Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Dreamy Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: A Sweet Morning Treat

Sweet mornings bloom with these delectable strawberry cinnamon rolls that weave fruity magic into classic pastry comfort.

Soft, pillowy dough embraces vibrant strawberry swirls and warm cinnamon notes with delightful elegance.

Every bite promises a burst of fruity freshness mingled with rich, comforting spices.

Tender layers unfold like delicate petals, revealing a luscious strawberry filling that dances across your palate.

The aroma of baking rolls will drift through your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby with their irresistible warmth.

Perfectly golden edges and a glossy strawberry glaze complete this breakfast masterpiece that transforms an ordinary morning into something extraordinary.

Bake these rolls and watch smiles bloom around your breakfast table.

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Standout Highlights

  • Burst with Fruity Freshness: Elevate traditional cinnamon rolls with vibrant strawberry compote, creating a delightful twist that transforms an ordinary breakfast into a special treat.
  • Craft with Minimal Expertise: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe offers straightforward steps and forgiving techniques that guarantee delicious results every single time.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Adaptable design allows for personal touches like extra cinnamon, different fruit compotes, or creative frosting variations to match your taste preferences.
  • Weekend Brunch Champion: Impress family and friends with a show-stopping pastry that looks professionally made but requires only basic baking skills and standard kitchen tools.

Everything for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Flavor

Main Ingredients:

Dough Components:
  • Flour: Provides the base structure for the soft and pillowy rolls.
  • Yeast: Creates rise and develops the fluffy texture of the rolls.
  • Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
Liquid Ingredients:
  • Milk: Ensures moisture and helps activate the yeast.
  • Butter: Adds flavor and contributes to the tender texture of the rolls.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Sugar, Salt, Lemon Zest: Provide balanced sweetness, enhance overall flavor, and add brightness to the dough.

Filling and Topping Ingredients:

Fruit Component:
  • Strawberry Compote: Adds sweet, fruity flavor and moisture to the rolls.
Spice Component:
  • Cinnamon: Provides warm, aromatic depth to the rolls.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Butter, Cream Cheese: Create a rich and creamy base for the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
  • Cream or Milk: Adjusts the frosting's consistency.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Strawberry Slices: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished rolls.

Making Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls at Home

Step 1: Warm Up the Milk

Heat milk in a saucepan until small bubbles appear around the edges.

Remove from heat and stir in butter until completely melted.

Let the mixture cool down to a comfortable lukewarm temperature.

Step 2: Create Dough Foundation

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine:
  • Flour
  • Yeast
  • Sugar
  • Salt
  • Lemon zest

Add the egg and prepared milk mixture, stirring thoroughly.

Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, mixing after each addition to create a smooth consistency.

Step 3: Knead and Develop Texture

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead the dough by hand for about 5 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.

The dough should feel elastic and bounce back when gently pressed.

Step 4: Allow First Resting Period

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest peacefully for 10 minutes.

This helps the gluten relax and develops flavor.

Step 5: Spread and Fill

Roll the dough into a rectangular shape measuring approximately 12×9 inches.

Generously spread strawberry compote across the surface.

Sprinkle cinnamon evenly if desired.

Step 6: Slice and Shape Rolls

Using a pizza cutter, divide the dough into 12 equal strips.

Carefully roll each strip and nestle them into a baking pan.

Step 7: Second Rising Stage

Cover the rolls and place them in a warm, draft-free spot.

Allow them to rise and double in size, which typically takes around 45 minutes.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Bake the rolls for 23-25 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 9: Whip Up Creamy Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until silky smooth.

Incorporate strawberry compote.

Gradually add powdered sugar, adjusting with cream or milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.

Step 10: Final Touch and Serve

Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes.

Top with fresh strawberry slices if you want extra flair.

Spread the luscious frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Smart Tips for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

  • Ensure milk mixture cools to lukewarm before adding to flour to prevent killing yeast and maintain perfect dough texture.
  • Add flour gradually while stirring to achieve ideal dough consistency and prevent clumping or dry patches.
  • Check dough readiness by gently pressing – it should spring back quickly, indicating proper kneading and gluten development.
  • Place rolls in warm, draft-free area during rising stages to help dough expand evenly and create soft, fluffy texture.
  • Top rolls with fresh strawberry slices just before serving for extra burst of flavor and beautiful presentation.

