ADVERTISEMENT
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the flour mixture.
- Use a wooden spoon or dough hook to mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Then knead the dough for 5-7 minutes by hand or in a stand mixer with a dough hook, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the strawberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. It should be thick and spreadable.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 12×18 inches in size.
- Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Shape the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside.
- Slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Place the cinnamon rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized pan, leaving a little space between each roll.
5. Second Rise:
- Cover the pan with a towel or plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they have puffed up and expanded.
6. Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. If the tops are browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
7. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese glaze by beating together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
8. Glaze the Rolls:
- Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls. The glaze will melt into the rolls, creating a creamy, delicious topping.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the strawberry and cream cinnamon rolls warm, and enjoy the soft, fruity, and creamy layers!
Tips:
- Strawberry Filling Variations: You can add some chopped white chocolate or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling for a unique twist.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the rolls the night before. After assembling, cover and refrigerate them overnight, then bake in the morning.
- For Extra Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spiced note to complement the strawberries.
These Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough, sweet strawberry filling, and creamy glaze. They’ll be a hit at any brunch, breakfast, or special occasion! 🍓🍰
ADVERTISEMENT