When the first blooms of spring start to paint our gardens, I find myself yearning for something bright and cheerful to sweeten my days. That’s when I decided to shake things up in the kitchen and dream up these delightful Strawberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing. The sweet, buttery aroma that fills the air while they bake is simply irresistible and serves as a perfect reminder that warmer days are just around the corner.

These rolls are not only an enchanting twist on classic cinnamon rolls but also an invitation to indulge in the seasonal flavors of strawberries. Soft and fluffy, each bite presents a delightful burst of sweet strawberry filling, topped with a rich, creamy icing that sends my taste buds dancing. Perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy weekend mornings, they bring a little sunshine to any table. Whether you’re an aspiring chef or a home cook fighting the fatigue of fast food, these strawberry rolls are both easy to make and utterly satisfying. Let’s get baking and add a bit of spring sweetness to your kitchen!

Why are Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing a must-try?

Irresistible aroma: The smell of fresh strawberry rolls baking is simply enchanting, filling your home with warmth and cheer.
Delightful sweetness: Each fluffy bite bursts with sweet strawberry flavor, making these rolls perfect for dessert or breakfast.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll find that creating these scrumptious buns is a breeze—perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
Versatile options: Feel free to play with flavors—swap strawberry preserves for raspberry or blueberry for a unique twist!
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for brunches or afternoon tea, these sweet rolls are sure to impress friends and family, transforming any occasion into a delightful gathering.
Indulging in these rolls will definitely brighten your day, so why not surprise your loved ones with these beautiful strawberry buns?

Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure and helps create a soft dough; stick to this for best texture.
Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; feel free to use coconut sugar for a unique flavor.
Rapid yeast – Ensures the dough rises quickly; check it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; essential for enhancing overall flavor.
Milk – Hydrates the dough for softness; whole milk is preferred but any milk works.
Butter – Adds rich flavor; use unsalted for better control over salt content.
Egg – Binds the dough and contributes to fluffiness; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
Strawberry preserves – Serves as the sweet filling; swap for raspberry or apricot preserves for variety.

For the Cream Cheese Icing

Powdered sugar – Sweetens the icing while providing a silky texture.
Cream cheese – Its rich, tangy flavor elevates the icing; full-fat is recommended for creaminess.
Milk (for icing) – Adjusts the consistency; any milk will do!
Vanilla extract – Enhances the icing’s flavor; be sure to choose pure vanilla for the best taste.
Salt (for icing) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; don’t skip it!

These Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing are sure to bring joy to your kitchen and make your mornings a little sweeter.

How to Make Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, rapid yeast, sugar, and salt until well mixed. This will be the base for your delicious dough!
Warm Milk & Butter: Gently warm the milk and butter in the microwave; ensure it’s just warm—about 110°F—to keep the yeast happy, then add this to the flour mixture.
Combine and Beat: Add the egg to the flour mixture and beat until fully mixed. You’re looking for a nice, smooth consistency to start!
Add Flour Gradually: Slowly sprinkle in the remaining flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and forms a soft ball, inviting you to knead it.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is key for that fluffy texture!
Let it Rise: Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This is where all the magic happens!
Roll Out the Dough: Once risen, roll the dough out into an 18×12-inch rectangle. Spread an even layer of strawberry preserves over the surface, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Form the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly, sealing the edge by pinching it shut. A gentle touch will ensure your rolls stay snug as a bug!
Cut and Second Rise: Cut the rolled dough into 12 even sections and arrange them in a parchment-lined 9×13 pan. Allow them to rise again for about an hour until they look puffy and ready to bake.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for about 30 minutes until they’re golden brown and calling your name. Let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Icing: For your icing, microwave the cream cheese just until softened, then mix in the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until creamy and smooth. Drizzle this heavenly icing over the warm rolls as they cool.

Optional: Sprinkle with fresh strawberries for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with these delightful variations—each twist brings a unique flavor experience to your strawberry rolls!

Berry Swap: Substitute strawberry preserves with raspberry, blueberry, or even peach preserves for a fresh flavor twist.
Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle a light layer of cinnamon into the filling for cozy warmth that complements the fruitiness.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water), and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a vegan-friendly treat.
Zesty Icing: Infuse your icing with a splash of lemon or orange juice for a bright, citrusy kick.
Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the strawberry filling for a sweet and unexpected chocolatey surprise.
Nutty Texture: Toss in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, in the filling for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the rolls.
Almond Extract: Swap half the vanilla in the icing for almond extract to deepen the flavor profile with a nutty essence.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.

Experimenting with these variations allows you to create a personalized version of your strawberry buns, making every batch uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance by preparing it the night before and allowing it to rise initially. After kneading, simply cover the dough and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling it out and proceeding with the filling and second rise. The rolls can also be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply warm them in the oven and drizzle with the fresh cream cheese icing for a delightful breakfast treat that tastes just as delicious as when they were first made!

