Fluffy cinnamon rolls get a fruity twist with a luscious strawberry jam filling and a sweet glaze. These soft, gooey rolls are perfect for brunch, special occasions, or when you’re craving a bakery-style treat at home. With a balance of warm cinnamon and fresh strawberry flavor, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy texture – Homemade dough that bakes up light and airy.
- Fruity cinnamon roll twist – Sweet strawberry jam adds a burst of fresh flavor.
- Perfect for brunch or dessert – A great make-ahead treat for any occasion.
- Easy-to-make dough – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
- Irresistible glaze – A sweet finishing touch that makes these rolls extra special.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Instant yeast
- Salt
- Warm milk
- Butter, melted
- Egg
For the Strawberry Filling:
- Strawberry jam (store-bought or homemade)
- Cinnamon
- Brown sugar
- Butter, softened
For the Glaze:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk or heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- Activate the Yeast – In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough – Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough – Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Let it Rise – Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Filling – In a bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Roll Out the Dough – Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
- Spread the Filling – Evenly spread the butter mixture over the dough, then add a layer of strawberry jam.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Roll and Slice – Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise – Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake – Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Glaze & Serve
- Whisk the Glaze – Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle Over Warm Rolls – Pour over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Cream Cheese Glaze – Swap vanilla glaze for cream cheese frosting.
- Lemon Twist – Add lemon zest to the glaze for a bright citrus flavor.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the filling.
- Mixed Berry Swirl – Use a combination of raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry jam.
- Chocolate Strawberry Rolls – Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.
What’s the best way to roll out the dough evenly?
Use a lightly floured surface and a rolling pin, rolling from the center out.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of jam?
Yes! Mash fresh strawberries with sugar for a homemade fruit spread.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
Use just enough jam to coat the dough without overfilling.
Can I make these without yeast?
No, yeast is essential for the soft, fluffy texture.
What’s the best way to cut the rolls?
Use unflavored dental floss for clean, even slices.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser. Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balance.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
Add more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.
Can I add extra cinnamon?
Absolutely! Increase the cinnamon to 1 ½ teaspoons for a bolder flavor.
What can I serve these with?
Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a perfect treat.
Conclusion
Strawberry Swirl Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of strawberries. Whether for a special brunch or a cozy weekend treat, these fluffy rolls are sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy every gooey, fruit-filled bite!
Print
Strawberry Swirl Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls get a fruity twist with a luscious strawberry jam filling and a sweet glaze. These soft, buttery rolls are perfect for brunch, holidays, or a special treat—as beautiful as they are delicious!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
. Make the Dough
- In a small bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Assemble the Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread strawberry jam evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with lemon zest and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side and slice into 12 rolls.
3. Second Rise & Bake
- Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Make the Glaze & Serve
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls and serve!
Notes
- Want extra gooey rolls? Spread softened butter over the dough before adding the jam.
- Make-ahead tip: Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning!
- For a tangy twist, replace half the jam with cream cheese filling.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American