Strawberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze

Have you ever wondered why store-bought sweet rolls never quite match the heavenly aroma and taste of homemade ones? The secret lies not just in fresh ingredients, but in the love and care that goes into crafting each pillowy roll. These Strawberry Sweet Rolls with Vanilla Cream Cheese Glaze are the perfect weekend treat that combines the tartness of fresh strawberries with a decadent cream cheese topping.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating your family to something special, these sweet rolls deliver an unforgettable experience. The vibrant red swirls of strawberry filling peeking through soft, fluffy dough create a visual masterpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients List

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 3 cups fresh strawberry sweet rolls (hulled and diced)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)

For the Vanilla Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
• Pinch of salt

Substitution options: For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese. Frozen strawberries can work in a pinch (thaw and drain excess liquid first). For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.

Timing

Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus 1 hour 30 minutes for dough rising)

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

While this may seem lengthy, these Strawberry Sweet Rolls with Vanilla Cream Cheese Glaze require 15% less active time than traditional cinnamon rolls. Most of the time is hands-off rising, allowing you to multitask while the yeast works its magic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. This can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk (110°F – warm but not hot) with 1 tablespoon of the sugar and the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and activated. If your mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast might be dead or your milk too hot – start over for best results.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
2. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll and Fill

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle approximately 18×14 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Spread the cooled strawberry filling over the butter. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.

Step 5: Cut and Second Rise

Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes, or until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F during this final rise.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the Strawberry Sweet Rolls with Vanilla Cream Cheese Glaze for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. If they’re browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil halfway through baking. The internal temperature should reach 190°F when fully baked.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and enough milk to achieve your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick yet pourable.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Allow the rolls to cool for 5-10 minutes before spreading the vanilla cream cheese glaze over the warm (not hot) rolls. The residual warmth will help the glaze melt slightly into the crevices for maximum flavor penetration.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 roll):

• Calories: 425
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 230mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 62g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 32g
• Protein: 6g

These sweet rolls provide approximately 15% of your daily calcium needs and 10% of your vitamin C requirements, thanks to the strawberry filling. While indulgent, they offer more nutritional benefits than commercially prepared pastries, which typically contain artificial preservatives and flavors.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version of these delicious rolls, consider these modifications:

• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduce sugar in the filling to 1/3 cup and add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds for omega-3 fatty acids.
• Use Greek yogurt cream cheese for the glaze to increase protein content while reducing fat.
• Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on saturated fat.
• Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the filling for healthy fats and protein.

For those watching their sugar intake, consider using a monk fruit sweetener or erythritol as a 1:1 replacement for sugar in both the filling and glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your strawberry sweet roll experience with these serving ideas:

• Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast to the sweet rolls.
• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad featuring complementary fruits like kiwi and blueberries.
• For brunch, offer with scrambled eggs and turkey bacon for a balanced sweet-and-savory meal.
• Create a dessert version by warming slightly and topping with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

For special occasions, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a decorative platter with fresh strawberries and edible flowers in the center for a stunning centerpiece.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overheating the milk: If milk is too hot (above 115°F), it will kill the yeast. Use a thermometer for precision or test with your finger—it should feel warm, not hot.
2. Under-kneading the dough: Properly kneaded dough should be smooth and elastic. Under-kneaded dough results in dense, heavy rolls.
3. Overfilling the rolls: Too much filling will leak out during baking. Use a thin, even layer for best results.
4. Cutting with a dull knife: This compresses the dough and filling. Use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife for clean cuts.
5. Applying glaze too soon: If rolls are too hot, the glaze will completely melt off. Wait 5-10 minutes after baking.
6. Rushing the rising process: Yeast needs time to work. Rushed rising results in dense, less flavorful rolls.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

These Strawberry Sweet Rolls with Vanilla Cream Cheese Glaze can be enjoyed beyond the day they’re made with proper storage:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cream cheese glaze means they shouldn’t be left out longer.
• Refrigeration: Keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes before glazing.

For make-ahead convenience, prepare the rolls up to the point of the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Conclusion

These homemade Strawberry Sweet Rolls with Vanilla Cream Cheese Glaze transform ordinary breakfast moments into special occasions. The combination of pillowy soft dough, vibrant strawberry filling, and luxurious cream cheese glaze creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Have you tried making these delightful rolls? Share your experience in the comments below! And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our other breakfast pastry creations. Don’t forget to tag us in your social media posts with #StrawberrySweetRolls so we can admire your baking skills!