Name: Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup butter (1 stick, or 4 oz.); 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 (.25 ounce) package instant yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoons); 1/4 cup white sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg; 1/2 batch of Strawberry Compote; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 2 tablespoons softened butter; 4 oz cream cheese; 2 tablespoons strawberry compote; 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar (depending on desired sweetness); Heavy cream or milk as needed to thin icing

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 252 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth that craves something both fruity and comforting, you have to try this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. It takes the classic cinnamon roll we all adore and gives it a vibrant twist with luscious strawberry compote and a tangy cream cheese frosting that’s simply irresistible. Each bite bursts with warm cinnamon, zesty lemon hints, and fresh strawberry goodness, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dessert. Trust me, once you try these strawberry cinnamon rolls, they’ll become your new favorite treat to bake and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl in the back is filled with white flour and has a whisk inside. To the left is a clear measuring cup holding melted butter and milk, showing light yellow and white layers. In the middle, a small clear bowl contains one brown egg. Next to it is another tiny clear bowl filled with dry yeast, pale beige in color. In the front on the right, a small clear bowl holds bright red sliced strawberries, and behind it is a glass jar filled with chunky red strawberry jam with a metal spoon inside. All items are set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. From the tender milk-infused dough to the fresh strawberry compote that brings a natural sweetness and a pop of color, each component combines to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Softened butter: Adds richness to both the dough and the frosting for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Cream cheese: Gives the frosting a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Strawberry compote: The star ingredient, offering juicy sweetness and vibrant color inside the rolls.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to your liking and provides a silky texture.
Heavy cream or milk: Used to thin the icing so it’s perfectly spreadable.
Milk: Warmed to help activate the yeast and create a soft, tender dough.
Instant yeast: Ensures the dough rises beautifully, making the rolls light and fluffy.
All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving structure and chewiness.
White sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough to complement the strawberries and cinnamon.
Lemon zest: Adds a refreshing, citrusy brightness that lifts the whole recipe.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Egg: Provides richness and helps bind the dough together.
Cinnamon (optional): Sprinkled on the compote for a warm spice kick that takes the rolls to the next level.

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by heating the milk in a small saucepan until it just bubbles—this warms it enough to activate the yeast without killing it. Stir in the butter until melted, then let this mixture cool until it’s lukewarm, perfect for mixing. Combining warm milk with butter results in that soft, tender crumb you want in a cinnamon roll.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Form Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Adding lemon zest here is a little secret to infuse the dough with a subtle citrus flavor that brightens the whole roll. Mix in the egg and the milk-butter mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually add the remaining flour, stirring after each addition, until the dough just comes together.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you prefer. When it springs back lightly to your touch, it’s ready. A well-kneaded dough means soft, fluffy rolls every time.

Step 4: Rest and Rise

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes. This short rest relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 5: Roll Out and Add Filling

Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12×9 inch rectangle, perfect for your 9×13 baking dish. Spread a generous layer of strawberry compote evenly over the dough, right to the edges. If you like, sprinkle cinnamon on top for that classic warm spice twist, enhancing the whole strawberry experience.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Slice the dough into 12 equal strips using a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Roll each strip into a tight spiral and place them in your baking pan side-by-side. This step not only looks impressive but ensures every bite has the perfect swirl of strawberry and cinnamon.

Step 7: Let the Rolls Rise Again

Cover the pan and let the rolls rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake the rolls for 23-25 minutes until beautifully golden. The smell of fresh baked cinnamon and strawberries filling your kitchen is simply heavenly. Let them cool for 10 minutes before frosting—that small wait is worth it!

Step 9: Make and Apply the Frosting

Whip together softened butter and cream cheese until silky smooth. Add strawberry compote and powdered sugar slowly, beating until creamy and spreadable. Thin with heavy cream or milk if needed. Spread generously on the warm rolls and garnish with fresh strawberry slices if you like for that extra fresh burst of flavor and a stunning finish.

How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A soft, spiral-shaped cinnamon roll with three visible layers is shown on a white plate. The bottom layer is light golden and fluffy bread, the middle layer is a deep red fruit jam, and the top layer is a thick, glossy light pink icing that covers the roll unevenly. Part of the roll is missing, showing the soft inside. A fork near the roll has bits of icing and jam on it. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh strawberry slices make the perfect garnish for these rolls, adding vibrancy and a fresh taste that contrasts beautifully with the sweet glaze. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped mint can also freshen up each bite and elevate your presentation.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine on their own but also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a brunch spread, consider serving them alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon, balancing out sweetness with savory bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your strawberry cinnamon rolls in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation. You can also layer them in a glass trifle dish with whipped cream and fresh berries for a stunning dessert display. The eye-catching swirls and red hue make them party-ready.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keep the frosting separate if possible to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy. Gently warm them before serving for that freshly baked taste.

Freezing

If you want to prepare for later, freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them but before the second rise. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, let them rise until doubled, and bake as usual.

Reheating

To reheat baked rolls, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. For a quick option, microwave for 20-30 seconds, then add fresh frosting or a dab of butter to refresh that bakery-fresh feel.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or a mixture of softened butter and powdered sugar for a different but delicious frosting texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of strawberry compote?

If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use store-bought strawberry jam or even raspberry compote for a similar fruity sweetness.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Absolutely! The first rise builds flavor and develops gluten, while the second rise after shaping ensures the rolls are light, fluffy, and perfectly tender once baked.

Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even white chocolate chips sprinkled on the rolls before baking add wonderful texture and flavor.

How sweet are these cinnamon rolls?

The sweetness level is balanced with fresh fruit and a creamy frosting that you can adjust by adding more or less powdered sugar, so feel free to tailor it to your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is one of those treats that brings warmth and joy to any table. The combination of fluffy dough, sweet strawberry filling, and luscious cream cheese frosting creates a memorable experience you’ll want to share again and again. Whether for a special occasion or just a weekend indulgence, give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!