Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, then look no further! These amazing homemade strawberry cinnamon rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. Picture fluffy, doughy rolls, bursting with juicy strawberries and the right amount of cinnamon, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that takes them to the next level. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- Cream cheese frosting (for drizzling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Stir well to incorporate all the dry ingredients.
- In a saucepan, gently heat the whole milk and melted butter until warm but not too hot, about 110°F (43°C).
- Whisk the large egg into the warm milk mixture and pour this into the bowl of dry ingredients.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together, then spread this mixture evenly over the dough.
- Distribute the diced strawberries evenly on top of the cinnamon-sugar layer.
- Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the roll into 12 equal sections.
- Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before drizzling with cream cheese frosting.
Notes or Tips
For the best texture, make sure your milk is warm enough to activate the yeast but not scalding hot. If you don’t have strawberries on hand, feel free to substitute with other berries such as blueberries or raspberries. And don’t skimp on the cream cheese frosting—it adds a rich, creamy finish that complements the cinnamon and strawberries beautifully!
Cooking Techniques
Starting with a simple yeast dough is the key to achieving those fluffy, pillowy rolls. Kneading the dough helps develop gluten, giving the rolls their delightful structure. Allowing the dough to rise properly is essential; this step enhances the final texture and flavor. Rolling the dough tightly ensures that each roll has a delightful swirl of filling, creating that iconic cinnamon roll appearance.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
How should I store leftover rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—simply reheat before serving!
Conclusion
These homemade strawberry cinnamon rolls are sure to bring joy and warmth to your kitchen. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor from the sweet strawberries and the comforting spice of cinnamon. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a sweet treat later in the day, they’re a delicious way to brighten any morning. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a breakfast masterpiece that will make everyone smile!