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While exploring new kitchen ideas, I stumbled upon these roasted strawberry rolls that quickly became my absolute favorite. When baked, the sweet strawberries develop an amazingly rich flavor, while the cream cheese-infused dough stays wonderfully soft and fluffy. I love bringing them out for weekend brunches or when friends drop by for coffee – their faces always light up after their first bite.
Delightful Comfort In Every Bite
These rolls are truly something else, blending creamy goodness with the bright flavors of strawberries. I love how cinnamon and orange zest bring a subtle warmth and zing to each bite. They've become my go-to treat for special moments, but truth be told, I sometimes whip them up just because we need a little sweetness in our day. The filling turns beautifully melty, and that cream cheese frosting really makes everything come together.
Everything You'll Need For Perfect Rolls
- Strawberries: 1 liter (567g) fresh or frozen for a naturally sweet, intense filling.
- Sugar: 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (124g) divided between the filling and dough.
- ClearJel: 4 tsp to thicken our strawberry mixture.
- Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp for that warm, comforting touch.
- Orange zest: 2 tsp to add freshness.
- Milk: 3/4 cup (170g) warmed to wake up the yeast.
- Cream cheese: 113g for the dough and 57g for our frosting.
- Butter: 2 tbsp (28g) to enrich the dough.
- Flour: 3 1/4 cups (390g) for a soft, workable dough.
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup (113g) for the frosting.
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp to flavor the frosting.
- Milk or cream: 1 1/2 to 2 tsp to get the perfect frosting consistency.
Let's Make Them Together
- Getting The Filling Ready
- Start by heating your oven to 180°C. Spread your cleaned, hulled strawberries on a baking sheet and sprinkle with 2 tbsp sugar. Roast them for about 25-30 minutes or 40-45 minutes if frozen. Once cooled, gently mash them and mix with the remaining sugar, ClearJel, cinnamon, and orange zest.
- Creating The Perfect Dough
- Warm your milk, cream cheese, and butter in the microwave until they're just warm to touch. Mix with sugar, egg, yeast, salt, and flour until you get a nice soft, stretchy dough. Let it rest for about 45-60 minutes until it puffs up well.
- Putting It All Together
- Roll your dough into a 40x30 cm rectangle on parchment paper. Spread this wonderful strawberry filling, leaving a small edge. Roll it up tightly and pop in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting into 12 equal portions. Place them in a buttered dish and let rise again for 45-60 minutes.
- The Finishing Touch
- Bake at 180°C for 28-30 minutes until they're nicely golden. While they're cooking, make the frosting by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and just enough milk for a smooth texture. Spread over your still-warm rolls and watch it melt into all the nooks.
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My Kitchen Secrets For Outstanding Rolls
After making these countless times in my kitchen, I've picked up a few tricks. Go for the ripest strawberries you can find and try adding a pinch of cardamom to the filling – it's pure magic. Don't be afraid to play with the frosting too; I sometimes toss in orange or lemon zest when I want to fancy them up. They'll keep well in the fridge for a few days, but honestly, they never last that long at my house. You can also freeze them for those unexpected sweet cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can frozen strawberries work?
- Yes, frozen strawberries are fine. Thaw them a bit before roasting, and remove extra liquid to avoid a runny filling.
- → What if I can't find ClearJel?
- Cornstarch or potato starch works too. Use the same amount but mix it with a little sugar before adding it to the strawberries.
- → How can I make the dough fluffy?
- Knead the dough well and follow the rising times. Make sure the milk isn't too hot to keep the yeast alive.
- → Can I make the rolls ahead?
- Prepare up to the second rise and keep them in the fridge overnight. Let them warm to room temperature before baking.
- → What's the best way to store them?
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Warm them slightly before eating.