Homemade Strawberry Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Burst of Berry Bliss

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If you have a special place in your heart for the sweet, tangy allure of fresh strawberries, then these Strawberry Rolls are an absolute must-try! Prepare yourself for an explosion of pure strawberry flavor, ingeniously infused into every single component of this divine treat. The magic begins with a beautifully fluffy dough, which gets its vibrant berry essence from freeze-dried strawberries. These delightful rolls are then generously filled with a luscious strawberry jam, creating a moist and fruity core, and finally crowned with a velvety, tangy strawberry cream cheese frosting that truly takes them over the top. It’s a symphony of strawberry in every bite!

These strawberry rolls are truly bursting with an unparalleled strawberry flavor! We’ve made sure that the essence of ripe, sweet strawberries is present in every single element of these sweet, tender rolls. To achieve such an intense and authentic berry experience, we’ve incorporated freeze-dried strawberry powder not only into the soft, yielding dough but also into the rich, creamy frosting. This simple yet effective technique truly enhances and brings out all the wonderful, natural strawberry flavors, ensuring that each bite is a celebration of this beloved fruit.

These dreamy, cloud-like rolls are absolutely perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast, a special brunch gathering, or any occasion where you want to impress with a homemade treat. Their vibrant color and irresistible aroma make them a showstopper that will delight friends and family alike.

Craving more irresistible sweet roll recipes? Be sure to explore our other beloved creations like Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls for a cozy indulgence, our rich and buttery Brioche Cinnamon Rolls, or the bright and zesty Lemon Rolls with Lemon Curd for a citrusy twist.

WHY THIS STRAWBERRY ROLLS RECIPE IS A WINNER

• Strawberry-Infused Dough: Unlike typical sweet rolls, our dough is uniquely infused with fine freeze-dried strawberry powder. This brilliant addition means the very foundation of your rolls is packed with an authentic, sweet strawberry burst, giving them a delightful pink hue and an incredible depth of flavor from the inside out.
• Effortless Strawberry Jam Filling: We make the filling process incredibly simple and delicious by using your favorite strawberry jam. There’s no need to spend extra time making a separate fruit filling from scratch. Just pick a high-quality, smooth strawberry jam, and spread it evenly over the dough for a consistently sweet and fruity core in every roll.
• Decadent Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: The crowning glory of these rolls is our rich and creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. This frosting is not just any regular cream cheese topping; it’s elevated with the addition of freeze-dried strawberry powder, resulting in a frosting that’s intensely flavorful, beautifully colored, and perfectly balances the sweetness of the rolls with a tangy, fruity finish. It’s truly an amazing complement to the rolls.

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT NOTES FOR PERFECT STRAWBERRY ROLLS

Understanding your ingredients is key to successful baking. Here are some detailed notes on the key components for this delightful strawberry rolls recipe. For a complete list of all ingredients with precise measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down the page.

• Yeast: Yeast is the leavening agent that gives these rolls their signature fluffy texture. While I typically opt for fresh yeast due to its subtle flavor and consistent results, you can absolutely use active dry yeast or instant yeast as a convenient alternative. If using active dry yeast, remember to “bloom” it first in the warm milk according to package instructions to ensure it’s active and ready to work its magic. Instant yeast can often be mixed directly with the dry ingredients.
• Butter: For the best results in both the dough and the frosting, your butter should be at a perfect room temperature. This means taking it out of the fridge approximately 1-2 hours before you plan to start baking. Room temperature butter creams smoothly, incorporates beautifully into the dough, and yields a tender, rich texture.
• Whole Milk: The milk plays a crucial role in activating the yeast and hydrating the dough. It’s vital to heat the whole milk to a lukewarm temperature, ideally around 37ºC (98-100ºF). This temperature is warm enough to activate the yeast without killing it. Be extremely careful not to overheat the milk, as temperatures that are too hot will deactivate or kill the yeast, preventing your rolls from rising properly.
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These are the secret to intensifying the strawberry flavor throughout your rolls. Freeze-dried strawberries are readily available in most supermarkets, often found in the snack aisle or with other dried fruits. They come either as whole slices or already blended into a powder. If you purchase them in slices, simply blend them in a food processor or a powerful blender until they form a fine powder before adding them to your dough and frosting. This ensures even distribution of flavor and color.
• Cream Cheese: For a flawlessly smooth and lump-free cream cheese frosting, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before you begin mixing. This allows it to combine seamlessly with the butter and powdered sugar, creating a creamy, dreamy texture that’s easy to spread.
• Strawberry Jam: The filling for these rolls relies on your favorite strawberry jam. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity – no need to prepare a complex filling. A smooth strawberry jam works wonderfully, spreading easily and creating a consistent fruity layer. However, if you prefer a bit more texture and actual fruit pieces in your filling, feel free to use a jam that contains small chunks of strawberries.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS: CRAFTING THE PERFECT STRAWBERRY DOUGH

