Fluffy Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls (Printer-Friendly)

Soft, tender rolls layered with strawberry compote and cinnamon, finished with smooth cream cheese frosting.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - ¾ cup warm milk
02 - ½ cup softened butter
03 - 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
04 - 1 package instant yeast (0.25 oz or 2¼ tsp)
05 - ¼ cup white sugar
06 - 1 tablespoon lemon zest
07 - ½ teaspoon salt
08 - 1 large egg

→ Filling

09 - ½ batch strawberry compote
10 - ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

→ Frosting

11 - 2 tablespoons softened butter
12 - 4 oz softened cream cheese
13 - 2 tablespoons strawberry compote
14 - 1½ to 2 cups powdered sugar
15 - Heavy cream or milk as needed to thin

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Warm ¾ cup milk in a saucepan until bubbling, then remove from heat and stir in ½ cup butter until melted. Allow to cool to lukewarm.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together 2¼ cups flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
03 - Incorporate the egg and cooled milk-butter mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until combined.
04 - Gradually add remaining flour ½ cup at a time, mixing until soft dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
05 - Cover dough with a damp cloth and let rest for 10 minutes.
06 - Roll dough into a 12x9 inch rectangle on a floured surface, maintaining even thickness.
07 - Spread ½ batch strawberry compote evenly over dough and sprinkle cinnamon if using.
08 - Cut dough into 12 equal strips, roll each tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
09 - Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes or until doubled in size. Preheat oven to 350°F (190°C).
10 - Bake for 23–25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
11 - Cool rolls on a wire rack for 10 minutes before applying frosting.
12 - Beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add strawberry compote and powdered sugar until thick. Thin with milk or cream if necessary.
13 - Generously spread frosting over warm rolls. Optionally garnish with fresh strawberry slices.

# Extra Tips:

01 - For extra softness, brush rolls with melted butter immediately after baking. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness.