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If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a warm, fluffy pastry bursting with fresh fruit flavor, then this Strawberry Donut Rolls Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These delightful rolls combine the tender crumb of a classic donut with the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries and a luscious vanilla glaze that ties it all together like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re making breakfast more special or craving a treat that feels homemade and irresistible, these strawberry donut rolls deliver that perfect blend of soft, sweet, and slightly tangy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Strawberry Donut Rolls Recipe is simple because the ingredients are straightforward yet pack a punch in taste and texture. Each component works together to create that perfect dough, fresh fruity flavor, and an irresistible glaze finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough that gives structure and softness.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for dough): Adds a gentle sweetness and feeds the yeast for rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast: Essential for that light and fluffy dough.
- 3/4 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and tenderness.
- 1 large egg: Provides structure and a golden color.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries: Brings juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries): Helps release the strawberries’ natural juices.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The base of the smooth vanilla glaze.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk or cream: Adjusts the glaze consistency to your liking.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional): For brushing rolls to add an extra buttery finish.
- Oil for frying (or baking instructions below): To get the classic golden crust on your rolls.
How to Make Strawberry Donut Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate Your Yeast
Begin by pouring warm milk into a large bowl, then sprinkle in the yeast along with a tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until a foamy layer forms on top — this means your yeast is alive and ready to do its magic!
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
Next, incorporate the egg, softened butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough comes together, then transfer it to a floured surface for kneading. Keep working the dough for 5 to 8 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic—it’s such a satisfying step where you really feel the dough come alive beneath your hands.
Step 3: First Rise
Place your dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Set it aside in a warm spot to rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour. This creates that fluffy texture you crave in every bite of your strawberry donut rolls.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Once risen, gently roll out your dough to about 1-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or glass to cut the dough into neat circles. Let these rounds rest for 10 minutes to relax the dough, making the final texture even tenderer.
Step 5: Fry or Bake to Perfection
Heat oil to 350°F and carefully fry the rolls until they turn golden brown on both sides—around 1 to 2 minutes each. If you prefer a lighter alternative, simply bake them at 375°F for 15 minutes until fluffy and lightly browned. After cooking, drain on paper towels to keep the exterior crisp and delightful.
Step 6: Macerate the Strawberries
While your rolls cool slightly, toss the chopped fresh strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This sweetens the fruit and draws out their natural juices, creating a juicy topping that’s bursting with fresh strawberry flavor.
Step 7: Whisk the Vanilla Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk or cream to make a smooth, pourable glaze. Adjust the liquid to get that perfect drizzle consistency—it should cling to the rolls without running off too fast.
Step 8: Assemble and Serve
Drizzle the warm rolls generously with the vanilla glaze, then spoon the macerated strawberries over the top. For an extra touch of indulgence, brush melted butter over the rolls before glazing. Serve them warm for the ultimate comforting treat or let cool to enjoy the flavors melded and mellowed.
How to Serve Strawberry Donut Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Add fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar to give your strawberry donut rolls a bright, fresh finish. A sprinkle of crushed pistachios or sliced almonds adds a wonderful crunch and pop of color as well.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte to enhance their sweetness. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait complements their richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging these rolls on a cake stand layered with more fresh strawberries and edible flowers for a stunning centerpiece. For an unexpected twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream for a dessert-inspired flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover strawberry donut rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps preserve their softness while keeping the glaze intact.
Freezing
You can freeze unglazed donut rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add glaze and strawberries fresh to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Warm your rolls gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked softness and lets the glaze slightly melt into the rolls once again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and flavor, but if frozen fruit is all you have, thaw and drain them well before macerating with sugar to avoid excess moisture making the dough soggy.
Is it necessary to fry the rolls, or can I bake them instead?
Baking is a fantastic alternative for a lighter version. The rolls won’t have quite the same crispy exterior as frying, but they will still be soft, fluffy, and delicious with a lovely golden finish.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature, then proceed with shaping and cooking the rolls.
What if I don’t have vanilla extract for the glaze?
You can skip the vanilla or substitute it with a splash of almond extract or a teaspoon of citrus zest to add a delightful twist without losing flavor complexity.
How do I make sure my yeast activates properly?
Use warm milk that’s about 100 to 110°F—too hot and it can kill the yeast, too cold and it won’t activate. The foamy surface after resting is your sign that the yeast is happily working.
Final Thoughts
Getting into the kitchen to make this Strawberry Donut Rolls Recipe is like inviting joy and comfort on a plate. The combination of soft, airy dough, sweet strawberries, and creamy glaze is simply irresistible, making it perfect for any occasion that calls for something a little special. I encourage you to dive in and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find a new favorite treat to share with those you love.
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Strawberry Donut Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These strawberry donut rolls are fluffy, soft yeast rolls filled with fresh macerated strawberries and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. They can be fried to golden perfection or baked for a lighter option. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful dessert treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for dough)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
Strawberry Filling
- 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
For Cooking
- Oil for frying (or use baking option)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: To the yeast mixture, add the egg, softened butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape Rolls: Roll the risen dough out to about 1-inch thickness and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass. Allow the rounds to rest for 10 minutes to relax the dough.
- Cook Rolls: Heat oil to 350°F if frying. Fry the rolls for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Alternatively, bake the rolls on a greased baking sheet at 375°F for 15 minutes or until golden.
- Macerate Strawberries: While rolls cool slightly, toss chopped strawberries with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Let them sit for 15 minutes to release their juices and become syrupy.
- Prepare Glaze: In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream until smooth. Adjust the liquid to achieve a drizzle-able consistency.
- Assemble: Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Spoon the macerated strawberries on top. Serve immediately or after rolls have cooled for a delicious treat.
Notes
- You can bake the rolls instead of frying for a lighter option.
- Melted butter in the glaze adds richness but is optional.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate yeast properly.
- Store leftover rolls covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
