Introduction to Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche
There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of fresh-baked goods wafting through the house. Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche are not only delightful to taste but they also create those cherished moments for your family. As a busy mom, I know how tough mornings can be, and this recipe is a quick solution for a hectic day. With a soft, buttery brioche base, sweet strawberry filling, and creamy glaze, these rolls are bound to win hearts. Trust me; they’ll impress everyone—whether it’s a casual weekend brunch or a special occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche
These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche are a game-changer in the kitchen! Not only are they easy to make, but they also bring incredible flavor to your breakfast table. The soft, pillowy texture of brioche is perfectly complemented by the sweet, luscious strawberry filling. You can whip them up in just a few hours, making them a delightful treat for busy mornings or weekend gatherings. Plus, they’re sure to put a smile on everyone’s face!
Ingredients for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche
Creating these delicious Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche begins with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Warm Milk: This activates the yeast, creating a fluffy texture. Ensure it’s warm, like a cozy hug, not hot.
- Instant Dry Yeast: This is your magic ingredient for raising the dough. It makes everything rise and shine!
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your dough. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and the filling. You might try coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the dough’s flavor and balances sweetness.
- Large Egg: Eggs add richness, creating a tender brioche. If you’re vegan, substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
- Unsalted Butter: Bring on the buttery goodness! Use very soft butter for easy mixing; you can replace it with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil.
- Fresh or Frozen Strawberries: The star of this recipe! Fresh berries offer bright flavor, while frozen ones work just as well in a pinch.
- Lemon Juice: Brings brightness to the berry flavor, making it pop. Plus, it’s a kitchen staple!
- Cream Cheese: This is for your decadent glaze. You can use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens up the glaze to a delightful finish. You can customize it with flavored extracts, like almond.
- Vanilla Extract: A must-have for flavor depth. Use pure vanilla for the best taste!
- Strawberry Puree: Set aside a bit from your filling for the glaze. It adds a lovely color and extra strawberry essence!
Exact measurements for these ingredients are provided at the bottom of this article, and they’re also available for printing. So, don’t worry—you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips!
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche
Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Filling
First, let’s get that scrumptious filling started. In a saucepan, combine fresh or frozen strawberries with lemon juice and sugar. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to bubble and thicken to a jam-like consistency. Once it’s done cooking, blend it until smooth. Don’t forget to cool it in the fridge after. Reserve a couple of tablespoons for the glaze later—trust me, it’s worth it!
Step 2: Prepare Dough
Now, time to whip up that soft and fluffy brioche dough! In your stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix everything together briefly to combine. Gradually add the warm milk, softened butter, and the egg. Knead the dough on medium speed for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s nice and smooth. You should feel it become elastic and soft under your fingers. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot. It should double in size, which usually takes about 2 hours. Hello, cute little dough!
Step 3: Shape Rolls
Once your dough has risen beautifully, it’s time to shape those rolls! Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle, around 16 by 12 inches. Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly, leaving space on one long edge. Now, roll the dough tightly from the opposite edge. This is where the magic happens! Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. It’s like slicing pillows of sweetness, just imagine how delightful these will be!
Step 4: Second Rise
Next, arrange your rolls in a greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Make sure to leave some space between them. Cover with a towel and let them rise again for 30 to 60 minutes, until puffy and ready to bake. Can you smell that sweet anticipation?
Step 5: Bake Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake those lovely rolls for about 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown on top and set in the center. A little warmth from the oven makes the kitchen feel cozy!
Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze
While your rolls are baking, it’s time to prepare that luscious cream cheese glaze! In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and reserved strawberry puree until it’s smooth and creamy. If you want it thinner, add a splash of milk, one teaspoon at a time.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once the rolls are slightly cool, generously spread the glaze over them. Serve these sweet beauties warm for the best texture. Everyone will love the way the glaze drips down each roll, making them look as irresistible as they taste!
Tips for Success
- Always use warm milk—not hot—to activate the yeast effectively.
