Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for the filling)
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for the frosting)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Stir in the sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little extra flour as needed.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. While the dough is rising, mix the strawberries, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
6. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16x12 inches.
7. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border.
8. Sprinkle the strawberry mixture generously over the buttered dough.
9. Starting with the long side, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
10. Arrange the rolls cut side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes until they are slightly puffy.
11. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown.
12. While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by beating together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
13. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting over the top.
14. Serve warm and enjoy your delectable strawberry cinnamon rolls.