There’s a little bit of magic in every swirl of dough in these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, pillowy layers of homemade dough cradle a sweet cinnamon swirl that’s dotted with bright bursts of fresh strawberries, creating a harmony of flavors that feels like a cozy hug for your taste buds. Each roll bakes up golden and tender, releasing gentle wafts of vanilla and butter that promise a comforting breakfast or a decadent dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who simply loves to fill your kitchen with the scent of warm pastries, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite.
These rolls strike the perfect balance between an intermediate challenge and a rewarding treat. With about 30 minutes of active prep, another 30 minutes of baking, and a total rest time of 1 hour 30 minutes, you’ll end up with a dozen gorgeous rolls that clock in at roughly 300 calories each. Pair them with your morning coffee, serve them at a special brunch, or indulge in one straight from the oven—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these sweet swirls. The addition of fresh strawberries brings a juicy brightness that transforms a classic cinnamon roll into a springtime delight, making any breakfast table feel instantly warmer and more inviting.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN STRAWBERRY CINNAMON ROLLS
Before we dive into kneading and rolling, let’s take a moment to appreciate the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays its part in building the structure, sweetness, and flavor of these rolls, so having them measured and ready will make your baking journey smooth and joyful.
- All-purpose flour
Provides the structure and base for the dough, giving it enough strength to rise while remaining soft and tender once baked.
- Granulated sugar
Adds sweetness to the dough itself and helps feed the yeast for a lively, airy rise.
- Instant yeast
The leavening agent that transforms our dough into fluffy rolls, creating those irresistible air pockets.
- Salt
Balances sweetness, enhances flavor depth, and regulates yeast activity for even fermentation.
- Warm milk
Activates the yeast without killing it, while contributing to a tender crumb and subtle dairy richness.
- Unsalted butter (melted)
Enriches the dough, keeping it moist and imparting a buttery flavor that complements the strawberries.
- Unsalted butter (softened for filling)
Creates a creamy layer between the dough and the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring an even, spreadable filling.
- Egg
Adds richness, color, and structure to the dough, helping it hold its shape as it rises.
- Vanilla extract
Infuses a warm, aromatic sweetness that ties the strawberry and cinnamon flavors together.
- Fresh strawberries
Bring juicy bursts of natural sweetness and a bright, fruity contrast to the warm cinnamon swirl.
- Brown sugar
Adds deeper caramel notes in the filling, pairing perfectly with cinnamon and strawberries.
- Ground cinnamon
The signature spice for that classic swirl, offering warmth and fragrant complexity.
- Powdered sugar
Forms the base of a smooth, glossy glaze that finishes these rolls with extra sweetness.
- Milk (for glaze)
Thins the powdered sugar so the glaze drizzles beautifully over the warm rolls.
- Vanilla extract (for glaze)
Enhances the sweetness and adds a gentle aromatic finish to the icing.
HOW TO MAKE STRAWBERRY CINNAMON ROLLS
Baking these rolls is a delightful process that combines gentle kneading, thoughtful rising, and precise rolling. With the ingredients prepped, each step brings you closer to that first glorious bite of warm, strawberry-studded pastry.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Use a whisk or spatula to mix well, ensuring the yeast and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
2. Add the warm milk, melted unsalted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for the same amount of time.
4. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once risen, gently punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 14×9 inches.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Spread the softened unsalted butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.
7. Scatter the chopped fresh strawberries evenly across the cinnamon-sugar layer, pressing the fruit lightly into the butter.
8. Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces, taking care to keep each swirl intact.
9. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, until puffy.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers are cooked through.
11. While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk for your desired consistency.
12. Allow the rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze generously over each warm roll. Serve immediately and savor every bite.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR STRAWBERRY CINNAMON ROLLS
Serving these strawberry cinnamon rolls is just as fun as baking them. Whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a lazy weekend brunch, or simply treating yourself, the presentation and pairing can elevate the experience from delightful to unforgettable.
- Serve warm with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness and enhance the comforting flavors.
- Top each roll with a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh strawberry slices for an elegant brunch or dessert presentation.
- Sprinkle a bit of finely grated lemon zest over the glazed rolls to add a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Accompany the rolls with a small side of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast and a touch of tang.
HOW TO STORE STRAWBERRY CINNAMON ROLLS
Keeping your strawberry cinnamon rolls fresh ensures you can enjoy them for days (or freeze some for weeks) without losing that signature softness and flavor. Proper storage will help preserve the moisture of the dough and the brightness of the fruit, so you can revisit this sweet treat any time.
- Room Temperature: Place cooled rolls in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. They’ll stay soft and fresh for up to 2 days on the countertop.
- Refrigeration: Store rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature or gently reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap individual rolls or the entire batch tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Reheating Tips: For the freshest taste, reheat slices in a microwave-safe dish with a damp paper towel over the top for 10–15 seconds, or in a preheated 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Drizzle extra glaze if desired.
CONCLUSION
Baking strawberry cinnamon rolls is more than just following a recipe—it’s about savoring each step, from kneading the yeast-sweetened dough to the moment that warm glaze oozes over a fluffy swirl. These rolls strike a perfect balance between sweet strawberries and classic cinnamon, creating a breakfast or dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent. With an intermediate difficulty level, about 30 minutes of hands-on prep time, 30 minutes of baking, and 1 hour 30 minutes of total resting time, you’ll create a dozen gorgeous pastries that clock in at approximately 300 calories apiece. Feel free to prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge for an easy morning bake, or swap fresh strawberries for your favorite jam if supplies are scarce. This recipe is a lovely way to brighten any breakfast table, birthday brunch, or cozy weekend gathering with friends and family. You can print this article and save it for later, and don’t forget—you’ll find a handy FAQ below to answer any extra questions.
Your feedback means the world to me, so please drop a comment if you try this recipe or need troubleshooting tips. Have a question about substituting ingredients, adjusting baking times, or adding your own flavor twists? Let me know! I’m always excited to hear how these rolls turn out for you, and I’m here to help with any baking hiccups along the way. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the sweet, strawberry-kissed aroma of these unforgettable cinnamon rolls!
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Description
Experience the delightful combination of sweet strawberries and fragrant cinnamon in these soft, pillowy rolls. Perfect for a cozy morning treat!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
-
Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough begins to form.
-
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
-
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm location for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
-
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to form a rectangle approximately 14x9 inches.
-
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly.
-
Add the chopped strawberries evenly over the sugar mixture.
-
Starting from the longer edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
-
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once risen, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
-
While the rolls are baking, make the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
-
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over the top. Serve warm.
Note
- Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Feel free to add some lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy kick.
- These rolls can be prepared the night before; just let them rise overnight in the refrigerator.
- You can swap fresh strawberries with jam or preserves if fresh fruit isn't available.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat.
