Meet your new breakfast obsession: Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls! Imagine classic, pillowy-soft cinnamon rolls, but with a luscious swirl of ripe strawberries and jam. These rolls are the harmonious union of juicy berries, aromatic cinnamon, and buttery dough, finished off with a rich vanilla glaze. Whether you’re gathering for a weekend breakfast or looking to dazzle at brunch, these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls bring festivity and comfort in every sweet, gooey bite.

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised by how just a handful of simple ingredients—flour, strawberries, butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon—work their magic when combined. Each item in this recipe plays an essential role, from building soft, fluffy layers to delivering that fresh burst of berry flavor and silky-sweet glaze.

Warm milk (1 cup at 110°F): The gentle heat activates the yeast and creates a tender dough.
Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Helps the rolls rise to pillowy perfection.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the dough and gives it a golden color.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/3 cup for dough; 1/4 cup softened for filling): Adds richness, flavor, and that irresistible softness.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every other flavor and balances the sweetness.
Eggs (2 large): Bring structure and extra richness to the dough.
All-purpose flour (4 cups): Forms the framework for those soft, fluffy spirals.
Diced fresh strawberries (1 cup): Juicy bursts of berry flavor swirl through every bite.
Strawberry jam (1/2 cup): Intensifies the strawberry flavor and keeps the filling moist.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Brings depth and gooeyness to the filling.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Infuses aroma and warmth that classic cinnamon rolls are known for.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): For the glaze that drapes each roll in smooth sweetness.
Milk (2–3 tablespoons for glaze): Reaches the perfect drizzling consistency for your glaze.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the glaze with delicate, aromatic notes.

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Start by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture gets nice and foamy. This step ensures your rolls will rise beautifully, giving you that bakery-style texture. If your yeast isn’t bubbling, it might be time for a fresh pack!

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and the freshly bloomed yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Don’t rush—this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Knead to Perfection

Roll up your sleeves and knead the dough on a floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. This step gives your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls that dreamy, tender chew. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm, cozy spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Step 4: Roll Out and Fill

Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 14×10-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the entire surface, then evenly smear on the strawberry jam. Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and top it with bright pops of diced strawberries. The filling is what turns these from classic to extraordinary!

Step 5: Roll, Slice, and Rise Again

Starting from the long end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice it into 12 even rolls using a serrated knife or dental floss for extra clean cuts. Place the rolls, cut side up, into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes, until they puff up and fill the pan.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your whole kitchen smells like a strawberry-scented bakery. Try not to peek too often—it’s worth the wait!

Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the glaze generously over the warm swirls. Watch as it sinks into every crack and crevice, making each roll irresistibly sticky and sweet!

How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

For a fresh finish, sprinkle your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with a handful of extra diced strawberries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A few mint leaves add vibrant contrast and a hint of fragrance that guests will notice right away.

Side Dishes

Pair these gooey rolls with creamy Greek yogurt, crispy bacon, or fresh fruit salad for a brunch spread that covers all the bases. For a celebratory breakfast, a cup of good coffee or a frothy cappuccino makes the perfect partner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls straight from a cast-iron skillet for a homey, rustic vibe, or stack them high on a cake stand for a showstopping brunch centerpiece. You can even arrange individual rolls in colorful cupcake wrappers for a grab-and-go treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge if you want them to stay fresh a bit longer. They’re delightful at room temperature, but reheating brings that just-baked magic back.

Freezing

To freeze, let the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just remember to thaw before reheating!

Reheating

For soft and gooey results, reheat the rolls in a preheated 325°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave each roll for 20–30 seconds. A light drizzle of fresh glaze after reheating will make them taste bakery-fresh all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the strawberries well to prevent excess moisture from making the rolls soggy. Frozen berries can give you great results when fresh ones aren’t available.

Can I prepare Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls the night before?

Yes! Assemble the rolls as directed and do the second rise in the fridge overnight, tightly covered. In the morning, bring them back to room temperature while the oven preheats and bake as usual for effortless breakfast magic.

How do I make cream cheese glaze instead?

Simply beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a touch of vanilla extract. This tangy, creamy topping pairs perfectly with the sweet strawberry filling!

Can I halve the recipe?

Definitely! Halve all of the ingredients, and use a smaller baking dish. You’ll still get perfectly fluffy and fruity Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, just in a more manageable batch.

What’s the best way to tell if the rolls are baked through?

The tops should be golden and the centers should spring back when lightly pressed. If you’re unsure, carefully peek at a center roll to ensure it’s fully cooked and not doughy inside.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably special about pulling a tray of warm, homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls from the oven—each swirl bursting with berries, cinnamon, and buttery goodness. Give this recipe a try and make an ordinary morning extraordinary. Happy baking!