Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing combine the irresistible charm of classic cinnamon rolls with the bright, fruity flavors of strawberries and a tangy lemon glaze. This delightful recipe transforms the traditional sweet roll by swapping out cinnamon for an aromatic strawberry filling, infusing each bite with summery freshness.

The addition of zesty lemon icing enhances the flavor profile, cutting through the sweetness with a fresh citrus tang. Sweet rolls trace their roots to European baking traditions, and modern variations like strawberry rolls have gained popularity as creative morning treats or impressive desserts.

Home bakers love this dessert for its vibrant appearance, crowd-pleasing taste, and the satisfaction that comes from creating a show-stopping pastry from scratch.

Whether you seek a make-ahead brunch centerpiece, a special afternoon snack, or a dessert that appeals to all ages, Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing are a winning choice.

As the sweet scent of baking strawberries and yeasted dough fills your kitchen, you'll discover why this recipe has become a favorite among families and food lovers looking for a twist on traditional breakfast pastries.

Let this detailed recipe guide you through every step of making soft, fluffy rolls filled with juicy strawberries and topped with a perfectly sweet-tart lemon icing.

Ingredients

For the Dough:
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup whole milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs

For the Strawberry Filling:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Icing:
1 ½ cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk until it is just lukewarm (about 105°F). Sprinkle in the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar, lightly stir, and let it sit for 5 minutes or until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and eggs to the foamy yeast mixture, then pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough begins to form.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, either by hand on a floured surface or with a stand mixer and dough hook, adding flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size (about 1-1.5 hours).
Meanwhile, make the Strawberry Filling: In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the strawberries release their juices and begin to break down. Stir in the cornstarch and vanilla, cooking 2-3 more minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and cool completely.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to a rectangle about 16x12 inches.
Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along the edges.
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll up the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal, and slice into 12 even pieces with a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
Arrange rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, cut side up. Cover them loosely and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the strawberry rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
While the rolls bake, prepare the Lemon Icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and pourable.
Remove rolls from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle generously with the lemon icing before serving.

Nutritional Information

Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing offer a delightful blend of flavors, but as with any sweet pastry, it's important to appreciate both the pleasure and nutritional aspects. Each roll provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it an indulgent breakfast or dessert choice.

On average, a strawberry roll with lemon icing (based on a batch of 12) contains about 250-300 calories per serving. The carbohydrates mainly come from the flour and sugar, offering quick energy that makes these rolls ideal for a morning pick-me-up.

Strawberries add a modest dose of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, boosting the nutrition profile compared to standard rolls. The lemon juice in the icing brings not only flavor but also a small amount of vitamin C.

The portion of butter and whole milk in the dough provides richness and yields a tender crumb but does contribute to the saturated fat content. Eggs add a bit of protein as well as essential vitamins and minerals like choline and vitamin D.

While Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing are best enjoyed as part of a special occasion meal, you can enhance their nutrition by incorporating whole wheat flour, reducing added sugar, or swapping in low-fat dairy products if desired.

Overall, this recipe is a tasty way to enjoy fruit-forward baking while treating yourself in moderation.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. If serving for brunch, consider a light-bodied sparkling wine such as Prosecco or a fruity rosé, which complements the berry filling and the lemony brightness.

For a non-alcoholic option, a freshly steeped herbal tea-especially one with citrus or berry notes-adds an aromatic touch. A classic cup of black coffee or a latte provides a lovely contrast to the rolls' sweetness.

For a refreshing twist, try homemade lemonade or a sparkling fruit water infused with fresh mint and strawberries.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To elevate your Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing, consider these expert tips and delicious variations. For the dough, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature to help them combine smoothly and promote a better rise. Kneading until smooth and elastic is crucial for achieving soft, fluffy rolls.

If you're short on time, you can prepare the rolls the night before, then let them rise in the fridge overnight and bake fresh in the morning. If fresh strawberries are not in season, frozen berries work well-just thaw and drain them before use.

For those seeking a richer filling, add a dollop of cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar atop the strawberry layer before rolling up the dough.

You can also experiment by including other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, or adding a touch of almond extract to the filling for a subtle nutty flavor. For a vegan twist, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flaxseed egg replacement.

Make your icing thicker or thinner by adjusting the amount of milk, and substitute orange juice and zest for lemon to create a different citrus note.

By tailoring this recipe with your favorite mix-ins and slight ingredient changes, you can personalize your Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing to suit any palate or dietary need.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing is all about showcasing their vibrant appearance and delightful flavor. For a stunning brunch presentation, arrange the warm rolls in a decorative baking dish or a colorful platter.

Garnishing with fresh strawberry slices and a sprinkle of lemon zest will add visual appeal and a hint of freshness. If you're hosting a gathering, slice each roll and present them with small dessert forks or wooden picks for easy sharing.

For an extra touch during breakfast, serve the rolls alongside a fruit salad or vanilla yogurt to balance the sweet, tart flavors and provide contrasting textures. You can serve them warm, with the icing gently melting and dripping down the sides, or at room temperature for a convenient, portable snack.

Consider pairing individual rolls with a small cup of espresso or a light mimosa if celebrating with friends. Leftover rolls can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to revive their softness-the perfect treat to brighten up tea time or an afternoon coffee break.

However you choose to serve them, these rolls are sure to be the highlight of your table, offering a beautiful mix of color, aroma, and taste.

Health Benefits

Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing contain several wholesome elements, especially when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Strawberries are a low-calorie fruit packed with antioxidants, vitamins (particularly vitamin C and folate), and dietary fiber, supporting immune health and digestion.

The lemon in the icing not only brings zesty flavor but also provides additional vitamin C, which aids in collagen synthesis and overall wellness. By opting for reduced-sugar versions or using whole grain flour, you can further enhance the nutrient content of these rolls.

Compared to many store-bought pastries, homemade strawberry rolls allow you to control the amount and quality of ingredients, making it easier to reduce additives or preservatives.

While these rolls do contain sugar and saturated fat due to the butter, eggs, and icing, they can be part of a healthy lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation. Swapping out regular dairy for plant-based options makes them suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan diets.

For those looking to lower their caloric intake, smaller serving sizes or less icing can help. The inclusion of real fruit and freshly squeezed lemon sets these Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing apart from other pastries, contributing valuable nutrients along with their delectable flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for the filling. Thaw them first and drain excess liquid to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy.

Can the rolls be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before the final rise. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and finish rising before baking as directed.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute plant-based milk and butter for the dairy ingredients, and ensure the icing uses a dairy-free milk alternative. These swaps will yield delicious, dairy-free strawberry rolls.

Why is my dough not rising properly?

Ensure the milk is not too hot or too cold when activating the yeast-lukewarm is ideal. Use fresh, unexpired yeast and allow for adequate rising time in a warm, draft-free area.

How do I store leftover strawberry rolls?

Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing bring a modern, fruity twist to classic sweet rolls, offering a taste of sunshine in every bite. With their combination of soft, fluffy dough, vibrant strawberry filling, and tangy, fragrant lemon icing, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They are an ideal make-ahead option for special occasions, family gatherings, or as an everyday treat to brighten your morning. This comprehensive recipe ensures reliable results and endless ways to personalize flavors or adapt to dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a sweet snack, Strawberry Rolls with Lemon Icing promise to delight all who try them. Roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and savor the magic of homemade baking with these beautiful, berry-filled pastries.