Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Warm the milk, butter & flavoring
- In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, gently warm the milk and butter together until just lukewarm (about 60–90 seconds).
- Stir in the strawberry extract and a few drops of pink food coloring, mixing until evenly combined. The mixture should be warm to the touch but not hot.
Step 2: Make the dough
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook (or paddle to start), combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and granulated sugar.
- Pour in the warm milk–butter mixture, then add the egg. Mix on low to medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until a soft dough begins to form.
Step 3: Knead & rise
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10–15 minutes, until smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
- Lightly oil a medium-sized bowl and place the dough inside, turning once to coat. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Make the strawberry filling
- While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix together the butter, granulated sugar, heavy cream, and finely chopped fresh strawberries until well combined. Set aside.
Step 5: Roll & fill
- Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, keeping the dough thin and even.
- Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the dough, reaching close to the edges. Starting from the long side, roll the dough up tightly into a log.
Step 6: Cut & second rise
- Using dental floss or a sharp knife, cut the dough into evenly sized rolls. Place them into a buttered baking dish, leaving space between each roll.
- Cover and let rise again for about 1 hour, or until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
Step 7: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake for about 28 minutes, or until lightly golden and baked through.
- Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool slightly.
Step 8: Make the cream cheese frosting
- In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add a splash of milk or cream and the vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
Step 9: Frost & serve
- Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls. Serve fresh for the softest texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy within a few days.