Strawberry cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast treat, combining the warm comfort of cinnamon rolls with the fruity sweetness of fresh strawberries. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself to something special, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds: fluffy dough, sweet-tart strawberry filling, and a luscious glaze.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make perfect strawberry cinnamon rolls from scratch, including variations, storage tips, and best baking techniques.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Bursting with Strawberry Flavor: Fresh or jammed strawberries elevate the classic cinnamon roll with fruity brightness.
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Soft and Fluffy Dough: Homemade dough creates a light and airy texture that melts in your mouth.
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Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or gifting during holidays.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the rolls in advance and bake them fresh in the morning.
Ingredients List
For the Dough:
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3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
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½ cup warm milk (110°F)
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 eggs, room temperature
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½ tsp salt
For the Strawberry Filling:
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1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, finely chopped
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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2 tbsp cornstarch
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp lemon juice
For the Cinnamon Sugar:
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup brown sugar
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: a few tablespoons of strawberry jam for color and flavor
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 25 minutes
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Rise Time: 1.5–2 hours
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Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: ~2.5 hours
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Servings: Makes 12 rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes on a floured surface or with a stand mixer using a dough hook until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
While the dough rises, place the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the mixture thickens and resembles jam, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Step 5: Roll and Fill the Dough
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 14×18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Spoon the cooled strawberry filling over the top.
Step 6: Roll and Cut
Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the long side. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 even slices.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them. Cover and let rise again for about 30–45 minutes, until puffed.
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top. If they start browning too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking.
Step 9: Make the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. For an extra touch, stir in a spoonful of strawberry jam for color and flavor.
Step 10: Glaze and Serve
Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately. The rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can also be reheated.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Cold eggs or milk can slow down yeast activity. Room temperature ingredients help create an even dough.
Avoid Overstuffing
Too much strawberry filling can make the rolls difficult to roll and cause them to burst during baking. Use just enough for flavor.
Chill the Filling
Letting the strawberry filling cool helps prevent soggy dough and makes spreading easier.
Try Dental Floss
Unflavored dental floss gives clean cuts without squishing the dough, keeping each roll neat.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
No Fresh Strawberries?
Use frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) or a good-quality store-bought strawberry jam instead.
Add Cream Cheese Frosting
Swap the glaze for a rich cream cheese frosting made with 4 oz cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp butter, and ½ tsp vanilla.
Make Them Vegan
Use dairy-free butter, almond milk, and flax eggs to create a completely plant-based version.
Add Texture
Mix chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) into the filling or sprinkle them on top before baking.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Overnight Rolls
Assemble the rolls, place them in the baking dish, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature (30–60 minutes) before baking.
Freezer Instructions
Freeze unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight, rise at room temp, and bake as usual.
How to Store and Reheat
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days.
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Freezer: Freeze rolls for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
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Serve with a fruit salad or yogurt for a brunch spread.
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Top with a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style presentation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dough Didn’t Rise?
Check that your yeast was active and your ingredients were not too cold or hot. Ideal water temp is between 105–115°F.
Filling Leaked Out?
Rolling too loosely or using too much filling can lead to leaks. Chill the filling and roll tightly.
Rolls Are Too Dense?
Under-kneaded dough or rushing the rise time can create dense rolls. Allow full proofing for fluffy texture.
FAQs
Can I use jam instead of making the strawberry filling?
Yes, you can use strawberry jam—just spread a thin, even layer to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make the dough without a stand mixer?
Absolutely. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
How do I prevent the rolls from burning?
Cover with foil in the last 10 minutes of baking if browning too quickly.
Can I freeze the baked rolls?
Yes. Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Strawberry cinnamon rolls are the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and classic cinnamon warmth. Whether you’re baking them fresh for breakfast or prepping ahead for a special occasion, these rolls will become a favorite in your recipe collection. With a tender homemade dough, flavorful strawberry filling, and sweet glaze, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. So grab your apron and treat yourself and your loved ones to a pan of homemade strawberry cinnamon rolls—they’re worth every bite.