Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze

If you’re looking for a breakfast treat that blends fruity sweetness with a warm, gooey cinnamon hug, let me introduce you to the irresistible Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze. These rolls feature soft, fluffy dough swirled with fresh strawberries and cinnamon sugar, topped off with a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth. It’s the ultimate indulgence for berry lovers and cinnamon fans alike, and trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Fruity Flavor: The sweet, juicy strawberries add a bright burst of natural sweetness that perfectly balances the cinnamon warmth.
• Soft, Fluffy Texture: These rolls are tender and airy, thanks to the perfectly proofed dough that melts as soon as you bite in.
• Decadent Cream Cheese Glaze: The smooth, tangy glaze gives each roll a rich finish that complements the fruit and cinnamon beautifully.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, a cozy weekend morning, or a special treat, these cinnamon rolls impress every time.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: This recipe uses familiar ingredients with easy-to-follow steps that deliver bakery-quality rolls at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze is easier than it sounds, thanks to simple yet essential ingredients. Each plays an important role in the dough’s fluffiness, the filling’s burst of flavor, and the glaze’s creaminess.

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for soft and airy dough, make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Active Dry Yeast: This magical ingredient helps the dough rise to fluffy perfection.
• Whole Milk: Adds richness and moisture to the dough, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Sugar: Sweetens both the dough and the filling, balancing out the tart strawberries.
• Butter: Melted butter for the dough and filling ensures that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Cinnamon: The warming spice that harmonizes everything in the filling.
• Fresh Strawberries: Adds natural sweetness, color, and a juicy surprise inside every roll.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the glaze, providing tangy richness and smooth texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the glaze gently and dissolves beautifully for a glossy finish.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings aromatic warmth to the cream cheese glaze.

Variations for Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re adapting for different dietary needs, switching up the fruit, or even adding toppings, there’s plenty of room to get creative.

• Berry Mix-Up: Substitute or add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunchy texture contrast.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese to keep everything dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free Dough: Swap the all-purpose flour with a reliable gluten-free baking mix for sensitive diets.
• Zesty Citrus: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest in the glaze to brighten and elevate flavors.

How to Make Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast in warm milk mixed with a teaspoon of sugar. Once bubbly, combine with flour, melted butter, sugar, salt, and eggs to knead a soft, slightly sticky dough. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough proofs, wash and dice fresh strawberries. Mix them with softened butter, cinnamon, and sugar to create a luscious filling that’s bursting with fruit and spice.

Step 3: Roll and Slice

Roll the dough out into a rectangle, then spread the strawberry cinnamon filling evenly on top. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a log and slice it into even rolls, about 1.5 to 2 inches thick.

Step 4: Second Rise

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, allowing some space in between for expansion. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and smell heavenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

While rolls bake, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle or spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm rolls, letting it melt into the nooks and crannies for that perfect finish.

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temp eggs, butter, and milk helps with even mixing and better dough consistency.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid soggy rolls by using just enough strawberry filling to cover the dough without excess liquid.
• Proper Proofing: Give the dough enough time to rise until doubled; it makes rolls lighter and fluffier.
• Even Slicing: Use dental floss or a sharp knife to cut clean, even rolls for uniform baking.
• Warm the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily into the glaze, ensuring a smooth finish.

How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze

Garnishes

Top your strawberry cinnamon rolls with fresh sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a few mint leaves for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls with a side of creamy yogurt or a small bowl of fresh fruit salad to balance out the sweetness and add a refreshing note to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board or colorful ceramic platter and drizzle extra glaze just before serving to make a gorgeous and inviting breakfast spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover strawberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4-5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked, sliced rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and allow a second rise before baking.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a 350°F oven wrapped in foil for 10 minutes to enjoy them fresh and soft again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, frozen strawberries work fine, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling that affects the dough texture.

How long will these cinnamon rolls stay fresh?

When stored properly, the rolls stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature and about 4-5 days in the fridge.

Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Swap dairy milk, butter, and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives, and use a flax egg or similar egg replacer to keep the rolls vegan-friendly.

Can I prepare the rolls the night before baking?

Yes! After the first rise and rolling, place the sliced rolls in the greased pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking in the morning.

Why is my dough sticky or too dry?

Dough texture can vary depending on humidity and flour type; add flour or milk a tablespoon at a time until the dough feels soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Homemade Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze that brightens any morning with its inviting aroma, the perfect balance of fruity and spiced flavors, and that irresistible gooey texture. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe offers a satisfying and memorable baking experience. So go ahead, make a batch, share the joy, and enjoy every sweet bite!

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