Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

Soft, fluffy, and bursting with sweet strawberry filling, these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or a cozy weekend treat, these rolls are topped with a tangy lemon cream cheese glaze that adds brightness to every bite. The combination of strawberries and cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberries and warm cinnamon makes these rolls a standout treat.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these rolls without any fuss.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as a breakfast option or dessert; they fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Fun for Everyone: Get the whole family involved in making and assembling these rolls—it’s a great way to spend time together.
• Gorgeous Presentation: These rolls look stunning when served warm, especially with the vibrant lemon glaze.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand to make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Dough scraper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without creating a mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness for the dough, crucial for uniform cooking.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and easy transportation from oven to table.

Ingredients

For the Dough
* 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
* 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
* ⅓ cup granulated sugar
* ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
* 2 large eggs, room temperature
* 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
* 1 teaspoon salt

For the Strawberry Filling
* 1 ½ cups strawberry preserves or jam
* 1 cup diced fresh strawberries (optional, for extra fruitiness)
* 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest
* Pinch of salt

How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Whisk in sugar, melted butter, and eggs.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, stir together strawberry preserves, diced strawberries (if using), cinnamon, and sugar.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
2. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the dough while leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
4. Slice into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt; mix until creamy.
3. Spread glaze over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own!

How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls can be paired with different accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

Enjoy with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside a bowl of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the sweet and tangy flavors perfectly, enhancing your morning routine.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• For a decadent dessert, top a warm cinnamon roll with vanilla or lemon sorbet ice cream. The combination of hot and cold is delightful!

Drizzle Extra Glaze

• Offer additional lemon cream cheese glaze on the side for those who love an extra sweet touch.

Serve Warm

• These rolls are best enjoyed warm straight from the oven. Consider warming individual servings in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

Perfecting your Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your rolls turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to help create a smooth dough that rises well.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough thoroughly for 6–8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, which is key for fluffy rolls.
• Let Dough Rise in a Warm Place: For optimal rising, place your dough in a warm environment like an oven set to low heat or near a sunny window.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s properly calibrated. Baking at the correct temperature is crucial for golden brown rolls.
• Don’t Skip the Glaze: The lemon cream cheese glaze adds brightness and moisture, making each bite irresistible. Don’t skip this step!

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

To create a well-rounded meal experience, consider pairing these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for added texture and nutrition.
2. Fruit Salad
   A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make this dish more hearty for breakfast or brunch.
4. Smoothie Bowl
   Blend up your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts or seeds for added crunch.
5. Oven-Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying savory contrast to sweet cinnamon rolls.
6. Cottage Cheese
   A bowl of cottage cheese topped with pineapple or berries adds creaminess and protein, enhancing your meal’s nutrition profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze, it’s easy to overlook key details. Here are some common mistakes and tips to help you get it right.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better dough consistency. Cold ingredients can lead to dense rolls.
• Not letting the dough rise enough: Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size. If you skip this step, your rolls will be tough instead of fluffy.
• Skipping the glaze: The lemon cream cheese glaze is what truly elevates these rolls. Don’t skip it; it adds a tangy sweetness that balances the strawberry filling.
• Overbaking the rolls: Keep an eye on them in the oven! Overbaking can dry out your rolls, so remove them as soon as they are golden brown.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is scientific—measure your ingredients precisely. Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture of your rolls.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a covered pan on low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile while keeping the cinnamon flavor intact.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel puffy when gently pressed. If it springs back quickly, it needs more time.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before and let them rise overnight in the fridge.

What is the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days.

How can I enhance the flavor of my glaze?

Feel free to add more lemon zest or even a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor depth in your glaze.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by using different fruits or adding nuts. Perfect for brunch or a sweet treat any day, these rolls are sure to please everyone at your table!