There is something truly magical about waking up to warm, aromatic cinnamon rolls that combine the classic gooey sweetness with the fresh burst of strawberries and a luscious cream cheese glaze. The Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe is a delightful twist on a beloved breakfast treat, offering an irresistible balance of fruity, creamy, and spiced flavors baked into every fluffy bite. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe promises to brighten your morning and become a fast favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, these ingredients come together effortlessly, each one contributing to the delightful layers of taste, texture, and vibrant color in the final dish.
- Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (16 ounces): The convenient base that bakes into soft, fluffy rolls with a classic cinnamon flavor.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, hulled and chopped): Brings natural sweetness, juiciness, and a fresh red color to the filling.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances the tartness of the strawberries and enhances sweetness.
- Cornstarch (1 teaspoon): Thickens the strawberry filling into a jam-like consistency without overpowering flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a warm, fragrant depth to the strawberry filling.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Creates a rich, creamy glaze that perfectly complements the sweet rolls.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese glaze while giving it a silky smooth texture.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Adjusts the glaze consistency for easy drizzling over the rolls.
- Lemon zest (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the sweetness and enriches the cream cheese glaze.
How to Make Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to ensure your cinnamon rolls don’t stick and bake up perfectly golden and soft.
Step 2: Cook the Strawberry Filling
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently as you cook the mixture until it thickens to a luscious jam-like texture, about 5 to 7 minutes. This homemade filling is what makes these rolls extraordinary, offering fresh fruit flavor with just the right amount of sweetness.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Carefully unroll the refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and gently flatten each roll. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of your homemade strawberry filling into the center of each flattened dough piece. Then, re-roll these up and place them snugly into your prepared baking dish, ready to puff up in the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the rolls for 13 to 17 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be utterly irresistible, capturing the sweet spices and fresh fruit notes that make this recipe so special.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While your rolls bake, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This glaze will add a tangy, decadent finish that perfectly balances the fruity strawberry filling.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Once your cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes to set slightly. Then drizzle the luscious cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Serve warm for the ultimate comfort breakfast experience.
How to Serve Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra effort on presentation takes these cinnamon rolls to the next level. Fresh strawberry slices sprinkled on top add vibrant color and a burst of juicy freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy glaze. You could also sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a sprig of fresh mint for a festive touch.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine as the star of your breakfast or brunch table but pairing them with a simple breakfast salad of mixed greens and citrus segments or a cup of rich coffee or tea will complement their sweetness perfectly and round out the meal delightfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe on a beautiful serving platter in a circle or stacked in a tiered display for gatherings. Another fun idea is to serve them in individual baking dishes for a charming, personal touch that will impress guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store your cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and flavorful. Refrigerating is an option but may dry them out unless well sealed.
Freezing
You can freeze baked rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy fresh-tasting pastries any time you desire.
Reheating
Warm your leftover rolls in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. This will revive their softness and melt the glaze slightly for that freshly baked experience.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought strawberry jam instead of fresh strawberries?
Absolutely! Using store-bought strawberry jam is a great shortcut that saves time. Just spoon a teaspoon of jam into each roll instead of the cooked fresh filling. It will still taste delicious and berry-packed.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese glaze?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk to make a vegan-friendly glaze that keeps the creamy texture and sweetness intact.
Can I prepare these cinnamon rolls the night before?
Definitely! You can assemble the rolls with the strawberry filling, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for a wonderfully fresh and easy breakfast.
How do I prevent the strawberry filling from making the dough soggy?
Cooking the strawberry mixture with cornstarch until thickened helps avoid sogginess by creating a jam-like texture that stays nicely inside the rolls without leaking.
What’s the best way to get a glossy cream cheese glaze?
Make sure your cream cheese is softened and whisk the glaze until it’s perfectly smooth and free of lumps. Adding a little milk at a time helps achieve a glossy, drippable consistency perfect for drizzling.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to sweet treats for breakfast or brunch. Its easy preparation, fresh fruity flavor, and irresistible creamy glaze all come together to create a comforting yet exciting twist on a classic favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to something truly special—your morning deserves it!
Print
Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling offer a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls. Featuring a luscious homemade strawberry filling and a smooth cream cheese glaze, they’re perfect for a fruity breakfast treat or brunch. The sweet-sticky rolls bake to golden perfection and are topped with a tangy glaze enhanced by lemon zest for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls and Filling
- 1 (16-ounce) package refrigerated cinnamon roll dough with icing
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the rolls after baking.
- Make the Strawberry Filling: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently as the mixture heats, cooking until it thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Unroll the cinnamon roll dough and gently flatten each individual roll. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the prepared strawberry filling into the center of each flattened roll. Carefully re-roll each one, ensuring the filling stays inside, and arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 13 to 17 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through.
- Make the Cream Cheese Glaze: While the rolls bake, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until the glaze is smooth and creamy.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the cinnamon rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls generously. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the homemade strawberry filling with store-bought strawberry jam for a quicker preparation.
- Adding extra fresh chopped strawberries on top of the glaze before serving adds a fresh and vibrant touch.
