As I stood in my kitchen surrounded by vibrant fresh strawberries, I couldn’t help but let my imagination run wild. The thought of combining the nostalgic taste of strawberry shortcake with the cozy goodness of cinnamon rolls felt like a delicious dream. This Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls recipe transformed my sunny afternoon into a culinary adventure, blending light, buttery dough with the sweet tang of strawberries and a hint of cream cheese.
Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a last-minute dessert for an unexpected guest, these rolls bring joy with every swirl and bite. Each roll you pull apart reveals layers of strawberry goodness, making them not only a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours—a real win for those who love homemade flavors but don’t want the hassle of complicated recipes. So, grab some strawberries and let’s dive into this delightful treat!
Why are Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet, juicy strawberries paired with creamy cheese create a flavor explosion that’s unforgettable.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 43 minutes, you’ll be enjoying these delicious rolls in no time!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, these rolls will impress!
Visual Delight: The vibrant layers of strawberries against the soft, fluffy dough make for a stunning presentation.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even a novice baker can succeed!
Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Strawberry Filling
• Fresh strawberries – hulled and sliced to capture that sweet, juicy flavor you love.
• Granulated sugar – sets the stage for perfectly sweetening the strawberries.
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – forms the base of your soft and fluffy rolls.
• Baking powder – ensures your rolls rise beautifully, creating a light texture.
• Baking soda – balances the acidity of buttermilk for extra fluffiness.
• Cinnamon – adds a warm spice that complements the sweet strawberries.
• Unsalted butter – cold and grated; this provides a rich, buttery flavor in every bite.
• Buttermilk – tenderizes the dough, adding moisture and richness.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Cream cheese – softened, it adds a tangy richness that pairs divine with strawberries.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cream cheese mixture for that delightful contrast.
For the Whipped Cream Topping
• Heavy cream – whipped to perfection for a light and airy topping.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the flavor of the whipped cream and adds a comforting aroma.
• Kosher salt – just a pinch, it balances the sweetness of the cream and highlights the flavors.
Optional Topping
• Strawberry jam – adds an extra layer of strawberry goodness for those who can’t get enough.
• Diced strawberries – use these on top as a fresh garnish for a pop of color and flavor!
Dive into the perfect blend of flavors with these Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls, and enjoy every delightful bite!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), creating the perfect environment for baking your delicious rolls. This ensures they come out warm and golden brown!
- Mix Strawberries: In a bowl, toss the hulled and sliced strawberries with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes; this will draw out their sweet juices for an irresistible filling.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and the delightful hint of cinnamon. This dry mixture sets the foundation for your soft rolls.
- Cut in Butter: Take the cold, grated unsalted butter and cut it into the flour mixture. Keep mixing until the texture resembles coarse crumbs, which will contribute to the fluffiness of your rolls.
- Add Buttermilk: Gradually stir in the buttermilk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, gently roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the surface, allowing each bite to burst with flavor.
- Layer Toppings: Sprinkle the finely diced strawberries and softened cream cheese across the jam-covered dough. This combo adds a creamy, tangy richness that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
- Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal rolls. Each slice should reveal the vibrant layers of strawberry goodness.
- Bake Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and bake for about 18 minutes or until they are golden brown and your kitchen starts to smell heavenly!
- Whip Cream: While the rolls are baking, whip the heavy cream with the remaining granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt until soft peaks form. This fluffy topping is the perfect finish.
- Serve Warm: Once the rolls are out of the oven, serve them warm, topped with your luscious whipped cream and additional strawberry sauce if desired. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Optional: Drizzle with extra strawberry jam for an additional layer of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls?
Indulging in these warm, sweet delights is only the beginning; let’s create the perfect meal experience to savor every moment.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich rolls. The vibrant colors and flavors elevate your brunch table beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop some vanilla ice cream on the side to create a delightful warm-and-cold sensation. The creamy texture enhances the fruity notes of the rolls.
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee brings out the sweetness of strawberry shortcake. The deep, bold flavors of coffee create a comforting balance with each bite.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup on top provides added sweetness and a cozy twist. It complements the cinnamon flavor perfectly, enhancing every taste sensation.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Serve a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea to cleanse the palate. The refreshing acidity cuts through the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries: For a delightful dessert combination, pair your rolls with chocolate-covered strawberries. It elevates the dessert experience and adds an elegant touch.
- Whipped Cream: While the rolls come with whipped cream, extra is always welcome! Serve alongside for guests who want an indulgent touch with their rolls.
Together, these pairings create a joyous atmosphere for sharing and celebrating with family and friends, making your meal unforgettable!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls
Use Fresh Strawberries: Always choose ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can make your filling watery.
Chill the Butter: Make sure your grated butter is cold; it helps create flaky layers in the rolls. Room temperature butter won’t provide the same texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dough, mix just until ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense rolls instead of light and fluffy ones.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your rolls towards the end of baking. Oven temperatures can vary—check for a golden brown color to know they’re ready!
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the rolls warm right out of the oven, topped with whipped cream. They taste amazing fresh!
Customize the Filling: Feel free to include other fruits or nuts in your filling for a personal twist on the Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Freezer: Freeze the unbaked rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake fresh!
Reheating: To reheat leftover baked rolls, wrap in foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough and filling components up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients and keep them in an airtight container, while the sugared strawberries can be refrigerated in a separate bowl. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the dough, add the fillings, and slice! Bake for about 18 minutes for warm, gooey rolls that taste fresh out of the oven. To maintain quality, store any leftover rolls in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven to restore that delightful warmth. You’ll have homemade goodness with minimal effort—perfect for any occasion!
Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with delicious twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a delightful gluten-free treat.
- Vegan: Swap butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, for a deliciously rich version.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or ginger powder into the dough or filling for a warm, cozy spice that elevates the rolls.
- Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry filling that introduces different tart and sweet notes.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the baked rolls for a decadent finish that chocolate lovers will adore!
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the cream cheese layer to brighten the flavors and cut through the sweetness.
- Boozy Kick: Incorporate a splash of rum or whiskey into the whipped cream for an adult twist that adds depth to each bite.
With these variations, each batch of rolls can be a new adventure, perfect for every occasion!
Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for ripe strawberries that are bright red and firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or a mushy texture, as these can ruin the overall flavor. If possible, select organic strawberries for a more intense natural sweetness!
How long can I store Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls?
You can keep leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you prefer them chilled, they can last for up to 5 days in the fridge. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap unbaked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake according to the recipe instructions for freshly baked rolls.
What should I do if my rolls don’t rise properly?
If your Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls don’t rise well, it might be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Always check the expiration dates and store these leavening agents in a cool, dry place. Also, ensure you’re not overmixing your dough, as this can lead to denser rolls. Mixing until just combined can help keep them light and fluffy!
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the dough and fill it with the strawberry filling the night before. Just cover the rolls with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they rise nicely in the oven.
Are these rolls suitable for anyone with allergies?
Great question! This recipe contains common allergens like gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter, cream, and cream cheese), and sugar. If you’re making these for someone with allergies, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend, use dairy-free butter and cream cheese, and sweeten with an alternative sugar like coconut sugar. Always double-check labels to ensure safety!
Irresistibly Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the hulled and sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and let sit for about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Cut cold, grated butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually stir in the buttermilk until just combined.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread strawberry jam over the surface.
- Sprinkle finely diced strawberries and softened cream cheese across the jam-covered dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and bake for about 18 minutes until golden brown.
- Whip heavy cream with sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until soft peaks form.
- Serve warm, topped with whipped cream and additional strawberry sauce if desired.
