Name: Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup warm milk; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 1/2 cups chopped strawberries (fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1 tsp lemon juice (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2–3 tbsp milk or cream; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 oz cream cheese (optional)

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Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are a sweet, fruity twist on the classic cinnamon roll, filled with juicy strawberries and warm cinnamon sugar, all wrapped in soft, fluffy dough. Topped with a creamy glaze or a drizzle of icing, these rolls are a stunning and delicious addition to any breakfast or brunch table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these rolls combine the comforting flavor of classic cinnamon rolls with the bright, tangy sweetness of strawberries. They’re soft, gooey, and bursting with berry flavor in every bite. Whether I’m baking them for a weekend treat or a special occasion, these strawberry cinnamon rolls always steal the show.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

All-purpose flour
Instant yeast
Granulated sugar
Salt
Warm milk
Egg
Unsalted butter (softened)

For the filling:

Fresh or frozen strawberries (chopped)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Cornstarch
Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For the glaze:

Powdered sugar
Milk or cream
Vanilla extract
Cream cheese (optional, for richness)

Directions

I start by mixing the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl and let it sit until foamy.
I add the egg, softened butter, salt, and flour, and mix until a soft dough forms.
I knead the dough for about 8 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl to rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, I make the filling by cooking the strawberries with sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch over medium heat until thickened. I let it cool completely.
I roll out the dough into a large rectangle, spread the strawberry mixture over the surface, then roll it up tightly from the long end.
I slice the roll into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
I cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
I bake the rolls at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
While they bake, I mix up the glaze with powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk (or add cream cheese for extra richness).
I drizzle or spread the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 rolls. It takes around 25 minutes to prep, 1.5 to 2 hours to rise, and 25 minutes to bake—so I plan for about 2.5 to 3 hours total.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped fresh basil or mint to the strawberry filling for a unique twist. If I want a shortcut, I use strawberry jam instead of homemade filling. I’ve also added a few mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-strawberry version that’s always a hit.

storage/reheating

I store these rolls covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4. To reheat, I microwave a roll for 15–20 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, I use frozen strawberries often. I just cook them straight from frozen, but I simmer a bit longer to remove extra moisture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prep the dough and rolls, refrigerate overnight, then let them rise and bake the next morning.

What’s the best way to slice the dough cleanly?

I use unflavored dental floss or a sharp serrated knife to avoid squishing the rolls while cutting.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, but I find the glaze adds that perfect touch of sweetness. Even a light drizzle goes a long way.

Do I have to cook the strawberry filling?

I do it to prevent the rolls from getting soggy. The cooked filling thickens up and stays in place better while baking.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are a beautiful, flavorful take on a classic favorite that I love baking for any special occasion—or just because. The soft dough, sweet cinnamon-berry filling, and creamy glaze make these rolls impossible to resist. Whether I serve them warm from the oven or enjoy one as a treat later in the day, they always feel like something special.