- Proof your yeast beforehand by mixing it with warm milk and sugar; it should get bubbly.
- Let dough rise in a warm area; I turn my oven on low for a few minutes, then turn it off.
- Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the rolls for clean edges.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; they taste wonderful even the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Stand Mixer: Perfect for kneading dough, but you can use a mixing bowl and your hands if needed.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out your dough; alternatively, you can use a wine bottle.
- Baking Dish: A 9 x 13 inch dish works best; any similar-sized dish will do.
- saucepan: Use this for cooking your strawberry filling; a skillet works as well.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Easy accuracy is vital; eyeballing can be fun, but stick to exactness here!
Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Rolls: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist. Chocolate and strawberries are a match made in heaven!
- Nutty Brioche Rolls: Toss in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and richness. They bring a delightful surprise to each bite!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure you have a blend made for baking to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Berry Medley: Mix in raspberries or blueberries along with strawberries for a vibrant fruit medley. It adds flavor and beautiful color!
- Maple Glaze: Replace the cream cheese glaze with a simple maple syrup drizzle. It’s a lighter option that pairs wonderfully with the berry flavor.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, coconut oil, and dairy-free cream cheese to adapt this recipe for a vegan delight.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully, enhancing the sweet flavors.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.
- Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar for a charming finish or garnish with fresh mint leaves.
- Yogurt: A scoop of vanilla yogurt adds creaminess and a delightful tang that complements the sweetness.
- Brunch Spread: Include these rolls in a brunch spread with quiche and fruit salads for a delightful feast!
FAQs about Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche
Can I make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. In the morning, take it out, let it warm up, and proceed with shaping and the second rise. A perfect time-saver for busy mornings!
Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Yes, frozen strawberries work wonderfully in this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking. They will still create that delicious jam-like filling.
How should I store the leftover Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls?
You can store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, pop them in the fridge, but they’re best enjoyed within the first couple of days!
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the glaze?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a deliciously creamy glaze without the extra fat!
Can I freeze the rolls after baking?
Indeed! Once baked and cooled, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste anytime!
Final Thoughts
Making Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. The joy of watching my family’s faces light up as they indulge in these fluffy, sweet rolls is priceless. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, from the warm brioche to the luscious strawberry filling. This recipe is not just a treat; it’s a way to bring loved ones together. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy morning, these rolls will leave everyone with smiles and full hearts. Happy baking!
Print
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Brioche
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously sweet Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls made with a soft brioche dough and topped with creamy glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (105-110°F)
- 1 tbsp instant dry yeast
- 4¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, very soft
- 1¾ cups fresh or frozen strawberries
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- Juice of half a lemon
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for glaze)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp strawberry puree (reserved from filling), cold
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberry Filling: Combine strawberries, lemon juice, and ¼ cup sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens to jam-like consistency. Blend until completely smooth and refrigerate until fully cooled. Reserve 2 tablespoons of puree for the glaze.
- Prepare Dough: In stand mixer bowl, combine flour, ⅓ cup sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix briefly to distribute. Add warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in warm location for approximately 2 hours, or until doubled in volume.
- Shape Rolls: On lightly floured surface, roll dough into 16 x 12 inch rectangle. Spread cooled strawberry filling evenly over dough surface, leaving border on one long edge. Roll tightly from opposite edge. Cut into 12 equal rolls.
- Second Rise: Arrange rolls in greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish, leaving space between each roll. Cover and let rise for 30-60 minutes until puffy and visibly expanded.
- Bake Rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and set in center. Allow to cool slightly in baking dish before glazing.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze: Beat cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and reserved strawberry puree until smooth and creamy. For thinner consistency, add additional milk 1 teaspoon at a time.
- Finish and Serve: Spread glaze generously over slightly warm rolls. Serve immediately while still slightly warm for best texture.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
- Use fresh strawberries if possible for a fresher taste.
- Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
