As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet, fruity aroma of fresh strawberries simmering on the stove reminded me of sun-soaked summer mornings. There’s something magical about those moments, especially when crafting Fluffy Strawberry Rolls with Tangy Lemon Icing. These delightful rolls are not only a feast for the eyes but a symphony for the taste buds—perfectly fluffy and packed with homemade strawberry jam. With just a pinch of lemon zest in the creamy icing, each bite is a beautiful balance of sweetness and tartness. Quick to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, these rolls are the ideal breakfast or dessert that will elevate any meal. Are you ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of baked goodness and create something special? Let’s get started!
Why Are These Strawberry Rolls a Must-Try?
Irresistibly Fluffy: Each roll is soft and tender, making them the perfect combination of comfort and delight.
Homemade Goodness: The sensation of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon icing elevates this recipe, bringing a homemade touch that store-bought options can’t compete with.
Versatile Delights: Customize your rolls by swapping in other jams like raspberry or blueberry, or add sliced almonds for a crunchy twist.
Time-Saving Treats: With a straightforward preparation process, these strawberry rolls are quick to whip up, making them ideal for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve warm as a breakfast treat or as an exquisite dessert, and watch them disappear in no time! As you enjoy these rolls, consider pairing them with Strawberry Shortcake Muffins for even more sweet satisfaction.
Strawberry Rolls Ingredients
• Dive into the vibrant world of Strawberry Rolls with the following essential ingredients!
For the Dough
- Whole Milk – Provides moisture and helps activate the yeast; warm it to 105°F – 110°F for ideal activation.
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh and properly activated in warm milk.
- Sugar – Activates the yeast and adds sweetness; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; melt it for easy incorporation into the dough.
- Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; use large, room temperature eggs.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the rolls; accurately measure it to prevent dense rolls.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast fermentation.
For the Strawberry Filling
- Fresh Strawberries – The star ingredient that offers a burst of flavor; can be replaced with raspberries or blueberries.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Balances the sweetness, perfectly complementing the jam.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the strawberry jam; arrowroot powder is a good substitute.
For the Lemon Icing
- Cream Cheese – The creamy base for the icing; ensure it is softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a smooth texture; adjust to your taste.
- Lemon Zest – Intensifies the citrus flavor; lime zest can give a fresh twist instead.
- Whole Milk (for icing) – Adjusts the icing’s consistency; add as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffy Strawberry Rolls with Tangy Lemon Icing
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
Begin by warming 1 cup of whole milk to between 105°F and 110°F. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir gently and allow this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is ready to use.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. Add the frothy yeast mixture from Step 1 and mix until well combined. Gradually incorporate 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Using a dough hook, mix on low speed, then knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Place the bowl in a warm spot and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is vital for ensuring your strawberry rolls will be fluffy and soft.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Jam
While the dough is rising, prepare the homemade strawberry jam. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of fresh strawberries with 1/2 cup of sugar and the juice of 1 lemon. Cook over medium heat until the mixture simmers, stirring occasionally, and mash the strawberries slightly.
Step 5: Thicken the Jam
To thicken the strawberry jam, stir together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the simmering strawberries, stirring constantly until the jam thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove it from heat and let it chill in the fridge.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough is beautifully risen, place it on a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle measuring about 14×18 inches. Spread the chilled strawberry jam evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to ensure it doesn’t spill out when rolled.
Step 7: Cut and Roll the Dough
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 12 even strips. Next, take each strip and roll it tightly from one end to the other, forming a delightful roll. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan with the seams facing down, ensuring there’s space between them to grow.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm area for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until they are noticeably puffy and have increased in size. This second rise is key to achieving the light and fluffy texture of the Fluffy Strawberry Rolls.
Step 9: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them; a perfect roll should bounce back slightly when touched.
Step 10: Prepare the Lemon Icing
While the rolls bake, prepare the tangy lemon icing. In a medium bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add the zest of 1 lemon and whole milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 11: Ice the Rolls
Once the strawberry rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Drizzle or spread the lemon icing generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to seep into every delicious crevice before serving.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Rolls
Avoid Dry Rolls:
• Ensure proper flour measurement by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off; scooping directly can compact the flour and lead to dry rolls.
Perfect Yeast Activation:
• Warm your milk to exactly 105°F – 110°F before adding yeast; this promotes optimal activation and prevents your rolls from being dense due to inactive yeast.
Make-Ahead Option:
• Prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it; let it come to room temperature before rolling out for a more convenient morning.
Use Fresh Ingredients:
• Always use fresh strawberries for the filling. Frozen strawberries can yield excess moisture and alter the texture of your delicious strawberry rolls.
Easy Icing Consistency:
• Adjust the milk in your lemon icing gradually to achieve the perfect pourable consistency; too much milk can make it runny while too little can be too thick.
Flavor Variations:
• Experiment with different jams, such as raspberry or blueberry, to customize your strawberry rolls for unique flavor profiles!
