Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

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When I first pulled these strawberry cinnamon rolls out of the oven, I knew I had something special. The aroma alone was enough to make my entire kitchen feel like a warm, comforting hug. Every swirl of soft dough wrapped around a vibrant strawberry filling, kissed with the sweetness of cinnamon, instantly told me this was a treat worth savoring. I love cinnamon rolls in general, but adding strawberries took them to another level. They’re fruity, gooey, and absolutely irresistible.

I started making these on a lazy Saturday morning when I had some extra strawberries on the verge of becoming too ripe. It felt like the perfect excuse to get creative with a sweet breakfast. As the rolls baked, the strawberries turned lusciously jammy, blending with the butter and cinnamon in a way that felt indulgent and summery. The result? A sticky, sweet, tender bun with a flavor profile that dances between a classic roll and a fresh berry pie.

These have become my go-to when I want to surprise family or guests with something just a little different. They never last long on the table, and everyone always asks for the recipe. Pair these with a cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk, and you’ll understand why I’m so obsessed with them. If you enjoy other comforting treats like my Nutella French Toast Casserole or the soft chewiness of my Raspberry Crescent Rolls, you’re going to fall in love with these strawberry cinnamon rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These strawberry cinnamon rolls are not just another breakfast pastry. They bring a refreshing twist to the traditional roll with their juicy, slightly tangy strawberry center that cuts through the richness of the dough and cinnamon. The texture is everything you could want — soft and fluffy on the inside, slightly golden and chewy on the outside. Plus, the pink swirl of strawberries makes them as beautiful as they are delicious.

What really seals the deal is the balance of flavors. The fruitiness from the strawberries complements the warmth of the cinnamon and the richness of the glaze you can drizzle over the top. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a sweet midday treat, these rolls feel special without being fussy.

Ingredients

Strawberries are the heart of this recipe, bringing a juicy, slightly tangy sweetness that transforms every bite. I use fresh strawberries, finely chopped, to ensure that the filling remains vibrant and textured.

Granulated sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries and also blends beautifully with the cinnamon for the filling.

Ground cinnamon gives the rolls their classic warmth and spice. It pairs wonderfully with the strawberries, making each bite feel cozy and nostalgic.

All-purpose flour forms the structure of the dough. It provides the soft yet sturdy base needed for rolling and baking.

Active dry yeast is essential for creating that fluffy, pillowy texture. It helps the dough rise perfectly.

Whole milk adds richness to the dough and helps keep it tender and moist.

Unsalted butter is used generously in both the dough and filling for a deep, indulgent flavor.

Eggs add structure and contribute to the overall softness of the dough.

Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the dough.

Powdered sugar is used in the glaze for a smooth, sweet finish that perfectly complements the fruity center.

Vanilla extract rounds out the glaze with a touch of warm, aromatic depth.

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Warm the milk until just lukewarm, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit until foamy. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add in the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling

While the dough rises, mix the finely chopped strawberries with sugar and a touch of cornstarch if needed to thicken. Let them sit to release juices and develop a jammy texture.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Once the dough has doubled, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread softened butter across the dough, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon sugar. Spoon the strawberry mixture over the top, distributing it across the surface.

Step 4: Slice and Rise

Carefully roll the dough from one long end to the other, keeping the strawberry filling tucked inside. Slice into even rolls and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again until puffy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven until the rolls are golden and cooked through. The strawberries will bubble and caramelize slightly at the edges.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a bit of milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

There are several ways to switch up these strawberry cinnamon rolls while keeping their charm intact. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can use frozen strawberries or swap them for raspberries or blueberries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar slightly to balance the tartness. For a tropical twist, diced mango can offer a fun flavor change.

You can also play with the dough. Try using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or a store-bought dough if you’re short on time. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives. The glaze can be flavored with lemon zest or even a touch of almond extract for a unique finish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Strawberry cinnamon rolls shine brightest when served warm, fresh out of the oven. They’re perfect on their own, but pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can turn them into a decadent dessert. For breakfast, I like to serve them with a side of scrambled eggs and a hot cup of coffee.

If you’re preparing brunch, a fruity salad or a glass of sparkling rosé makes a beautiful accompaniment. These rolls are also delightful served alongside other berry-based treats like my Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake or even a warm bowl of Nutella French Toast Casserole for a crowd-pleasing spread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them to keep fresh for up to five days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat a roll in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm a whole batch in a 300°F oven until soft and fragrant.

If you want to make them ahead, prepare and slice the rolls, then store them unbaked in the fridge overnight. Let them rise the next morning before baking. They also freeze beautifully—just wrap each roll individually and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls, place them in the baking dish, and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking the next morning.

What if I don’t have fresh strawberries for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?

Frozen strawberries work just as well. Thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

How do I prevent the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls from becoming soggy?

Make sure your filling isn’t too wet. You can add a bit of cornstarch to the strawberry mixture to thicken it and prevent sogginess during baking.

Can I freeze baked Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely. Allow the rolls to cool completely, wrap them individually, and freeze. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm and soft.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved the fruity burst in these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, you won’t want to miss my Raspberry Crescent Rolls. They’re another soft and gooey treat with a bright berry twist. And if you crave comforting breakfasts with rich flavor, my Nutella French Toast Casserole is a must-try. For an equally eye-catching dessert, check out the Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Make sure to save this recipe by pinning it to your breakfast or dessert boards on Pinterest. It’s a guaranteed favorite that you’ll come back to time and time again. Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family—you can email it, send a link, or tag someone who needs a little baking inspiration. Trust me, these strawberry cinnamon rolls are too good to keep to yourself!

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