Embark on the journey of creating these exquisite Strawberry Rolls with our detailed step-by-step guide. This recipe is designed for ease and enjoyment, requiring a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook attachment. You’ll also need a 24×34 cm (approximately 9×13 inch) baking tray, which should be thoroughly lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Remember, the full, detailed recipe, including precise measurements and timings, is conveniently located in the recipe card below.

STEP 1: Prepare the Freeze-Dried Strawberries. Begin by ensuring your freeze-dried strawberries are in a fine powder form. If they are in slices or chunks, carefully blend them in a food processor or blender until you achieve a consistent, fine powder. This step is crucial for an even distribution of flavor and color throughout your dough. Once powdered, set them aside.

STEP 2: Activate the Yeast. Gently heat the whole milk until it reaches a lukewarm temperature, ideally around 37ºC (98-100ºF). It should feel comfortably warm, not hot, to the touch. Crumble the fresh yeast directly into the bowl of your stand mixer. Pour the warmed milk over the yeast. Using a spatula, stir the mixture gently until the yeast completely dissolves and blends into the milk. If you’re using active dry yeast, follow the package instructions to let it bloom in the warm milk until foamy, indicating it’s active.

STEP 3: Mix the Dough. To the yeast mixture in the stand mixer, add the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, your prepared freeze-dried strawberry powder, eggs, and salt. Attach the dough hook and begin mixing the dough on a low to medium speed. Continue mixing until all the dry ingredients are fully hydrated and no streaks of dry flour remain in the bowl. Increase the speed to medium and continue mixing for an additional 4 minutes to start developing the gluten. Now, while the mixer is still running on medium speed, gradually add the softened room-temperature butter in two separate parts. Add the second portion of butter only after the first has been completely incorporated into the dough. This stage might look a bit messy and sticky, but don’t worry – it’s completely normal! Once the second part of the butter has been fully incorporated, stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, and then resume mixing for another 8-10 minutes on medium speed. The dough should transform into a smooth, elastic consistency that visibly pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

STEP 4: First Rise (Proofing). Lightly grease a clean, large bowl with a small amount of vegetable oil. Transfer the kneaded dough into this bowl, turning it once to coat it lightly with oil. Cover the bowl securely with plastic wrap, then drape a clean tea towel over it to create a warm, humid environment. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area of your kitchen or home at room temperature. Allow the dough to rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has noticeably doubled in size. For alternative rising options, such as an overnight rise, please consult the FAQ section above for detailed instructions.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS: ASSEMBLING & BAKING YOUR STRAWBERRY ROLLS

STEP 1: Roll and Spread the Dough. Once your dough has completed its first rise and has beautifully doubled in size, gently “punch” the air out of it to deflate it. Lightly flour your clean work surface and transfer the dough onto it. Using a rolling pin, carefully roll the dough into a large, even rectangle, aiming for a thickness of about 5 mm (approximately ¼ inch). Next, take your favorite strawberry jam and, using a spoon or an offset spatula, spread it evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border free along one of the short edges. Once coated, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the opposite short side towards the clear edge, ensuring a snug coil.

STEP 2: Cut the Rolls. To create perfectly shaped rolls, we recommend using a piece of unflavored dental floss or a sturdy thread. Slide the floss/thread underneath the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull firmly to cut through the dough, making clean slices. Alternatively, a sharp serrated bread knife can also be used. Aim to cut 12 evenly sized rolls from your log.

