Strawberry Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

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If you have a sweet tooth and love the smell of fresh baked treats, you are going to adore this Strawberry Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe. These rolls combine the soft, pillowy texture of freshly made dough with the luscious sweetness of strawberry jam and fresh strawberries baked right in. Topped with a silky cream cheese icing that melts perfectly over warm rolls, this recipe is a celebration of flavor and comfort that anyone can make at home. Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, these strawberry rolls never fail to impress with their inviting aroma, vibrant color, and unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Strawberry Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays an essential role in making these rolls irresistible. Every component from the yeast to the fresh strawberries contributes to the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance.

• ½ cup milk: Warm milk activates the yeast and adds moisture to make the dough tender.
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast: This magical ingredient makes the dough rise beautifully and gives it that soft, airy texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and crumb.
• ¼ cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps the yeast ferment.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter or margarine, softened to room temperature: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• 1 egg: Binds the dough together and adds richness and color.
• ¾ cup strawberry jam: Provides a sweet, fruity base layer inside the rolls.
• 1 cup strawberries, fresh and chopped into small pieces: Adds natural freshness, texture, and vibrant color inside every bite.
• ½ cup cream cheese, at room temperature: The star of the icing, it brings creamy tanginess for the perfect finish.
• 3 tablespoons butter, unsalted, softened: Adds smoothness and richness to the icing.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese icing to perfection.

How to Make Strawberry Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Step 1: Activating the Yeast

Start by warming the milk in the microwave for about 30 seconds—just enough to be warm to the touch but not hot. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it gets foamy and bubbly. This is the crucial first step to making the dough rise beautifully.

Step 2: Preparing the Dough

In a stand mixer bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt until well combined. Add the softened butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Use a dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and soft to the touch. This kneading process develops the gluten, giving your rolls a tender yet chewy texture.

Step 3: First Rise

Place your dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm spot until it doubles in size. To speed this up, you can use your oven by setting it to 350°F for one minute, turning it off, and then placing the covered dough inside to rise in the warmth.

Step 4: Preparing the Baking Dish

Butter a 9-inch pie plate or a cast-iron skillet generously. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a nice buttery flavor to the edges as the rolls bake.

Step 5: Rolling Out and Filling the Dough

Turn the risen dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large 18×12 inch rectangle. Spread your strawberry jam evenly across the dough, then sprinkle the chopped fresh strawberries on top. This layering ensures every bite bursts with strawberry goodness.

Step 6: Rolling and Cutting

Starting from the edge farthest from you, roll the dough tightly towards yourself, forming a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal the edge, then cut the roll into 8 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 7: Second Rise

Place each roll snugly into the buttered dish, cover them with plastic wrap, and let them rise again until doubled in size. Use the warm oven method if you want to accelerate the process. This second rise is what gives the rolls their airy fluffiness.

Step 8: Making the Cream Cheese Icing

In a mixer, blend the cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until you get a smooth, creamy consistency. If the icing feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin. This luscious icing will be your grand finale.

Step 9: Baking the Rolls

Bake the rolls at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. You’ll love the sweet aroma filling your kitchen at this point.

Step 10: Final Touch and Serving

Allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes after baking to let them firm up slightly. Then generously drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls so it melts into every crevice.

How to Serve Strawberry Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, consider topping the rolls with a few fresh strawberry slices or a light sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios. The fresh strawberries add a pop of color and freshness, while nuts give a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls and creamy icing.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a simple side of fresh fruit or a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or brunch experience. A dollop of whipped cream on the side adds extra indulgence without overpowering the strawberry flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing dessert platter, arrange the rolls on a beautiful serving tray with small bowls of extra cream cheese icing and strawberry jam. You can also serve them warm in individual ramekins, drizzled with a little more icing just before serving. This presentation makes each guest feel like they’re enjoying a personal sweet treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These strawberry rolls keep really well covered at room temperature for up to two days, which makes them perfect to bake ahead for weekend breakfasts. Make sure to wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep them soft and moist.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these delightful rolls later, you can freeze them before the second rise or after baking. To freeze before the second rise, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight and allow to rise before baking. After baking, wrap the cooled rolls well and freeze for the same duration. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat the rolls in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds. Reapply a little extra cream cheese icing if desired for that just-baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe because frozen strawberries release more moisture, which can make the dough soggy. If you must use frozen, thaw and drain them well before adding.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the icing?

You can substitute mascarpone or Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of powdered sugar for a tangy twist, but traditional cream cheese gives the best classic flavor and texture.

Can I make the dough by hand instead of using a mixer?

Absolutely! Knead the dough on a floured surface by hand for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It’s a great way to connect with the dough and enjoy the process.

How can I tell when the rolls are fully baked?

They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped gently on the bottom. If unsure, use a toothpick: it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the milk isn’t too hot or too cold when activating the yeast. Also, keep the dough in a warm, draft-free environment during rising for best results.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Strawberry Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe enough if you want to create a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Baking these rolls fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma and rewards you with soft, fruity, sweet bites topped by the creamiest icing ever. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just a special treat for yourself, these rolls are sure to become a treasured favorite in your recipe collection. Give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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