Strawberry cinnamon rolls combine the comforting flavors of sweet cinnamon with fresh, juicy strawberries, creating a delightful twist on a classic favorite. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet treat any time of the day. You’ll enjoy the rich aroma that fills your kitchen as these rolls bake to golden perfection, and your taste buds will thank you for indulging in this delightful dessert.
Why We Love This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
There’s something magical about the combination of strawberry and cinnamon. The natural sweetness of strawberries pairs beautifully with the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and refreshing. Each bite of these cinnamon rolls offers a delightful contrast between the soft dough and the luscious strawberry filling. They are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make, allowing you to bring a touch of homemade goodness to your kitchen without extensive baking experience.
Strawberry cinnamon rolls brighten any breakfast table and can lift your morning spirits. Plus, the versatility of these rolls means you can customize them to fit your preferences. Whether you enjoy them plain, frosted, or with a drizzle of icing, these rolls satisfy any sweet craving. The joy of sharing these delightful treats with friends and family makes them even more special.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for the filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
Directions
- In a small bowl, activate the yeast by combining warm milk and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
- Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter and sprinkle ground cinnamon and brown sugar evenly over the surface.
- Add the sliced strawberries on top, spreading them evenly across the dough.
- Starting from the long end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal the roll.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the dish with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk, if necessary.
- Once done, drizzle the frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately.
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Serving strawberry cinnamon rolls is a joyous occasion that brings a smile to faces young and old alike. When the rolls come out of the oven, allow them to cool for just a few minutes before drizzling on the creamy frosting. The subtle warmth enhances the sweetness, creating a heavenly experience. You can serve them as they are or add a little more flair with garnishes like fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Perfect for brunch, you can accompany these rolls with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a cup of coffee or tea. If you are hosting a gathering, consider pairing them with other breakfast favorites such as scrambled eggs or breakfast casseroles for a complete meal. The visual appeal of these rolls, with their vibrant strawberry filling and fluffy texture, makes them an excellent centerpiece for any festive table. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or at room temperature, these strawberry cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Creating the perfect strawberry cinnamon rolls can be enhanced with a few expert tips. First, ensure that your yeast is activated properly, as this is crucial for the dough’s rise. The milk should be warm but not too hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. If using fresh strawberries, consider macerating them in a bit of sugar beforehand. This not only enhances their flavor but also helps reduce excess moisture, preventing soggy rolls.
When rolling out the dough, make sure to flour your surface sufficiently to avoid sticking. A ruler can help you achieve the right thickness and size for even rolls. After baking, let the rolls cool for just a few minutes before drizzling the frosting. This allows it to set slightly while still being deliciously gooey. If your dough doesn’t rise as expected, check the temperature and humidity where you’re proofing; a warm, humid environment encourages yeast activity.
Feel free to modify the frosting by adding vanilla extract or citrus zest for an extra flavor boost. Finally, don’t rush the process. Take your time and enjoy the creation; it’ll make the final product even more rewarding.
How to Store Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
To store strawberry cinnamon rolls, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 3 days on the counter. If you want to keep them for a more extended period, freezing is an excellent option.
To freeze the rolls, ensure they are well wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This way, you can indulge in homemade strawberry cinnamon rolls anytime.
Variations of Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Get creative with your strawberry cinnamon rolls by exploring various delightful variations. You can start by substituting strawberries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped peaches for seasonal flavors. Mixing in chocolate chips adds a rich twist that pairs well with the fruity filling.
For a cream cheese filling, blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Spread this on the dough before adding strawberries for a richer taste. To make them even more decadent, consider adding a streusel topping made of flour, sugar, and butter before baking.
You can also play with the frosting. Instead of traditional powdered sugar icing, opt for a glaze made with cream cheese or even a coconut milk option for a dairy-free twist. Add spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon for an extra flavorful kick. Each variation allows you to personalize your strawberry cinnamon rolls and keep things fresh and exciting.
FAQ about Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
What are strawberry cinnamon rolls?
Strawberry cinnamon rolls are sweet, fluffy rolls filled with a mixture of cinnamon and fresh strawberries, often topped with creamy frosting.
How do I prevent my cinnamon rolls from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, reduce the moisture content of the strawberries by macerating them with a little sugar before using them, and ensure the dough is properly baked.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling and filling it.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm, or microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.
Can I add nuts to my strawberry cinnamon rolls?
Yes, adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling can give your rolls extra crunch and flavor.
How long do strawberry cinnamon rolls last?
When stored properly, they can last up to 3 days at room temperature and up to 2 months in the freezer.
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons) Make sure yeast is active.
- 0.5 cup warm milk Warm to about 110°F.
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced Consider macerating with sugar.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted For brushing on the dough.
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk Adjust for desired consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, activate the yeast by combining warm milk and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Filling and Rolling
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 12x18 inches.
- Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. Sprinkle ground cinnamon and brown sugar evenly over the surface.
- Spread sliced strawberries evenly on top of the dough.
- Starting from the long end, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seams to seal.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover with a cloth and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately.
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