Strawberry Donut Rolls

Soft, pillowy Strawberry Donut Rolls are a delightful treat that can brighten any occasion. These rolls combine the fluffy texture of cinnamon rolls with the fruity goodness of strawberry shortcake and the sweet glaze of donuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these Strawberry Donut Rolls will impress your family and friends with their unique flavors and appealing presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of strawberry filling and glazed topping creates a harmonious sweetness that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these rolls at breakfast, brunch gatherings, or as a delightful afternoon snack.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these impressive rolls without hassle.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to swap strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 rolls in one batch, they’re great for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious Strawberry Donut Rolls, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Dough hook (optional)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly and allowing dough to rise in a spacious environment.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough for filling.
• Baking pan: Provides the perfect shape and size for baking all 12 rolls together.
• Whisk: Ideal for achieving a smooth consistency in your glaze.

Ingredients

For the Dough
* 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
* ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
* 1 large egg, room temperature

For the Strawberry Filling
* 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves
* 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped

For the Donut Glaze
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 3–4 tablespoons milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Strawberry Donut Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes or use a dough hook for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Roll Out and Fill

Punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×15 inches). Spread strawberry jam evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with chopped strawberries. Roll tightly from the long side into a log shape. Slice into 12 even rolls.

Step 3: Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover them and let them rise for another 30–40 minutes until they become puffy.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Make Glaze

While waiting for the rolls to bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more sugar or milk if needed.

Step 6: Glaze Rolls

Once the rolls are slightly warm, drizzle them generously with glaze. Allow it to set before serving your delightful Strawberry Donut Rolls.

How to Serve Strawberry Donut Rolls

Strawberry Donut Rolls are not only delightful on their own but can also be served in various creative ways. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual breakfast, here are some fantastic serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas: Add fresh banana slices for a creamy texture that complements the strawberry flavor.
• Mixed Berries: Serve with a side of blueberries and raspberries for a colorful, fruity contrast.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and makes these rolls feel extra indulgent.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try vanilla or almond-flavored whipped cream to elevate the taste experience even more.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Alongside Scrambled Eggs: Pair with fluffy scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
• With Yogurt Parfaits: Serve alongside yogurt topped with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing combination.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• Additional Glaze: Drizzle more glaze on top just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and shine.

How to Perfect Strawberry Donut Rolls

Achieving the ideal Strawberry Donut Rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they come out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Using warm milk and a room temperature egg helps the dough rise better for fluffier rolls.
• Knead thoroughly: Ensure the dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic; this develops the gluten necessary for structure.
• Don’t rush the rising: Allowing the dough to double in size is key to achieving that light, airy texture.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the correct temperature before baking.
• Cool slightly before glazing: Glazing warm rolls allows the glaze to adhere better while still maintaining its shine.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Donut Rolls

Strawberry Donut Rolls can be paired with delightful side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some excellent options that will make your meal even more enjoyable.

1. Greek Yogurt: This tangy option adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy contrast.
3. Egg Muffins: Savory egg muffins serve as a protein-rich companion, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
4. Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars offer texture and can be made in advance for convenience.
5. Savory Scones: Pair with cheese or herb scones for a delicious sweet-and-savory combination.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding is a great way to add fiber and nutrients alongside your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Donut Rolls, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to be aware of and how to avoid them.

• Incorrect yeast temperature – Using milk that’s too hot can kill the yeast. Always ensure your milk is around 110°F for optimal activation.
• Not kneading enough – If your dough isn’t kneaded long enough, it won’t develop the right texture. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough after 8–10 minutes of kneading.
• Skipping the first rise – Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffiness. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size for about 1 hour.
• Overfilling the rolls – Adding too much strawberry jam can make rolling difficult and lead to spills during baking. Use a moderate amount to keep the rolls intact.
• Forgetting glaze adjustments – If your glaze is too thick or thin, it won’t adhere well. Adjust consistency by adding sugar or milk until smooth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Strawberry Donut Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Donut Rolls

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm rolls for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual rolls for about 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop – Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat, warming them gradually while avoiding direct contact with high heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Strawberry Donut Rolls that might help you in your baking journey.

Can I use frozen strawberries in the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before mixing them into the filling.

How do I make my Strawberry Donut Rolls extra sweet?

For added sweetness, you can increase the sugar in both the dough and glaze or top with whipped cream after glazing.

Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! You can replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for different flavors.

How do I store leftover Strawberry Donut Rolls?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, check if your yeast is active. It might be expired or may have been exposed to too much heat.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Donut Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect breakfast item or sweet treat at any time of day. Feel free to customize with different fruits or toppings like cream cheese frosting. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!