If you are looking for a delightful twist to breakfast or brunch, this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will absolutely captivate your taste buds. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls perfectly swirled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend and bursting with juicy, tangy strawberries in every bite. These rolls balance the classic comfort of cinnamon rolls with the fresh vibrancy of strawberries, creating a treat that feels indulgent yet fresh. Whether you’re serving loved ones at a weekend gathering or simply want to brighten your morning, this recipe delivers warmth, sweetness, and that irresistible fruity pop that makes cinnamon rolls feel brand new.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with a single layer of light pink whipped cream that has small red specks mixed throughout. The whipped cream has smooth, soft swirls and peaks on top, giving it a fluffy texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with soft, even lighting highlighting the creamy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the creamy texture of the butter and cream cheese to the fresh zing of lemon juice that lifts the strawberry filling. You’ll find the list straightforward and accessible, ensuring that even novice bakers can confidently create these delicious rolls.

260 ml (1 cup) warm milk: The warm milk activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
10 g (1 tbsp) instant dry yeast: The essential agent that makes your dough rise beautifully fluffy.
540 g (4 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewiness of your rolls.
65 g (⅓ cup) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough, complementing the strawberry filling.
1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1 large egg, room temperature: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
80 g (⅓ cup) unsalted butter, very soft: Contributes to tender, moist rolls with a buttery flavor.
250 g (1 ¾ cups) fresh or frozen strawberries: The star ingredient that turns classic cinnamon rolls into something extraordinary.
50 g (¼ cup) granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the strawberry filling perfectly.
Juice of half a lemon: Brightens the strawberry filling, adding the perfect tang.
100 g (½ cup) cream cheese, softened (Philadelphia recommended): For a luscious, creamy glaze that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
40 g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened (for glaze): Creates a silky smooth texture in the frosting.
60 g (½ cup) powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a perfect drizzle.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and warm aroma to the frosting.
2 tbsp strawberry puree, cold (from the filling): Infuses the glaze with natural fruit flavor and a lovely pink tint.

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The image shows a white square baking dish filled with nine cinnamon rolls, each topped with a swirl of smooth, pink icing. The rolls are golden brown at the edges and sit closely packed, with some topped with fresh, halved strawberries that add bright red accents and green leaves. Around the dish, on a white marbled surface, there is a glass bowl filled with whole strawberries, a stack of plain white plates, two silver spoons, a small white plate with two stacked forks, and a clear bowl of the same pink icing with a silver spoon inside. The scene is bright and inviting, with soft natural light enhancing the creamy textures and rich colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming your milk to about 38°C (100°F), just the right temperature to activate the yeast without killing it. Stir in the instant dry yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy and alive. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter, then mix everything until it forms a sticky dough. Knead gently for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling

While the dough is rising, rinse and hull your strawberries if using fresh, or thaw if frozen. Chop them finely and mix with the 50 grams of sugar and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit so the strawberries release their juices and the flavors blend beautifully. You’ll want a juicy but not overly wet filling that can easily spread on the dough without making it soggy.

Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Dough

Once your dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle roughly 40 x 30 cm (16 x 12 inches). Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle a light layer of cinnamon and sugar here if you like an extra cinnamon kick, though this recipe shines with the natural strawberry flavor alone.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls and Proof

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal so your filling stays inside while baking. Slice the log into 12 equal rolls and arrange them cut side up in a greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space to allow for another rise. Cover the dish and let the rolls proof for 30–45 minutes until puffy and soft again.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You want a beautiful crust on top while keeping the swirl soft and full of strawberry goodness. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before frosting.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

Combine the softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing well until creamy. Fold in the chilled strawberry puree carefully to create a glossy pink glaze. Spread or drizzle generously over warm rolls for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped strawberries or a few delicate mint leaves over the glazed rolls just before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds a charming, bakery-style finish that makes these rolls look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

These cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with a simple bowl of vanilla yogurt or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness. Enjoying a cup of hot coffee, tea, or even a cold glass of milk will elevate the entire experience and turn your breakfast or snack time into a memorable occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls in a rustic wooden tray lined with a colorful cloth napkin for a cozy, inviting vibe. Alternatively, try stacking a few rolls on a dessert platter topped with whipped cream and more strawberry slices for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece. These ideas make your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe feel special without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover rolls are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them wrapped well to retain moisture. They tend to lose some freshness quickly, so enjoy as soon as possible for the sweetest taste and softest texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping by arranging them in a freezer-safe container and covering tightly. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then proof and bake as usual. Alternatively, freeze baked rolls wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

To refresh your rolls, warm them gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 5–8 minutes. This helps regain their soft texture and melts the glaze slightly, making each bite irresistibly gooey. Avoid microwaving for too long as it can make rolls rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work perfectly as long as you thaw and drain any excess liquid to avoid soggy dough. Their natural sweetness and texture remain delightful in the filling.

Is it necessary to use instant dry yeast?

Instant dry yeast is recommended for ease and a reliable rise, but you can substitute with active dry yeast. Just dissolve active dry yeast in warm milk and wait for it to foam before mixing with dry ingredients.

Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate overnight. The next day, bring it to room temperature before rolling out and filling for fresher aroma and flavor.

How do I prevent the strawberry filling from making the dough soggy?

Make sure to finely chop the strawberries and drain excess juice if necessary. The lemon juice helps firm the filling, plus spreading it evenly in a thin layer keeps the dough stable.

Can I add nuts or other toppings to the rolls?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, almonds, or even white chocolate chips make delicious additions. Sprinkle them over the filling or on top before baking for extra crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe enough if you want to treat yourself or loved ones to something truly special that combines the cozy warmth of cinnamon rolls with the fresh brightness of strawberries. Once you make these, you’ll see why they have quickly become one of my all-time favorite indulgences. Happy baking and enjoy every sweet, fruity bite!