STEP 3: Second Rise & Preheat Oven. Arrange the cut strawberry rolls in your 24×34 cm baking tray, which should already be lined with parchment paper. Ensure there’s a little space between each roll for them to expand. Cover the tray loosely with plastic wrap and a clean tea towel. Let them rise for a second time on your kitchen counter at room temperature for approximately 45 minutes, or until they appear visibly puffy. During this second rise, preheat your oven to 190ºC (375ºF) for a conventional oven setting.

STEP 4: Bake the Rolls. Once the second rise is complete and the oven is preheated, carefully place the baking tray on the second lowest rack in your oven. Bake the strawberry rolls for 22-24 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; if they start to become golden brown too quickly during the last 5 minutes of baking, gently cover the tray with aluminum foil. This prevents excessive browning and ensures the rolls remain soft and moist.

STEP 5: Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting. While your strawberry rolls are cooling slightly (they’re best frosted warm!), it’s time to whip up the irresistible cream cheese icing. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened room-temperature butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, one tablespoon of freeze-dried strawberry powder (for that extra berry kick and beautiful pink hue!), and the vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat all the ingredients together on medium speed for about 1 minute, or until the mixture is perfectly smooth, light, and wonderfully creamy. Avoid overmixing to keep the frosting fluffy.

STEP 6: Frost and Serve. As soon as the strawberry rolls come out of the oven and have cooled just enough to handle – they should still be wonderfully warm – generously spread the freshly made strawberry cream cheese frosting over the top. The warmth of the rolls will slightly melt the frosting, allowing it to seep into every crevice, creating an even more decadent experience. These heavenly Strawberry Rolls are now ready to be enjoyed immediately. Happy baking!

EXPERT BAKING TIPS FOR FLAWLESS STRAWBERRY ROLLS

• Embrace a Kitchen Scale: For unparalleled accuracy in baking, a kitchen scale is your best friend. My recipes, including this one, are developed with grams as the default unit, as it’s the most precise method for measuring ingredients. Using a scale ensures consistent results every single time, avoiding the common pitfalls of volume measurements which can vary wildly. It truly elevates your baking game!
• Avoid Overmixing Your Dough: While kneading is essential for gluten development, overmixing can lead to tough rolls. After all ingredients are combined and you’ve finished the main kneading, I always recommend a final, gentle fold with a spatula. This ensures that any flour or ingredients clinging to the bottom or sides of the mixing bowl are fully incorporated without overworking the dough, resulting in a tender, light texture.
• Choosing the Right Baking Pan: The type of baking pan you use significantly impacts the final outcome of your rolls. For the softest, most evenly baked rolls with a delicate crust, an aluminum baking pan is ideal. Light in color, aluminum pans attract less heat, allowing the rolls to bake more gently and thoroughly. Always grease your pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. In contrast, dark-colored baking pans absorb more heat, which can lead to a darker, tougher crust and potentially a drier roll.
• Room Temperature Ingredients Are Key: Beyond butter and cream cheese, ensuring eggs are at room temperature helps them emulsify better with other ingredients, creating a smoother, more uniform dough and frosting.
• Don’t Rush the Rise: Patience is a virtue when working with yeast dough. Allow your dough to complete both rises fully. A slow, steady rise at the correct temperature results in a more flavorful and tender final product. If your kitchen is cool, consider the oven trick in our FAQ!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT STRAWBERRY ROLLS

STORAGE AND ENJOYMENT OF YOUR STRAWBERRY ROLLS

To maintain their freshness and delightful flavor, store any leftover strawberry rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure they are covered tightly with plastic wrap or in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out. They are best enjoyed within 3-5 days of baking. For optimal taste and texture, leftover rolls can be gently reheated in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm and soft.

Freezing Instructions: If you’d like to extend the life of your strawberry rolls, they freeze wonderfully! Once completely cooled and frosted, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Then, transfer the frozen rolls to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 30 days. To enjoy, simply let the frozen rolls thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour, then microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm and soft. This makes them perfect for a quick breakfast or a spontaneous treat!

Other Sweet Roll Recipes To Try

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Strawberry Rolls

These delightful Strawberry Rolls are bursting with incredible strawberry flavor in every bite. The incredibly fluffy dough is lovingly infused with the essence of strawberries using freeze-dried strawberries, giving it a beautiful hue and fragrant aroma. They are generously filled with sweet strawberry jam, creating a moist, fruity center, and then crowned with a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting for the ultimate indulgence.

