There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of sweet strawberries and tangy cream cheese, especially when wrapped in soft, pillowy rolls. Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls – A Decadent Dessert Idea brings all these flavors together in a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a special treat for loved ones or indulging in some self-care baking, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls

Imagine biting into a warm, soft roll filled with homemade strawberry jam, topped with creamy lemon cream cheese icing. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug, offering the perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and rich creaminess. Plus, these rolls are made from scratch, giving you the satisfaction of creating something truly special.

Ingredients for Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these irresistible rolls:

For the Dough

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Whole milk, warmed	1 cup	Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough
Active dry yeast	2 ¼ tsp	Helps the dough rise
Sugar (to activate yeast)	¼ tsp	Feeds the yeast
Unsalted butter, melted	6 tbsp	Adds richness and flavor
Eggs, room temperature	2 large	Binds the dough and adds structure
White granulated sugar	½ cup	Sweetens the dough
All-purpose flour	4 cups	Provides structure
Salt	1 tsp	Balances the sweetness

For the Strawberry Jam

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Fresh strawberries	2 cups	Forms the base of the jam
Fresh lemon juice	1 tsp	Enhances the flavor of the strawberries
White granulated sugar	⅓ cup	Sweetens the jam
Water	1 tbsp	Helps dissolve the cornstarch
Cornstarch	2 tbsp	Thickens the jam

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Icing

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Cream cheese, softened	4 oz	Adds tanginess and creaminess
Butter, softened	2 tbsp	Makes the icing smooth and rich
Powdered sugar	1 cup	Sweetens and thickens the icing
Lemon zest	Zest of 1 lemon	Adds a bright, citrusy flavor
Whole milk	2 tbsp	Adjusts the consistency of the icing

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, stir together warm milk, yeast, and ¼ teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes until bubbly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine eggs, melted butter, and the yeast mixture.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, sugar, and salt to the wet ingredients. Using a dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until the dough begins to form.
4. Knead the Dough: Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Let It Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with nonstick spray. Place the dough in the bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Make the Strawberry Jam

1. Cook the Strawberries: In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
2. Mash the Berries: Use a potato masher to break down the strawberries as they cook.
3. Thicken the Jam: Stir together water and cornstarch to create a slurry, then pour it into the strawberry mixture. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the jam is very thick.
4. Cool Completely: Transfer the jam to a bowl and refrigerate until completely cool.

3. Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
2. Spread the Jam: Evenly spread the cooled strawberry jam over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Roll and Cut: Starting at one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 even pieces.

4. Bake the Rolls

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the rolls inside, cut-side up.
2. Let Them Rise Again: Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30 minutes, or until puffy.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Icing

1. Beat Ingredients: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, lemon zest, and milk, and continue beating until the icing is creamy and spreadable.

6. Frost and Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes after baking.
2. Add the Icing: Spread the lemon cream cheese icing generously over the warm rolls.
3. Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the gooey, sweet, and tangy flavors!

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the strawberry jam pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the lemon cream cheese icing.
• Soft, Pillowy Dough: Proper kneading and rising ensure that the rolls are soft and fluffy.
• Homemade Jam: Using fresh strawberries gives the filling a natural, vibrant flavor.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries and real butter make a noticeable difference in flavor.

2. Be Patient with Rising

• Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures soft, airy rolls.

3. Don’t Overfill

• Too much jam can make the rolls difficult to cut and bake.

4. Serve Warm

• These rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Roll (Approx.)
Calories	320
Protein	6g
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	43g
Sugar	22g
Fiber	2

Variations to Try

1. Raspberry Cream Cheese Rolls

• Substitute raspberries for strawberries in the jam for a tangy twist.

2. Chocolate Strawberry Rolls

• Sprinkle chocolate chips over the strawberry jam before rolling the dough.

3. Vegan Strawberry Rolls

• Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and assembling.

2. Can I freeze the rolls?

Absolutely. Freeze the baked and unfrosted rolls in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven and add icing before serving.

3. Can I use store-bought jam?

Yes, but homemade jam offers a fresher and more vibrant flavor.

4. How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Grease your baking dish generously or line it with parchment paper.

5. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before making the jam.

6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Why Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls Are Worth the Effort

These rolls are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. The combination of fluffy dough, sweet strawberry filling, and creamy icing creates a dessert that feels like a labor of love. They’re perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or any time you want to impress your guests (or treat yourself).

Your Turn to Bake

Now that you’ve seen how simple and satisfying it is to make Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls – A Decadent Dessert Idea, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to enjoy the sweet reward of your efforts. Your taste buds—and everyone you share them with—will thank you!

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