The sweet scent of strawberry jam fills the air, transporting me back to sun-drenched kitchens and lazy Sunday mornings. There’s something truly special about these Strawberry Donut Rolls—the way they combine the indulgent softness of brioche with a luscious filling, creating a blissful bite that feels like pure joy. As I watched my friends devour them during a brunch gathering, I realized these treats are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, giving the delightful illusion of donuts without the messy frying.
Ideal for weekend baking or as a delightful breakfast surprise, these rolls are not only pleasing to the eye but also a rewarding experience to make. The soft, fluffy texture pairs beautifully with the strawberry sugar coating, creating the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re surprising loved ones with a sweet breakfast or simply treating yourself, these Strawberry Donut Rolls promise to elevate any moment. Ready to roll your way to sweet bliss? Let’s get started!
Why Will You Love Strawberry Donut Rolls?
Delightfully Soft: The fluffy brioche dough makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Bursting with Flavor: Sweet strawberry jam fills these rolls, evoking summer sweetness in every morsel.
Fun to Make: Gather friends or family—the rolling and shaping is a great way to bond!
No Frying Needed: Enjoy the taste of donuts without the hassle and mess of frying—perfect for all skill levels!
Impressive Presentation: These rolls are a showstopper, making them ideal for brunch gatherings or festive occasions.
Versatile Treat: Swap out the jam for your favorite flavors to customize for any event or craving. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy Sunday treat, these Strawberry Donut Rolls are sure to steal the show!
Strawberry Donut Rolls Ingredients
• These delightful rolls are packed with simple yet essential ingredients for maximum flavor and texture!
For the Dough
- Active Dry Yeast – Crucial for that fluffy rise; always check it’s fresh for activation.
- Whole Milk – Ensures the dough is moist; should be lukewarm to properly activate the yeast.
- Caster Sugar – Sweetens the dough while aiding yeast activation; granulated sugar works in a pinch.
- Plain Flour (All-Purpose) – Provides structure to the rolls; avoid self-raising flour to keep the texture just right.
- Fine Salt – Balances sweetness and controls yeast activity; a must for enhancing flavor.
- Large Eggs – Enrich the dough and act as a binder; use room temperature eggs for smooth mixing.
- Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor; almond extract can be a delightful twist.
- Unsalted Butter – The key to a rich, tender brioche; using unsalted gives you better control over seasoning.
For the Filling and Coating
- Strawberry Jam – Sweetly fills the rolls; smooth jam ensures even distribution.
- Egg (beaten for egg wash) – Optional, but gives a beautiful golden finish to the rolls when baked.
- Granulated Sugar – For dusting post-bake, adding sweetness and a delightful crunch.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder – Enhances the sugar coating with fruity flavor and vibrant color; regular sugar is a substitute if needed.
- Butter (melted for coating) – Helps the sugar stick to the rolls for that irresistible crunch after baking.
Enjoy your baking adventure with these Strawberry Donut Rolls, and savor the joy they bring!
How to Make Strawberry Donut Rolls
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Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, mix active dry yeast with half of the lukewarm whole milk and a tablespoon of caster sugar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is alive and kicking!
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Prepare Dough: In a stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, remaining caster sugar, and fine salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture, eggs, and the other half of the milk. Stir everything together until a soft, sticky dough forms.
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Incorporate Butter: Gradually add softened unsalted butter to the dough while mixing. Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth, a sign that your rolls will rise beautifully.
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First Rise (Cold Proof): Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight. This cold rise enhances flavor and makes for easier shaping later on.
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Shape Rolls: Roll out your chilled dough into a rectangle measuring 30 x 48 cm. Cut it into 12 strips and generously spread strawberry jam over each strip, leaving the edges free for sealing.
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Roll and Second Rise: Carefully roll each strip into a scroll shape, ensuring the jam stays inside. Place the rolls on a baking tray, cover them lightly with a towel, and let them rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes until doubled.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and your kitchen fills with the sweet aroma of baking!
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Coat in Strawberry Sugar: After baking, brush the warm rolls with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and freeze-dried strawberry powder to give them a sweet, crunchy coating.
Optional: Serve these rolls warm for a fresh, delightful experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Donut Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh, fluffy rolls with minimal effort on busy days! You can prepare the dough and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours after the first rise. Simply shape the rolls and let them rise for 45 minutes before baking. Alternatively, you can form the rolls and freeze them for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge and let them rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven. For the best flavor and texture, cover the rolls with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade Strawberry Donut Rolls with ease!
What to Serve with Strawberry Donut Rolls?
These delightful rolls are perfect for creating the ultimate brunch experience that tantalizes both the eyes and the palate.
