.
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Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: For a decadent dessert twist, serve the rolls with a dollop of chocolate hazelnut spread for drizzling—rich hazelnut and cocoa amplify the sweetness, making each bite even more luxurious.
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Cinnamon Coffee Cake: For those who love comfort at brunch, a slice of moist cinnamon coffee cake resonates with the flavors of the rolls while providing a delightful textural contrast.
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Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: Turn your strawberry rolls into dessert by serving with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast between warm and cold creates a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing fresh strawberries?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh strawberries for your rolls, look for berries that are bright red, firm, and plump. Avoid those with dark spots or significant bruising. Opt for strawberries that have a pleasant, sweet aroma as well!
How should I store leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls?
To keep your strawberry cinnamon rolls delicious, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer longer storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, just make sure they’re tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze strawberry cinnamon rolls?
Very! To freeze, first allow the rolls to cool completely. Then, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Next, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through!
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough seems stubborn and refuses to rise, it’s often due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date. If you used water or milk that was too hot, it can kill the yeast. The temperature should ideally be warm, not hot—between 100°F to 110°F (37°C to 43°C) is perfect. Lastly, if the kitchen is too cold, try finding a warmer spot or placing the dough in the oven with just the light on to create warmth.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you are baking for someone with allergies, this recipe does contain gluten, dairy, and eggs. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. You can replace dairy milk with almond or oat milk and use a flax egg as a substitute for the regular egg to make it vegan-friendly. Always check specific brands for potential allergens.
How long should I let the dough rise?
The first rise typically takes about 45 minutes or until the dough has doubled in size, while the second rise should be around 30 to 45 minutes. This waiting period is crucial for achieving those soft and fluffy strawberry cinnamon rolls! Patience is key—don’t rush the rising process.
Decadent Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls to Sweeten Your Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Once the yeast is frothy, mix in 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add 3-4 cups of all-purpose flour, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens—about 5 minutes.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface (about 12x18 inches). Spread the cool strawberry filling evenly over the surface.
- Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while they are rising.
- Once the rolls have completed their second rise, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the strawberry cinnamon rolls to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. In the meantime, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk to create a smooth glaze.
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