The warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen transports me back to summer mornings filled with sunshine and laughter. Today, I’m excited to share my Soft and Gooey Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful twist on a classic breakfast treat. These rolls are not only a sweet beginning to your day but also an irresistible crowd-pleaser that will brighten your brunch gatherings. With a luscious strawberry filling and a creamy icing that balances sweetness and tang, they promise a comforting indulgence that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Plus, they’re surprisingly quick to whip up, so you can enjoy them any time the craving strikes. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with this charming summer scent and delight in the gooey goodness of rich strawberry flavors? Let’s dive in! Why are Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls so special? Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Soft and Gooey: These rolls are incredibly tender, making every bite a delightful treat that practically melts in your mouth. Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up this indulgent dish in no time! Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a brunch with friends, these rolls are sure to impress everyone with their vibrant flavor and stunning presentation. For other delicious breakfast ideas, check out my Red Velvet Strawberry or Coast Shrimp Rolls. Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients Get ready to make the softest, most gooey cinnamon rolls you’ll ever taste! For the Strawberry Filling • Frozen or Fresh Strawberries – Adds natural sweetness; use other berries for a fun twist. • Brown Sugar – Deepens flavor; light or dark brown sugar works beautifully. • Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor; always go for fresh for the best taste. • Cornstarch – Thickens filling into a jam-like consistency; arrowroot powder is a great substitute. For the Dough • Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; use salted butter if that’s what you have handy. • All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; for a chewier texture, try bread flour. • Instant Yeast – Makes dough rise effortlessly; active dry yeast can also be used. • Milk (Whole or 2%) – Keeps the dough moist; non-dairy alternatives can easily work here. • Heavy Cream – Adds tenderness to the rolls; substitute with half-and-half if necessary. • Egg – Binds and enriches the dough; leave it out for an egg-free version. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; feel free to skip for a simpler roll. For the Cream Cheese Glaze • Cream Cheese – Gives a creamy texture; mascarpone is a delicious option if you want to switch it up. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; coconut sugar offers a healthier alternative. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling Begin by cooking 2 cups of strawberries, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency. Once thickened, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, pour it into the pan, and stir for another minute. Remove from heat and let it cool. Step 2: Make Tangzhong In a small saucepan, whisk together ¼ cup of water and ¼ cup of bread flour over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture forms a thick paste resembling a roux. Turn off the heat and let the tangzhong cool completely before adding it to your dough for those soft and gooey strawberry cinnamon rolls. Step 3: Mix Dough Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of sugar, 1 packet of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of milk, 1 egg, and the cooled tangzhong to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then prepare for kneading. Step 4: Knead Dough Transfer the shaggy dough onto a floured surface and begin to knead it for about 8-10 minutes, adding ½ cup of softened unsalted butter in increments. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which will ensure your strawberry cinnamon rolls are pillowy-soft. Form a ball with the dough and place it in a lightly greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Let it rest for 30 minutes in a warm place. Step 5: Roll Dough After resting, punch down the dough to release air and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×18 inches. Spread a layer of cinnamon sugar and your cooled strawberry filling evenly across the surface. Be generous to ensure every bite is bursting with strawberry goodness. Step 6: Cut and Shape Rolls Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces, each about 1.5 inches wide. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan, ensuring they are snug but not cramped. Cover and let them rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size, creating those fluffy strawberry cinnamon rolls you crave. Step 7: Bake Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Once the rolls have risen, place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until they are golden brown and the center is cooked through. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful treat you’re about to enjoy. Step 8: Prepare Glaze While the strawberry cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of unsalted butter, and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons of strawberry jam and enough milk (about 2 tablespoons) to achieve a pourable consistency. This glaze will elevate the rolls with its creamy sweetness. Step 9: Glaze Rolls Once the strawberry cinnamon rolls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle or spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm rolls, letting it melt into every crevice for a decadent finish. Now, it’s time to share (or enjoy solo)! Storage Tips for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Room Temperature: Store leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft texture. Refrigerator: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the rolls for up to a week. Be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best results. Reheating: To enjoy your strawberry cinnamon rolls, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm them in a 325°F (162°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Make Ahead Options These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of cutting and shaping the rolls, then place them in a greased baking pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, allow the rolls to come to room temperature for about 1-2 hours, letting them rise before popping them in the oven. With this strategy, you can enjoy soft and gooey Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with minimal effort on busy mornings! Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and customize your delightful strawberry cinnamon rolls with these fun variations and substitutions! Mixed Berries: Swap half the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries. This fruity blend adds a delicious twist! Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunch. Imagine that contrasting texture enhancing the gooey goodness! Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk and dairy-free butter in place of milk and unsalted butter. You’ll still enjoy soft, flavorful rolls that everyone can savor. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a safe and scrumptious version loved by those with dietary restrictions. Spiced Sensation: Add a teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mix. The warm spices will elevate your rolls to a whole new level of comfort! Choco-Strawberry Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate over the strawberry filling before rolling up the dough. This decadent touch will have chocoholics swooning! Citrus Zest: Mix in some lemon or orange zest into the filling for a fresh, zesty lift. This bright flavor will wake up your palate! Cream Cheese Swap: Replace cream cheese with mascarpone in the glaze for a richer, creamier alternative. The changes will make every bite feel a bit more indulgent! Feel inspired to experiment? These variations will surely keep those strawberry cinnamon rolls exciting at your next brunch gathering! For more scrumptious creations, consider trying my Red Velvet Strawberry or Coast Shrimp Rolls. Enjoy every sweet moment! Expert Tips for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Proper Measurement: Always use the spoon-level method to measure flour. This prevents over-flouring and ensures your strawberry cinnamon rolls are perfectly soft. Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can dry out the rolls. They should be golden brown but still soft to the touch. Cooling Before Glazing: Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking before applying the glaze. This helps the glaze adhere without sliding off, ensuring beautiful results. Tangzhong Method Advantage: Incorporate the tangzhong technique for fluffier rolls—this simple step helps maintain moisture and enhances freshness. Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to mix in a splash of almond extract for a nutty depth or add zest from the lemon to brighten the filling. What to Serve with Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Delightful pairings will elevate your soft and gooey strawberry cinnamon rolls into a memorable meal experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a medley of seasonal fruits adds a vibrant touch to balance the sweet rolls. Whipped Cream: Fluffy and creamy, a generous dollop on each roll enhances indulgence and provides a delightful contrast in texture. Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of crispy bacon offers a delicious salty contrast that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the rolls. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or fragrant tea makes for a comforting beverage to sip alongside your sweet breakfast treat. Yogurt Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt and granola, it adds a refreshing element and a crunchy texture to enjoy with every bite. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup can enhance sweetness and create an irresistible flavor combo with the strawberry filling. Cream Cheese Frosting Side: Serve extra cream cheese frosting on the side for those who crave that extra hit of creamy sweetness with each roll. Fruit Juice Sparkler: A sparkling fruit juice adds a festive flair, complementing both the sweetness of the rolls and the joy of the occasion. Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs What type of strawberries should I use? Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries that are ripe and sweet. Look for bright red berries with no dark spots or bruises. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can opt for frozen strawberries—just ensure they’re thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling. How long can I store leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls? Very! Keep your leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you need them to last longer, pop them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just remember to reheat them gently in the microwave or oven before indulging! Can I freeze strawberry cinnamon rolls? Absolutely! To freeze your rolls, first, let them cool completely. Then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated 325°F (162°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise? Don’t worry, it happens! First, check if your yeast is fresh—quick tip: proof it by mixing it with warm water and a little sugar. If it bubbles within 10 minutes, it’s good to go! Also, ensure that the dough is kept in a warm environment; if your kitchen is too cool, try placing the bowl in a slightly heated oven or covering it with a warm towel to help it rise. Can I make these rolls egg-free? Very! If you’re looking to make these strawberry cinnamon rolls without eggs, simply substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce. To make a flaxseed egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s gel-like. This will bind your dough beautifully! How do I reheat frozen cinnamon rolls? Sure! To safely enjoy your frozen strawberry cinnamon rolls, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, for a delicious warm treat, preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C) and bake the rolls for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds until just heated through. Enjoy! Soft Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls for a Sweet Summer Morning These Soft Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls blend fresh strawberries and cinnamon for a delightful breakfast treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 40 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins Servings: 12 rollsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Strawberry Filling2 cups strawberries frozen or fresh0.5 cups brown sugar light or dark, works beautifully1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh for best taste1 tablespoon cornstarch can substitute with arrowroot powderDough0.5 cups unsalted butter softened4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour for chewier texture1 packet instant yeast or active dry yeast0.5 cups milk whole or 2%, non-dairy alternatives also work0.5 cups heavy cream can substitute with half-and-half1 large egg omit for egg-free version1 teaspoon vanilla extract optionalCream Cheese Glaze4 ounces cream cheese softened0.25 cups unsalted butter softened2 cups powdered sugar can substitute with coconut sugar for healthier option2 tablespoons strawberry jam2 tablespoons milk to achieve pourable consistency Equipment Medium SaucepanLarge mixing bowlFloured surfaceBaking PanMixing bowl for glaze Method Preparation StepsCook 2 cups of strawberries, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Mix cornstarch with water, pour into the pan, stir for another minute, and let cool.In a small saucepan, whisk ¼ cup of water and ¼ cup of bread flour over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until thick. Let tangzhong cool.Combine 4 cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Add cream, milk, egg, and tangzhong. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, adding ½ cup softened butter. Form into a ball in a greased bowl, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes in a warm place.Punch down the dough, shape into a rectangle about 12x18 inches, and spread with cinnamon sugar and cooled strawberry filling.Roll the dough tightly from one edge into a log, slice into 12 pieces, and place in a greased baking pan. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.Preheat oven to 325°F (162°C). Bake rolls for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.While baking, prepare the glaze by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar until smooth. Add jam and enough milk for pouring consistency.Once baked, let the rolls cool for 10 minutes before glazing with cream cheese mixture. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure proper measurements for flour to avoid over-flouring. Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can dry out the rolls. Cool slightly before glazing for better adherence. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