What to Serve with Fluffy Strawberry Rolls with Tangy Lemon Icing
There’s nothing like a heavenly aroma of baked goodness wafting through your home, paired beautifully with delightful sides that complement your main dish.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the rolls with its vibrant flavors.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layers of creamy yogurt, granola, and mixed berries create a deliciously healthy contrast to the sweet rolls while enhancing the breakfast experience.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and a savory note, making your breakfast feel hearty and fulfilling alongside the sweet rolls.
- Cold Brew Coffee: The smooth, bold flavors of cold brew perfectly contrast with the sweetness of the rolls, making your morning routine feel indulgent.
- Honey Butter: A dollop of whipped honey butter adds a luscious richness, enhancing the flavors in each bite while treading the line between breakfast and dessert beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a warm roll with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a luscious dessert that will make your taste buds sing.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea not only offers comfort but also refreshes the palate between bites of sweet goodness.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of rich maple syrup elevates flavors and adds a lovely sweetness, making each bite an experience to cherish.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover strawberry rolls covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay moist and fresh.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze rolls individually wrapped in plastic then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 30 days.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen rolls, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the toaster oven until heated through.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the rolls ahead of time; they can be baked, cooled, and then stored in the fridge or freezer to enjoy a fresh treat whenever the craving strikes!
Make Ahead Options
These Fluffy Strawberry Rolls with Tangy Lemon Icing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and fill it with homemade strawberry jam up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate the rolled-up rolls in a greased pan, tightly covered with plastic wrap, to maintain their fluffiness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise before preheating the oven. The lemon icing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply let it come to room temperature before drizzling it over the warm rolls. Enjoy delightful, freshly baked strawberry rolls with minimal morning effort!
Strawberry Rolls Customization Ideas
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect strawberry rolls experience!
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Berry Bliss: Substitute fresh strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a unique flavor twist. Experimenting with these berries brings a refreshing alternative.
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Nutty Delight: Add sliced almonds or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture and a delightful nutty flavor that pairs well with the fruit.
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Lower-Sugar Option: Swap regular sugar for coconut sugar or honey to adjust sweetness levels and cater to your preferred taste.
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Citrus Zing: Change the lemon zest in the icing to lime or orange zest for a vibrant twist that brightens the flavors beautifully.
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Chocolatey Indulgence: Drizzle melted chocolate over the lemon icing for a rich, decadent dessert that’s both unexpected and delightful.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spicy undertone that surprises the taste buds.
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Caramel Drizzle: Top the rolls with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent over-the-top sweet experience. Serve them with a side of vanilla ice cream for a treat that’s simply irresistible.
These delightful variations make your strawberry rolls even more special! Why not enjoy them alongside some Strawberry Lemon Blondies for a colorful dessert platter?
Fluffy Strawberry Rolls with Tangy Lemon Icing Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best strawberries for my rolls?
Absolutely! Choose strawberries that are bright red, with a firm texture and a sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or bruises, as they may be overripe. Fresh strawberries will give your rolls the best flavor, but if you can’t find any, I recommend using frozen strawberries as a last resort. Just be mindful that they contain more moisture.
What’s the best way to store leftover strawberry rolls?
Very! Store leftover strawberry rolls covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps them moist and fresh. If they dry out, you can add a slice of bread to the container; it helps maintain the humidity!
Can I freeze my strawberry rolls?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm them in a toaster oven until heated through.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your dough hasn’t risen properly, check that your yeast is fresh and that you used warm milk between 105°F – 110°F. If the dough doesn’t seem to rise, try moving it to a warmer area (like a sunny windowsill) and give it some extra time, about 15-30 minutes longer. The dough should double in size when given the right conditions!
Is there a way to modify this recipe for allergies?
Yes! You can definitely customize this recipe to meet dietary needs. For dairy-free options, use almond milk and coconut yogurt instead of whole milk and cream cheese. Also, substitute butter with vegan margarine. If gluten-free is necessary, experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, adjusting liquid amounts as needed for consistency.
How can I make the icing thicker or thinner?
Great question! To adjust the icing consistency, start by adding small amounts of whole milk, one teaspoon at a time for thinning it down, until you achieve your desired texture. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it by gradually incorporating more powdered sugar until it reaches the perfect spreadable consistency.
Fluffy Strawberry Rolls with Zesty Lemon Icing Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm 1 cup of whole milk to between 105°F and 110°F. Combine with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Stir and let sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a stand mixer, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. Add the yeast mixture and mix well. Gradually incorporate 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix on low, then knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Prepare the strawberry jam by cooking 2 cups of fresh strawberries with 1/2 cup of sugar and the juice of 1 lemon over medium heat, mashing slightly.
- Thicken the jam by stirring together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water, then adding to the simmering mixture until thickened.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 14x18 inches and spread chilled strawberry jam over it, leaving a small border.
- Cut the dough into 12 strips and roll each strip tightly. Place rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the lemon icing by beating 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add lemon zest and milk to achieve desired consistency.
- Allow the rolls to cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle or spread lemon icing over warm rolls.
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