Strawberry Rolls

Strawberry Rolls are a delightful treat that can brighten up any occasion. These rolls combine the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a soft, fluffy dough. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they are sure to impress your family and friends. With their lovely strawberry filling and creamy frosting, they stand out as a delicious option that’s easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Occasion: Enjoy Strawberry Rolls for breakfast, as a snack, or at gatherings—perfect for any time of day.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Homemade Goodness: Experience the joy of baking from scratch with fresh strawberries and warm dough right from your oven.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling or frosting to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Strawberry Rolls, gather the essential tools that will help you create these delicious treats.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Potato masher
• Rolling pin
• Offset spatula
• Pizza cutter
• 9×13 pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading dough easier and saves time compared to hand mixing.
• Saucepan: Perfect for cooking down the strawberry filling to achieve the right consistency.
• Offset spatula: Helps spread the filling evenly across the dough without tearing it.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup Whole milk (warmed, 105°-110°)
• 2 1/4 tsp Active dry yeast
• 1/4 tsp Sugar (to activate the yeast)
• 6 tbsp Unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large Eggs (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup White granulated sugar
• 4 cups All purpose flour (spooned and leveled. If too sticky add a couple extra tablespoons at a time)
• 1 tsp Salt

For the Strawberry Filling

• 2 cups Fresh strawberries (washed, hulled and sliced)
• 1 tsp Fresh lemon juice
• 1/3 cup White granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp Water
• 2 tbsp Cornstarch

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz Cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tbsp Butter (softened)
• 1 cup Powdered sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp Whole milk

How to Make Strawberry Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, stir together warm milk, yeast, and 1/4 tsp sugar. Let it stand until bubbly, about 10 minutes.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, add eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture.
3. Next, add flour, sugar, and salt to wet ingredients.
4. Using a dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until dough begins to form.
5. Increase speed to medium and knead for 5 minutes.
6. Spray a large bowl with nonstick spray; place dough inside. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook until the mixture begins to simmer. Use a potato masher to help mash the berries as they cook.
3. Stir together water and cornstarch to create a slurry; pour into the strawberries.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until very thick; refrigerate until completely cool.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. Place dough onto a lightly floured surface; roll into a 14×18 rectangle about ¼ thick.
2. Spread an even layer of cooled strawberry filling all over the dough using an offset spatula.
3. Cut dough into 12 strips using a pizza cutter; roll each strip away from you carefully.
4. Place rolls into a lightly greased 9×13 pan; loosely cover them and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

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

Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and lemon zest.
2. Using a handheld mixer, beat until smooth; stir in milk until combined.
3. Spoon frosting onto warm rolls and spread with an offset spatula.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Rolls! These treats are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with loved ones at any gathering or special meal!

How to Serve Strawberry Rolls

Strawberry rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture to the rich flavors of strawberry rolls. Simply whip some heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form for a perfect pairing.

Topped with Sliced Almonds

• Adding sliced almonds gives a nice crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. Sprinkle them on top right before serving for an extra touch.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• For an indulgent dessert, serve warm strawberry rolls alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the warm rolls, creating a delicious combination.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce can enhance the sweetness of your rolls. Use dark or milk chocolate based on your preference for a decadent finish.

How to Perfect Strawberry Rolls

Creating the perfect strawberry rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Make sure your strawberries are ripe and flavorful. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste.
• Check Yeast Activity – Before starting, ensure your yeast is active by testing it in warm milk with sugar. It should become bubbly within 10 minutes.
• Knead Properly – Kneading the dough for the right amount of time helps develop gluten, leading to fluffy rolls. Aim for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
• Don’t Rush Rising – Allow the dough plenty of time to rise until doubled in size. This is crucial for achieving soft, airy rolls.
• Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. They should be golden brown but not overcooked; check at 25 minutes.
• Experiment with Fillings – While strawberry jam is delicious, feel free to get creative! Try other fruits or even flavored creams for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your strawberry rolls can enhance their flavor and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that complements the flavors.
3. Crisp Green Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a light balance against rich strawberry rolls.
4. Savory Cheese Board – Include various cheeses, crackers, and nuts for an elegant side that pairs well with sweet flavors.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and earthiness, creating a nice counterpoint to sweet treats.
6. Herbed Biscotti – These crunchy cookies provide a different texture while remaining subtly flavored to complement the sweet rolls.
7. Minted Peas – Lightly seasoned peas offer bright color and freshness that enhances your meal’s overall presentation.
8. Honey Butter Biscuits – Soft biscuits drizzled with honey butter create another layer of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with strawberry rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Rolls can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your success.

• Failing to Activate Yeast: If the yeast isn’t bubbly after mixing with warm milk and sugar, it won’t rise properly. Always check the temperature of the milk and wait for bubbles before proceeding.
• Overworking the Dough: Kneading the dough for too long can make it tough. Aim for about 5 minutes until smooth, then let it rise until doubled in size.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can lead to dense rolls. Always spoon and level flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Skipping the Cooling Process: Allowing the strawberry filling to cool completely is crucial. If it’s too warm, it can make your dough soggy.
• Not Letting Rolls Rise Properly: Rushing through the rising time can yield flat rolls. Make sure they double in size before baking for fluffy results.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Strawberry Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are sealed well to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Strawberry Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Strawberry Rolls.

How do I know if my Strawberry Rolls are baked properly?

You can tell if your Strawberry Rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw them beforehand and drain excess liquid before cooking.

What variations can I try with Strawberry Rolls?

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like blueberries or raspberries, or add spices such as cinnamon for a unique flavor twist.

Are Strawberry Rolls suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! These rolls make a perfect breakfast treat or brunch option due to their sweet flavor and soft texture.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Rolls?

Leftover rolls should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fruits or spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!