Fresh Twists for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Fans

  • Gluten-Free Strawberry Rolls: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend, ensuring same texture and binding with xanthan gum.
  • Vegan Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls: Substitute dairy milk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, replace egg with flax egg, and swap cream cheese frosting with cashew-based cream.
  • Low-Sugar Berry Version: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, replace strawberry compote with chia seed jam, and reduce overall sugar content in frosting.
  • Whole Wheat Healthier Option: Swap half white flour with whole wheat flour, use greek yogurt in dough for added protein, and incorporate ground flaxseed for nutrition boost.

Fun Ways to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

  • Sweet Breakfast Companion: Pair these strawberry cinnamon rolls with a light Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries for a balanced morning meal.
  • Afternoon Tea Delight: Serve alongside a hot cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea, creating a perfect mid-day indulgence with complementary fruit and herbal notes.
  • Dessert Transformation: Elevate the rolls into a decadent dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and drizzling extra strawberry compote on top for a luxurious sweet treat.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Present the rolls on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh mint leaves and additional sliced strawberries, making them a stunning centerpiece for weekend gatherings.

Storing Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Properly

  • Store cooled strawberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual rolls separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
  • Keep rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with a clean kitchen towel. Best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal taste and texture.

FAQs

  • What type of yeast works best for this recipe?

Active dry or instant yeast works perfectly. If using active dry yeast, activate it in warm milk first. Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients.

  • Can I use frozen strawberries for the compote?

Yes, frozen strawberries work great. Thaw and drain excess liquid before making the compote to prevent watery filling. Fresh strawberries are preferred for best flavor and texture.

  • How do I know the dough is kneaded correctly?

The dough should feel smooth and elastic, and spring back when gently pressed. It shouldn’t stick to your hands. Proper kneading takes about 5-7 minutes by hand or 3-4 minutes in a stand mixer.

Print
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Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe


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4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Warm, gooey strawberry cinnamon rolls bring pure breakfast bliss straight from your kitchen. Sweet strawberry swirls and tender dough create a delightful morning treat you won’t forget.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick/113 grams) butter
  • 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) milk
  • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast

Complementary Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Filling and Topping Ingredients:

  • 1/2 batch strawberry compote
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons strawberry compote
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar
  • Heavy cream or milk, as needed

Instructions

  1. Gently warm milk until tiny bubbles form, then remove from heat and incorporate butter, stirring until completely dissolved. Allow mixture to cool to lukewarm temperature.
  2. Combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and lemon zest in a spacious mixing bowl. Introduce egg and milk mixture, blending thoroughly. Progressively incorporate remaining flour, mixing after each addition.
  3. Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead methodically until achieving a silky, elastic texture. The dough should smoothly rebound when gently pressed.
  4. Drape a damp cloth over dough and allow brief relaxation for 10 minutes.
  5. Skillfully stretch dough into a rectangular shape measuring approximately 12×9 inches. Generously distribute strawberry compote across surface and sprinkle with fragrant cinnamon.
  6. Utilize a pizza cutter to segment dough into 12 uniform sections. Carefully roll each section and nestle into prepared baking pan.
  7. Shield rolls and position in a warm environment, permitting them to expand until volume doubles, approximately 45 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F and bake rolls for 23-25 minutes until achieving a golden, appetizing appearance.
  9. Whip butter and cream cheese until achieving a seamless consistency. Fold in compote and gradually integrate powdered sugar. Adjust texture with cream or milk as needed.
  10. Allow rolls to settle for 10 minutes. Optionally garnish with fresh strawberry slices and lavishly spread with prepared frosting. Serve while warmth remains inviting.

Notes

  • Adjust milk temperature carefully to ensure yeast activation without killing it, using a thermometer for precise lukewarm conditions around 110°F.
  • Try gluten-free flour blends for those with wheat sensitivities, maintaining similar texture by adding xanthan gum for binding.
  • Control moisture in strawberry compote by cooking down excess liquid to prevent soggy roll bottoms and ensure concentrated fruit flavor.
  • Maximize rise and softness by creating a humid proofing environment, covering rolls with plastic wrap and placing in a warm, draft-free spot like inside an unheated oven with a pan of hot water.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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