If you have a soft spot for warm, comforting pastries with a fruity twist, then this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine pillowy soft rolls, generously swirled with a sweet strawberry filling combined with just the right hint of cinnamon, all finished off with a luscious vanilla glaze that melts on your tongue. This recipe brings the joy of bakery-style cinnamon rolls right into your kitchen, and once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, including a white bowl filled with chopped red strawberries on the top left, a white bowl with crushed crackers or cookies on the top right, a small white bowl holding granulated white sugar on the middle left, a large white bowl in the center filled with white powdered sugar, a stick of yellow butter below it, and a white cup with a yellow liquid near the top right. Additional small white bowls contain a brown spice, white salt, an orange-yellow substance, and some white cream cheese, with one brown egg placed on the bottom right side. The image is bright and clean, showing clear colors and simple textures, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe plays a crucial role in building those soft layers and delivering mouthwatering flavor. From the simple flour and yeast for that tender dough to the vibrant strawberry jam that brightens up the filling, each component is essential yet straightforward.

Flour (2 cups): The foundation of the dough that provides structure and softness.
Instant yeast (1 packet): Helps the dough rise to that perfect fluffy texture quickly.
Sugar (¼ cup): Adds natural sweetness that balances the tang of strawberries.
Warm milk (½ cup): Activates the yeast and makes the dough tender.
Butter, melted (¼ cup): Brings richness and a delicate crumb to the rolls.
Egg (1): Incorporates moisture and helps with the dough’s elasticity.
Strawberry jam (½ cup): The star of the filling, providing vibrant color and sweet strawberry flavor.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warmth and spice to perfectly compliment the strawberries.
Powdered sugar (½ cup): The base of the glaze for that classic sweet finish.
Milk (1 tbsp): Mixes into the glaze for smoothness and drizzle ability.
Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Enhances the glaze with a lovely fragrant touch.

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by mixing the flour, instant yeast, sugar, warm milk, melted butter, and egg in a large bowl. Stir until the dough comes together, then knead it by hand or with a stand mixer for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading helps develop the gluten needed for soft, fluffy rolls. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Roll Out and Add Filling

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon on top for that classic flavorful swirl. This filling is what makes these rolls truly sing with sweetness and warmth.

Step 3: Shape and Rise the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough from one long edge into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 8 equal rolls and place them cut side up in a greased baking dish. Cover them loosely and let them rise again for about 30 minutes to achieve that pillowy height.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, keeping an eye on their golden-brown tops and smelling that irresistible aroma filling the kitchen. Once done, let them cool just a little before adding the final touch.

Step 5: Drizzle the Vanilla Glaze

Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth and glossy. Drizzle this delicious glaze generously over the warm rolls so it seeps into every nook and cranny. This sweet finish perfectly complements the strawberry filling and cinnamon undertones.

How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For an extra burst of freshness, garnish your cinnamon rolls with a few sliced fresh strawberries or a light sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts. It adds a nice texture contrast and elevates the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a chilled glass of milk. For a more substantial brunch, consider serving alongside fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, serve your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe on a pretty platter with the glaze drizzled just before serving. You could also bake them in individual ramekins or muffin tins for charming single servings that look as good as they taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their softness without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls at the shaping stage by wrapping the pan tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, let them rise, and then bake as usual. Baked rolls can also be frozen; just wrap them well and thaw before reheating.

Reheating

To enjoy your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe fresh again, warm individual rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This restores their soft, gooey texture as if they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of jam?

While fresh strawberries can add a lovely texture, jam gives a smoother, more cohesive filling that holds up well during baking. For best results, use strawberry jam as specified or consider making your own cooked strawberry filling for a fresher twist.

Is instant yeast necessary for this recipe?

Instant yeast is recommended because it works quickly and reliably, making the dough rise beautifully within the given time. If you don’t have instant yeast, active dry yeast can be used, but you might need to activate it first and allow extra rising time.

How do I make my cinnamon rolls extra fluffy?

The key is proper kneading and letting the dough rise fully. Make sure your kitchen is warm enough for the rising process, and don’t rush the resting times. Also, incorporating butter and egg helps create a tender, pillowy crumb.

Can I substitute raspberry jam for the strawberry filling?

Absolutely! Raspberry jam offers a delicious alternative and adds a slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. Feel free to experiment with your favorite berry jams for a fun variation.

Should I eat these rolls warm or cold?

They are best enjoyed warm when the dough is soft and the glaze is slightly melty. However, they still taste great at room temperature, so feel free to enjoy them however you prefer.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about pulling a batch of golden, fragrant cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven, and this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is no exception. It combines the familiar comfort of cinnamon rolls with the bright sweetness of strawberries, creating a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a little homemade joy. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share that warm, sticky goodness with your loved ones!