Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls: A Fruity Twist on a Classic Favorite

There’s something undeniably comforting about cinnamon rolls—the fluffy dough, the warm spices, the sticky-sweet glaze. But what if you could take all of that and make it even more irresistible? Enter these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful spin on the classic treat that’s bursting with fresh fruit flavor and finished with a zesty lemon glaze. This vegan-friendly version keeps all the indulgence while offering a lighter, fresher profile thanks to the juicy strawberries and citrusy topping.

Perfect for brunches, holiday mornings, or just because you’re in the mood to treat yourself, these rolls offer a balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced notes in every bite. The dough is pillowy-soft, the filling is fruity and fragrant, and the glaze ties it all together with a refreshing kick. Plus, this recipe is made with plant-based ingredients, so everyone at your table can dig in with joy. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and sure to become a seasonal favorite. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making (and eating) these Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination: The pairing of strawberries and cinnamon creates a fruity, spiced filling that’s both fresh and comforting.
2. Vegan-Friendly: No eggs or dairy are used, making this recipe suitable for plant-based diets without compromising on taste or texture.
3. Soft and Fluffy Texture: The enriched dough bakes into light, airy rolls that melt in your mouth.
4. Perfect for Special Occasions: These rolls are impressive enough for guests but simple enough for a weekend treat.
5. Bright, Citrusy Glaze: The lemon glaze adds a zing that balances the sweetness and enhances the strawberry flavor.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• Bread flour
• Vegan cane sugar
• Instant yeast
• Salt
• Vegan butter, softened
• Dairy-free milk, warmed

For the Filling

• Fresh strawberries, diced
• Vegan cane sugar
• Cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• Cinnamon

For the Lemon Glaze

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice

Variations

• Berry Swap: Use raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries for a different fruity twist.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Substitute the lemon glaze with a vegan cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
• Nutty Additions: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for texture and flavor depth.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon for a spicier aroma.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeasted doughs, though texture may vary.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the softened vegan butter and warmed dairy-free milk. Mix until a dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes). Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix the diced strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside to allow the mixture to macerate and thicken slightly.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the strawberry filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border.

Step 4: Roll Up and Slice

Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Slice into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for about 30–45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and the centers are cooked through.

Step 6: Glaze

While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to form a glaze. Drizzle over the warm rolls before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Ensure your milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
• Don’t overfill the rolls, or the filling may leak during baking.
• Use parchment paper under the rolls to help with clean-up.
• Allow rolls to cool slightly before glazing to avoid melting the icing too much.
• For best results, use bread flour to achieve a chewier, fluffier roll.

How to Serve

Serve these strawberry cinnamon rolls warm, straight from the oven, with a generous drizzle of lemon glaze. Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of almond milk for a comforting breakfast or dessert. Garnish with extra fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze unglazed rolls individually in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Add fresh glaze after reheating for best flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate overnight before shaping and baking the next day.

3. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, though the texture will be slightly less chewy and fluffy.

4. Is there a substitute for vegan butter?

Coconut oil (solid, not melted) can work, but it will slightly change the flavor and texture.

5. Do I need a stand mixer for this recipe?

No, the dough can be kneaded by hand—it just requires a bit more effort.

6. Can I skip the lemon glaze?

Yes, though it adds a nice brightness. You can use a different glaze or frosting of your choice.

7. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

They should be golden on top, and the center rolls should no longer feel doughy when lightly pressed.

8. Why did my rolls turn out dense?

This could be due to under-proofing, old yeast, or not enough kneading.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, but use a gluten-free flour mix formulated for yeast baking, and expect some texture differences.

10. How can I make these more decadent?

Add a layer of vegan cream cheese beneath the filling or top with a rich cream cheese glaze.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are a fun, fruity twist on a beloved classic, perfect for spring and summer gatherings or anytime you crave something cozy with a fresh spin. With their soft, fluffy dough, vibrant filling, and zesty glaze, these rolls are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Easy to adapt and a joy to bake, they’re a beautiful way to brighten any table and bring smiles to everyone who takes a bite.

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