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Fresh Berries: Their natural sweetness and burst of juiciness perfectly complement the strawberry filling in the rolls. A bright medley of colors adds a festive touch, elevating your brunch table.
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Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy and smooth, yogurt provides a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the rolls. It also adds a protein boost, making your meal more balanced. Plus, a handful of granola on top brings in some enjoyable crunch!
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Coffee: The rich, slightly bitter notes of coffee balance the sweetness of the donut rolls effortlessly. Whether it’s a cozy cappuccino or a strong espresso, the combination is simply divine.
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Herbal Tea: Opt for a soothing chamomile or refreshing mint tea for a lighter pairing. The warm, fragrant notes of tea enhance the cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely morning.
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Cream Cheese Glaze: A drizzle of cream cheese glaze not only adds richness but also brings a delightful tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the sweet rolls. You can even sprinkle some crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top for extra flair!
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Ice Cream: Transform your rolls into a gourmet dessert by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The melty creaminess teamed with warm rolls is an indulgent treat that feels like celebration on a plate!
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Mimosas: Sparkling and fruity, mimosas are a great way to add bubbles to your brunch. Their lightness pairs well with the sweetness, making each sip a refreshing complement to the rolls.
Imagine indulging in these Strawberry Donut Rolls amidst a gathering of friends and family, each bite transporting you to delicious memories while creating new ones together.
Strawberry Donut Rolls Variations
Feel free to experiment and make these delightful rolls your own with these fun twists!
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Berry Blast: Swap strawberry jam for raspberry, blueberry, or mixed berry jam. Each variation brings a unique fruity flavor!
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Choco-Nutty: Add chocolate chips and chopped nuts to the filling for a delicious texture contrast and a hint of richness.
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Creamy Glaze: Instead of strawberry sugar, drizzle with a cream cheese glaze for a smooth finish that’s decadently delicious.
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Spiced Sugar: Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the granulated sugar for a warm, aromatic twist that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Citrus Zing: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note that brightens every bite.
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Almond Aroma: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract in the dough for a subtly nutty flavor that enhances the sweetness.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these rolls suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Bake and Stuff: After shaping, fill the rolls with a dollop of cream cheese before rolling to introduce a tangy surprise inside!
Let your imagination run wild—these Strawberry Donut Rolls are a canvas for your creativity!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Donut Rolls
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Yeast Activation Check: Always ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn’t foam after 15 minutes, it’s time to get a new packet.
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Dough Temperature Matters: Make sure your milk is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly; cold milk can stop the yeast from doing its job.
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Gentle Rolling: Avoid rolling your dough too tightly; this helps prevent popping while baking and ensures an evenly soft texture.
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Cold Proof Benefits: Embrace the cold proofing! It develops richer flavors and makes the dough more manageable to shape.
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Sugar Coating Skills: Brush the rolls with melted butter right after they come out of the oven to help the strawberry sugar stick, elevating the taste of your Strawberry Donut Rolls.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Donut Rolls
Room Temperature: After baking, let the rolls cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain softness.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, you can refrigerate the rolls for up to 3 days. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap to retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls after they cool. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, where they will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Strawberry Donut Rolls, reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to revive their soft texture and enhance the flavor.
Strawberry Donut Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of milk should I use for the dough?
Whole milk is ideal for making these rolls as it adds moisture and richness. Ensure the milk is lukewarm, around 35°C (95°F), to properly activate the yeast. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use skim milk, but the texture might be slightly less rich.
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How should I store Strawberry Donut Rolls after baking?
For best results, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to preserve their softness. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days, wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze Strawberry Donut Rolls?
Absolutely! These rolls can be frozen after baking. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
My rolls didn’t rise properly. What went wrong?
If your rolls didn’t rise, the most common culprits are inactive yeast or incorrect dough temperature. Always check that your yeast is fresh by ensuring it foams in the milk-sugar mixture. Additionally, the dough should be warm during the first rise. If it’s too cold, it can hinder yeast activity.
Can I make these rolls with gluten-free flour?
While it’s best to use all-purpose flour for the best texture, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for better structure. The flavor might differ slightly, but they’ll still be delicious! Always check the brand’s instructions for best results.
Homemade Strawberry Donut Rolls: Soft, Sweet Brunch Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix active dry yeast with half of the lukewarm whole milk and a tablespoon of caster sugar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, remaining caster sugar, and fine salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture, eggs, and the other half of the milk. Stir until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Gradually add softened unsalted butter to the dough while mixing. Knead for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Roll out your chilled dough into a rectangle measuring 30 x 48 cm. Cut into 12 strips and spread strawberry jam over each strip.
- Carefully roll each strip into a scroll shape and place on a baking tray. Cover lightly with a towel and let rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes until doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush the warm rolls with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and freeze-dried strawberry powder.
