Name: Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting); 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast; ¾ cup warm milk (100–110°F / 38–43°C); ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 egg, room temperature; 1 egg yolk, room temperature; ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1 tbsp cornstarch; Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¾ cup powdered sugar; 2–3 tbsp milk or cream; ½ tsp vanilla extract; Optional: 2 oz cream cheese, softened

Sweet, fluffy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect upgrade to your classic morning treat. Imagine the warm scent of cinnamon mingled with the brightness of ripe strawberries, all wrapped in a soft dough and drizzled with rich, creamy icing. Every bite is a mix of buttery layers, juicy fruit, and a touch of tangy sweetness — a combination that will make these rolls a weekend favorite.

Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something indulgent, these rolls will deliver comfort and joy. They’re visually stunning with vibrant red berries tucked into golden spirals, and they taste even better than they look. Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are not just food — they’re a celebration of texture, taste, and the simple pleasure of homemade baking.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Fruity Twist on a Classic: The natural sweetness of strawberries adds a refreshing contrast to the warm cinnamon flavor.
Soft & Buttery Dough: The yeast dough bakes up tender and light, making each roll irresistibly fluffy.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls suit everything from Mother’s Day brunch to a cozy winter morning.
Customizable: Add a cream cheese glaze, lemon zest, or even white chocolate chips to make them your own.
Visually Gorgeous: The sliced strawberries not only enhance the flavor but add a burst of color that makes the dish Instagram-worthy.
Comfort Food With a Fresh Note: A comforting, familiar texture with the unexpected brightness of fresh berries.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Before diving into the baking process, it’s crucial to set up your workspace and gather the right equipment. Making yeast-based rolls requires some precision, and the right tools will help you get that perfect, bakery-quality finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: While you can knead by hand, a stand mixer makes the job faster and ensures even gluten development for a soft, elastic dough.
Mixing Bowls (at least 2 sizes): You’ll need a large bowl for mixing and proofing the dough, and a smaller one for preparing your strawberry filling or glaze.
Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough into a flat, even rectangle before adding the filling.
Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter: For slicing the rolled-up dough into individual rolls without squishing them.
Baking Dish or Casserole Pan: A round or rectangular baking dish (preferably ceramic or glass) allows for even heat distribution and helps keep the rolls soft.
Kitchen Scale (optional but helpful): Accurate measurements make all the difference in baking, especially when working with flour and yeast.
Plastic Wrap or Clean Kitchen Towel: Used to cover the dough while it rises, maintaining warmth and preventing drying.
Pastry Brush: Great for applying melted butter evenly before and after baking for that irresistible golden finish.

Each of these tools contributes to a smoother process and a more polished result, so having them on hand will elevate your baking game significantly.

Preparation Tips

Warm Ingredients Gently: When activating yeast, ensure your milk or water is lukewarm (around 100–110°F / 38–43°C). Too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
Use Room-Temperature Butter and Eggs: Cold ingredients can stiffen the dough and slow rising time. Set them out 30–45 minutes beforehand.
Don’t Rush the Rise: Let the dough rise until doubled in size. Rushing this phase may result in dense rolls. A warm, draft-free spot (like inside a turned-off oven with the light on) is ideal.
Use Fresh Strawberries: Wash and pat them dry thoroughly before slicing. Wet strawberries can release too much moisture into the dough.
Roll Tightly, but Gently: When forming the spiral, avoid squeezing too hard — you want a snug roll, not compressed layers.
Grease Your Baking Dish Generously: This ensures easy release and a soft, golden bottom on every roll.

Ingredients for This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Fresh, fragrant, and balanced — these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls rely on simple ingredients that come together in a delicious harmony of sweet, spiced, and fruity notes. Below is a complete list, broken down by component, to make prep smoother.

For the Dough

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
¾ cup warm milk (100–110°F / 38–43°C)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 egg, room temperature
1 egg yolk, room temperature
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
½ tsp salt

For the Strawberry-Cinnamon Filling

¾ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries (about 8–10 medium berries)
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 tbsp cornstarch (helps absorb strawberry moisture and prevents soggy dough)
Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract for added aroma

For the Glaze

¾ cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk or cream (adjust to desired thickness)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional: 2 oz cream cheese (softened) for a tangier glaze

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until it becomes foamy. This signals that your yeast is alive and ready to work.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the egg, egg yolk, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined. Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a dough hook (or by hand with a wooden spoon) until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Knead for 8–10 minutes, until the dough is soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, make the filling. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. In another, set aside the chopped strawberries (dry them well with a paper towel to reduce excess moisture). Keep your softened butter ready for spreading.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (roughly 14×10 inches). Spread the softened butter over the surface, leaving a ½-inch border. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top, then scatter the chopped strawberries across the dough.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or floss to cut the log into 8–10 equal pieces. Arrange them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the baking dish and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes, until they puff up and touch each other slightly.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until they’re golden on top and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.

Step 9: Glaze and Garnish

Let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (and optional cream cheese if using) until smooth. Drizzle generously over the warm rolls and garnish with fresh sliced strawberries for an extra visual and flavor boost.