5 fra 3 stemmer

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Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 24 minutes mins

Proofing time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 55 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American, European

Servings 12 rolls

Calories 464 kcal

Equipment

• Stand Mixer
• 22x33cm (9in x 13in) sheet pan
• Rolling Pin
• Food Processor or Blender (for freeze-dried strawberries)

Ingredients

 

 

Dough

• 2 tablespoon freeze-dried strawberry powder
• 225 g whole milk
• 30 g fresh yeast or 10 g active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 50 g granulated sugar
• 540 g all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 100 g unsalted butter room temperature

Strawberry Jam Filling

• 200 g strawberry jam smooth or with pieces

Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

• 70 g unsalted butter room temperature
• 140 g cream cheese softened, full-fat recommended
• 140 g powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon freeze-dried strawberry powder
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

DOUGH PREPARATION

• If your freeze-dried strawberries are not already a powder, begin by blending them in a food processor or blender until they reach a fine, consistent powder. Set this aside for later use.
  2 tablespoon freeze-dried strawberry powder
• Warm the whole milk gently until it is lukewarm, specifically around 37ºC (98-100ºF). Crumble the fresh yeast into the bowl of a stand mixer. Pour the warmed milk over the yeast and stir with a spatula until the yeast has completely dissolved. (If using active dry yeast, allow it to bloom in the warm milk for 5-10 minutes until frothy, following package instructions.)
  225 g whole milk, 30 g fresh yeast
• To the yeast mixture, add the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, the reserved freeze-dried strawberry powder, eggs, and salt. Using the dough hook attachment, mix the dough on low-medium speed until all ingredients are thoroughly hydrated and there’s no dry flour visible. Increase the speed to medium and mix for another 4 minutes.
  50 g granulated sugar, 540 g all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon salt
• While the mixer continues on medium speed, gradually add the room-temperature butter in two parts. Wait until the first portion of butter has been completely mixed into the dough before adding the second. The dough might look a bit messy during this stage, but don’t worry, it will come together. Once the second part of butter is fully incorporated, scrape down the sides of the bowl and continue mixing the dough on medium speed for an additional 8-10 minutes. At the end, the dough should be smooth, elastic, and release cleanly from the sides of the bowl.
  100 g unsalted butter
• Transfer the dough to a clean, large bowl that has been lightly greased with a bit of vegetable oil. Turn the dough over once to coat it. Cover the bowl securely with plastic wrap, then drape a tea towel over it. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area at room temperature in your kitchen. Allow the dough to rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. For instructions on an overnight rise, please refer to the FAQ section above.

ASSEMBLING AND BAKING

• After the first rise, gently punch the air out of the dough. On a lightly floured work surface, roll the dough with a rolling pin into a large rectangle, about 5 mm (¼ inch) thick. Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the dough using a spoon or an offset spatula, leaving a small border free on one of the short sides. Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the opposite short side.
  200 g strawberry jam
• Using a piece of unflavored dental floss or a sturdy thread (or a sharp serrated bread knife), cut the log into 12 evenly sized rolls.
• Place the cut rolls into your prepared baking tray, lined with parchment paper, ensuring there is a little space between each roll. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap and a tea towel, and let them rise for a second time on the kitchen counter for approximately 45 minutes, or until visibly puffy.
• Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 190ºC (375ºF) if using a conventional oven.
• After the second rise, bake the rolls on the second lowest rack for 22-24 minutes. If the tops start to brown too quickly during the last 5 minutes of baking, loosely cover the rolls with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and keep them soft.
• Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack while you prepare the frosting.

STRAWBERRY CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

• In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, freeze-dried strawberry powder, and vanilla extract. Beat all the ingredients together with an electric mixer for about 1 minute until the frosting is smooth, light, and creamy.
  70 g unsalted butter, 140 g cream cheese, 140 g powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon freeze-dried strawberry powder, 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Generously spread the delicious strawberry cream cheese frosting over the warm strawberry rolls. They are now perfectly ready to be savored!

Nutrition

Calories: 464kcalCarbohydrates: 69gProtein: 8gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 72mgSodium: 346mgPotassium: 186mgFiber: 2gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 581IUVitamin C: 47mgCalcium: 54mgIron: 3mg

Keyword bread rolls, cream cheese frosting, frosting, strawberry, sweet rolls, berry dessert

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