Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls are a delightful treat that combines soft, fluffy dough with a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling, sweet strawberry jam, and fresh strawberries. Topped with a smooth cream cheese icing, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (more or less, as needed)
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup strawberry jam
- 1 cup finely diced fresh strawberries
For the Icing:
- 1/3 cup reserved cream cheese mixture
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Stir in the milk, melted butter, salt, and eggs until well combined.
- Add Flour:
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. You may need slightly more or less flour.
- Knead Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix Cream Cheese:
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Reserve 1/3 cup of this mixture for the icing.
- Prepare Filling:
- Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add Strawberry Jam:
- Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Add Fresh Strawberries:
- Sprinkle the finely diced fresh strawberries evenly over the jam.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Roll Dough:
- Roll out the risen dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread Filling:
- Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture, strawberry jam, and fresh strawberries evenly over the dough.
- Roll Up:
- Starting from the long side, carefully roll up the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut Rolls:
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12-15 equal pieces.
- Second Rise:
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake:
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Icing
- Mix Icing:
- In a small bowl, combine the reserved cream cheese mixture, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
- Frost Rolls:
- Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling the cream cheese icing over the top.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls warm or at room temperature. Enjoy these sweet and tangy treats with your family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Dough: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Add more flour as needed during kneading to achieve the right consistency.
- Filling: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily.
- Icing: Adjust the thickness of the icing by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency or more milk for a thinner drizzle.
Variations
Lemon Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls
- Add Lemon:
- Add the zest of one lemon to the cream cheese filling for a bright citrus flavor.
Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls
- Add Chocolate:
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the strawberry jam layer for a chocolatey twist.
Nutty Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls
- Add Nuts:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, over the strawberry jam layer for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Fruit:
- Serve with a fresh fruit salad or a side of berries for a light accompaniment.
- With Coffee:
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Beverages
- With Milk:
- Enjoy with a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
- With Sparkling Water:
- Serve with a glass of sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of the second rise and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the rolls? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls. Let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use other types of fruit? A: Yes, you can substitute the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
Q: Can I use a different type of icing? A: Yes, you can use a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk, or a lemon glaze for a different flavor.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls are a sweet and tangy delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With their soft, fluffy dough, rich cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry flavor, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this treat is simple to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls with your family and friends!
