Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
• Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add the milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Roll Out the Dough:

• On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

1. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

• In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

1. Assemble the Rolls:

• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Evenly distribute the diced strawberries over the cream cheese filling.

1. Roll and Slice:

• Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
• Once rolled, slice the log into 1-inch thick pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, cut side up.

1. Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

1. Serve:

• Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. For an extra treat, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for the Perfect Rolls

• Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give the best flavor, but if you’re out of season, frozen strawberries work just as well. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in your rolls.
• Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour as needed while rolling it out.
• Customization: Feel free to experiment with other fillings! You can try mixing in chocolate chips, blueberries, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cream Cheese Rolls are a delightful treat that brings joy to any table. Their sweet, creamy filling paired with the tender, flaky dough makes for an irresistible combination. Perfect for any occasion, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful experience of baking these scrumptious rolls!