Strawberry cream cheese rolls are one of the most comforting and irresistible treats you can prepare at home. Soft, fluffy dough wrapped around a creamy filling, topped with fresh strawberry glaze and whole strawberries, makes this dessert perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special family gathering. The combination of sweet berries and smooth cream creates a rich flavor that feels both refreshing and indulgent. These rolls also bring a beautiful bakery-style appearance, making them excellent for sharing or serving on special occasions.
Making these rolls may look complicated, but the steps are simple, and the results are always impressive. The recipe uses basic ingredients like flour, yeast, cream cheese, sugar, and fresh strawberries. With the right technique, the dough becomes soft and airy, while the filling melts into a smooth, flavorful center. You can serve them warm, chilled, or room temperature—each way delivers a delicious experience.
Below is a complete, clean, and easy-to-follow guide for preparing homemade strawberry cream cheese rolls that bake perfectly every time.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- Fresh strawberries, halved
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk until it is slightly warm but not hot. Add the sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow the mixture to sit for five minutes until it becomes foamy. This step activates the yeast and ensures the dough rises properly. Once the yeast is ready, mix in the egg, vanilla, oil, and salt.
Add the flour gradually while stirring to create a soft dough. It should be smooth and only slightly sticky. Knead the dough for about five minutes. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for one hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy. Keep the mixture refrigerated while the dough rises.
Make the Strawberry Filling
Place the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small pot over medium heat. Cook the mixture until the berries release their juice. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the filling thickens. Remove from the heat and let it cool completely before using.
Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough. Add spoonfuls of the cooled strawberry mixture over the cream cheese. Avoid adding too much liquid to keep the dough from becoming soggy.
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut equal slices and place them into a greased baking pan. Cover the rolls and allow them to rise again for 20–30 minutes.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden on top. The cream cheese filling should be set and the strawberries slightly bubbling.
Add the Glaze
Mix the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls. Top each roll with a fresh strawberry half for extra flavor and a beautiful finish.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls
To achieve soft, bakery-style rolls, ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl near a warm oven or inside a microwave with the door closed. Also, avoid overfilling the rolls with strawberry mixture; too much liquid will make them difficult to cut and may cause the dough to tear.
When baking, keep an eye on the tops to prevent over-browning. If they start to darken too quickly, lightly cover the pan with foil during the last few minutes. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting completely.
These rolls store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Warm them briefly in the microwave to restore their soft texture before serving.
Serving Ideas
Strawberry cream cheese rolls pair beautifully with hot coffee, tea, or fresh milk. They can also be served as a dessert with whipped cream, extra strawberry sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For celebrations, arrange them on a decorative platter and top them with extra glaze and sliced berries.