What to Serve with Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing?

Imagine a charming brunch table adorned with delightful dishes that complement the sweetness of freshly baked strawberry buns.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal berries and citrus adds a bright, refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls, enhancing their fruity flavor.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream brings an indulgent richness, perfect for drizzling over the warm buns.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or peppermint tea rounds out the experience with gentle flavors that balance the sweetness of the icing.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and strawberries for a light, protein-packed option that pairs beautifully with the fluffy rolls.
Savory Quiche: An egg-based quiche with vegetables provides a savory counterpoint to the sweet, buttery rolls, making for a well-rounded brunch.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade adds a zesty kick and complements the fruity notes of the strawberry buns.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee ensures a classic pairing that enhances the flavors of cream cheese icing while providing an energizing boost.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For an indulgent dessert idea, these gorgeous treats elevate the enjoyment of strawberry-flavored foods while adding elegance to your table.
Cinnamon Streusel Muffins: These muffins add warmth with their spiced sweetness, making a comforting addition that still resonates with the spring theme.
Milkshake: A creamy vanilla milkshake offers a playful and creamy treat that blends well with the lightness of the strawberry rolls.

Storage Tips for Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing

Room Temperature: Store leftover strawberry buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and soft.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage time, these buns can also be kept in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they are in an airtight container.

Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped buns for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To reheat, warm in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes until warm, restoring their delightful flavor and texture.

Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Buns

Fresh Yeast Check: Ensure your rapid yeast is fresh; old yeast won’t rise properly, resulting in dense buns. Always check the expiration date on the package!
Warm Milk Balance: When warming milk and butter, aim for about 110°F—hot milk can kill yeast, preventing proper dough rise.
Flour Gradually: Be cautious when adding flour; adding too much at once can lead to a dry dough. Add flour until the dough just pulls away from the bowl sides.
Kneading Key: Knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. Proper kneading develops gluten, yielding fluffy strawberry buns—the magic is in the texture!
Second Rise Importance: Don’t skip the second rise before baking. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely fluffy texture in your strawberry buns!
Icing Consistency: Adjust your cream cheese icing consistency with milk. Start with less, adding more gradually to get that perfect drizzle over your rolls.

Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for vibrant red color and a sweet aroma. Avoid those with white or green patches, and choose berries that are firm to the touch. If there are dark spots all over, it might mean they’re overripe.

What’s the best way to store leftover strawberry buns?
You can keep leftover strawberry buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’ll still taste wonderful but will be best at room temperature.

Can I freeze strawberry buns for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze strawberry buns, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then warm them up in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your dough hasn’t risen, it might be due to the yeast being old or the liquid being too hot, which can kill the yeast. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure your milk is around 110°F when mixing. Also, make sure you’re letting the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.

Are these strawberry buns safe for those with allergies?
I recommend it! If you have a family member with allergies, you can make adjustments such as using gluten-free flour or a flax egg as an alternative to traditional egg to accommodate egg allergens. Always check the labels of your specific ingredients for allergen information.

How can I enhance the icing flavor?
For a delicious twist, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or almond extract to your cream cheese icing. These additions will elevate the flavor profile and add a uniquely delightful touch that pairs beautifully with the strawberry filling!

Irresistible Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing Delight

Indulge in these delightful Strawberry Buns with Cream Cheese Icing, a perfect sweet treat showcasing seasonal strawberries.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Rising Time 1

Total Time 2

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 buns

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

- Large bowl
microwave
Parchment paper
Oven
Rolling Pin

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour provides structure
1 cup sugar can substitute with coconut sugar
1 packet rapid yeast ensure it's fresh
0.5 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
0.5 cup milk whole milk preferred
0.25 cup butter use unsalted
1 large egg or flax egg for vegan option
0.5 cup strawberry preserves can replace with raspberry or apricot

Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients

2 cups powdered sugar sweetens icing
8 oz cream cheese full-fat recommended
2 tablespoons milk for icing consistency
1 teaspoon vanilla extract choose pure for best taste
0.25 teaspoon salt balances sweetness

Instructions

Making the Rolls

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, rapid yeast, sugar, and salt until well mixed.
Gently warm the milk and butter in the microwave to about 110°F, then add this to the flour mixture.
Add the egg to the flour mixture and beat until fully mixed.
Slowly sprinkle in the remaining flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour.
Roll the dough into an 18x12-inch rectangle and spread an even layer of strawberry preserves.
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly and pinch the edge closed.
Cut the rolled dough into 12 sections and arrange them in a parchment-lined pan, letting them rise for another hour.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
Microwave the cream cheese just until softened, then mix in the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until creamy.
Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls as they cool.

Notes

Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can be refrigerated for a week or frozen for up to 2 months.

Keyword brunch, cream cheese icing, dessert, seasonal flavors, strawberry buns, Sweet Rolls