Notes

Strawberry Selection Matters: Use ripe but firm strawberries to avoid sogginess. Too soft and they’ll leak too much liquid into the dough.
Cornstarch is Key: It may seem minor, but adding cornstarch to the filling helps thicken the strawberry juices as they bake, preventing soggy centers.
Let the Rolls Cool Slightly Before Glazing: If you glaze them too hot, it’ll melt off entirely; too cold, and the glaze won’t spread well. Aim for warm but not hot.
Flavor Twist: For added dimension, try adding lemon zest to the glaze or a pinch of cardamom to the filling.
Overnight Option: After slicing and placing the rolls in the pan, you can cover them and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise for 30–45 minutes before baking in the morning.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using Overly Warm Liquid: Yeast dies at temperatures above 120°F (49°C). Always check that your milk is warm but not hot — around 100–110°F (38–43°C) is perfect.
Skipping the Second Rise: The second rise is crucial for fluffy, bakery-style rolls. If you skip it or rush it, the texture will be dense.
Not Drying the Strawberries Enough: Fresh strawberries contain a lot of moisture. Pat them dry thoroughly to prevent a soggy, leaky filling.
Cutting Rolls with a Dull Knife: This compresses the dough and ruins the spiral shape. Use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife for clean cuts.
Underbaking: Always check that the centers are cooked through. If they’re browning too fast but still doughy inside, cover with foil and extend the bake time by 5–7 minutes.
Overpacking the Pan: Rolls need space to expand during baking. If they’re too tight, they’ll bake unevenly and may not rise well.
Adding Icing Too Early: If you glaze while the rolls are piping hot, the icing will melt completely. Wait 5–10 minutes for ideal drizzle consistency.

What to Serve With Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?

Whether you’re building a dreamy brunch spread or simply enhancing your morning routine, these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls pair beautifully with a range of side dishes and drinks. Their sweet and slightly tangy flavor opens the door to both rich and refreshing accompaniments.

8 Delicious Pairing Ideas:

Vanilla Yogurt Parfaits
Layered with granola and fresh berries, yogurt parfaits add a creamy, slightly tart contrast that balances the rolls’ sweetness.
Scrambled Eggs with Herbs
Lightly seasoned eggs with chives or dill provide a savory anchor to balance the sweet cinnamon and strawberry notes.
Fresh Berry Salad
Combine strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and mint with a drizzle of honey and lime for a vibrant, juicy side.
Crispy Bacon or Turkey Sausage
The saltiness and crunch of bacon or lean turkey sausage deliver the perfect contrast in both texture and taste.
Creamy Lattes or Cappuccinos
A smooth espresso-based drink pairs naturally with pastries and highlights the cinnamon undertones in each bite.
Mimosa or Sparkling Lemonade
For special occasions, a mimosa adds a touch of elegance. Sparkling lemonade is a great non-alcoholic alternative.
Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes
For those who prefer a savory start, creamy avocado on toasted sourdough adds fiber and richness without overshadowing the rolls.
Soft-Boiled Eggs with Toast Soldiers
A fun and nostalgic option, soft-boiled eggs add protein while toast “soldiers” let you scoop and dip between bites of your sweet roll.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls tasting fresh and delightful even after the first day, proper storage is key. Whether you’re meal-prepping, saving leftovers, or planning ahead, here’s how to store them:

At Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
Best enjoyed within 1–2 days.
Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.

Refrigeration

If you’ve added cream cheese to your glaze, it’s best to refrigerate the rolls.
Place in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Warm slightly in the microwave or oven before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

Rolls freeze well, both baked and unbaked:
- Baked: Let cool completely, wrap each roll tightly, and store in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm in the oven.
- Unbaked: After slicing, place rolls on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the pan, let rise, then bake fresh.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Roll, Approximate)

Calories: 320–380 kcal (depending on glaze and filling amount)
Fat: 12–16g
Carbohydrates: 50–55g
Sugars: 20–25g
Protein: 5–6g
Fiber: 1–2g
Cholesterol: 50–70mg
Sodium: 180–220mg

Note: Values may vary based on ingredient brands, size of rolls, and customizations (e.g., cream cheese glaze, added chocolate chips, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Frozen berries release more moisture, so be sure to add a bit of extra cornstarch to the filling to prevent sogginess.

2. Can I make the dough the night before?

Absolutely. After rolling and slicing, place the rolls in a greased dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let them rise at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before baking.

3. What’s the best way to reheat leftover rolls?

For a quick reheat, microwave each roll for 15–20 seconds. For best texture, use a low oven (300°F/150°C) for about 8–10 minutes.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat), vegan butter, and skip the cream cheese or use a vegan alternative for the glaze.

5. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Roll the dough snugly, not too tightly, and make sure your strawberries are dry. Adding cornstarch to the filling also helps to thicken and contain the juices as they bake.

6. Can I add nuts or other fruit?

Definitely. Chopped pecans or walnuts go great with strawberries. You could also swap in raspberries or blueberries, or mix them for a berry blend.

7. Do I need a stand mixer to make these?

No. While a stand mixer makes kneading easier, you can knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

8. Can I use this dough recipe for other types of rolls?

Yes! This is a versatile, soft dough that works great with other fillings like classic cinnamon sugar, apple-caramel, or Nutella.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls offer a delicious twist on a classic favorite — combining the soft, fluffy comfort of traditional cinnamon rolls with the vibrant sweetness of fresh strawberries. Whether served at brunch, gifted to friends, or enjoyed with your morning coffee, these rolls are guaranteed to delight with every bite. The balance of buttery dough, fragrant spice, and juicy berries makes them a standout treat that’s both familiar and exciting.

Simple ingredients, a little patience, and the right technique bring this recipe to life. It’s a celebration of homemade baking that brings joy to any table. Once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your weekend or holiday baking list.