There’s nothing like warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven, but these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze take it to the next level! The combination of sweet, fruity strawberry filling with the aromatic kick of cinnamon, all topped off with a tangy lemon cream cheese glaze, creates a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The base for a soft, pillowy dough.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast – Helps the dough rise quickly without the need for proofing.
- 1/4 cup sugar – A touch of sweetness for the dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and helps with the dough’s texture.
- 1 egg – Richness and structure for the dough.
- 1/4 cup water – To activate the yeast and mix the dough.
- 3/4 cup milk – Adds moisture for a soft dough.
- 1/3 cup butter, softened – For that irresistible buttery flavor and soft texture.
For the Filling:
- 1 can LUCKY LEAF Premium Strawberry Fruit Filling & Topping – The star of the rolls, with a rich and fruity filling.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon – Adds the cozy, warm spice we all love in cinnamon rolls.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar – A little extra sweetness to enhance the cinnamon and strawberry flavors.
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened – For a rich, creamy base.
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened – Adds a rich, smooth texture to the frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – For the perfect sweetness and smooth consistency.
- 1/4 cup half-and-half – Helps thin the frosting to the perfect drizzle consistency.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice – A tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Zest of one lemon – Adds a bright, fragrant citrus note.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
Instructions
1. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, water, milk, and butter until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough rises, mix together the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Open the strawberry fruit filling and stir gently to break up the fruit and create a spreadable consistency.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
- Spread the strawberry fruit filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the strawberry filling.
- Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
- Slice the roll into 12 even pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, until they puff up and fill the pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Make the Frosting:
- While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, half-and-half, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla, mixing until light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more half-and-half if necessary for a smooth, drizzly glaze.
5. Frost & Serve:
- Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle the lemon cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.
- Serve immediately, or store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
Benefits of Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze
- A Cozy and Unique Flavor Combination:
- These rolls bring together classic cinnamon rolls with the sweet, fruity tang of strawberries and the citrusy brightness of lemon. It’s a flavor profile that’s both comforting and refreshing!
- Made with Real Ingredients:
- The recipe uses simple, real ingredients like butter, eggs, flour, and fresh fruit. It’s a homemade treat that’s free from artificial additives.
- Rich in Flavor and Texture:
- The dough is soft and buttery, while the cinnamon and strawberry filling adds warmth and sweetness. The lemon glaze ties everything together with a tangy, creamy finish that’s impossible to resist.
- Customizable:
- You can easily swap out the strawberry filling for another fruit of your choice—blueberries, raspberries, or even a peach filling would work beautifully!
- Perfect for Special Occasions:
- Whether it’s a weekend breakfast, a holiday treat, or a brunch with friends, these rolls are sure to impress. They’re the perfect balance of indulgent and fresh, making them a crowd-pleaser.
- Bake-Ahead Friendly:
- You can make these rolls in advance, freeze them, and bake them later for a super convenient treat. They also reheat well, so you can enjoy them throughout the week.
Q&A:
Q1: Can I make the dough in advance?
- Yes! You can make the dough the night before. After kneading it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and filling.
Q2: What if I don’t have instant yeast?
- You can use active dry yeast instead. Just activate it by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar for 5-10 minutes until bubbly. Then proceed as usual.
Q3: Can I use a different fruit filling?
- Absolutely! Feel free to swap the strawberry filling for blueberries, raspberries, or any fruit filling you like. You could even use fresh fruit, though canned filling tends to be thicker and easier to work with.
Q4: How can I make the glaze less sweet?
- If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can reduce the powdered sugar or substitute some with honey or maple syrup. Adding more lemon juice will also help balance the sweetness.
Q5: Can I freeze these rolls?
- Yes! You can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Simply place them in a freezer-safe pan, wrap them tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let them rise at room temperature for a few hours, then bake as directed. You can also freeze the baked rolls and reheat them later.
Q6: Can I add more frosting or make it thicker?
- Of course! Feel free to double the frosting recipe if you love extra glaze. To make it thicker, just add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q7: What’s the best way to store leftover rolls?
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat them in the microwave or oven to enjoy them warm.
Pro Tips:
- Letting the dough rest for a second rise after rolling it out can make your rolls even fluffier. Just 30 minutes before baking will give them a soft, pillowy texture.
- Make sure the strawberry filling is spread evenly to ensure every roll has that perfect balance of cinnamon and fruit.
- If your frosting is too thick, thin it out with a little more half-and-half to get the perfect consistency for drizzling.
These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze are an absolute treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, these rolls are guaranteed to impress. Enjoy every bite!