These sweet roll ups feature a luscious blend of fresh strawberries and cream cheese spread on flattened bread, then rolled tightly. The rolls are brushed with melted butter, coated in cinnamon sugar, and pan-fried until golden and crisp. Perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
The kitchen smelled like warm sugar and toasted bread the first time I tried these roll ups on a rainy afternoon.
I remember how quiet the house got when everyone took that first bite, followed by the sound of happy crunching.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Make sure it is truly soft to avoid lumps in your filling.
- Fresh strawberries: Dice them small so they distribute evenly and cook quickly.
- White sandwich bread: Removing the crusts helps the bread roll out thinly without tearing.
- Unsalted butter: Melting it makes it much easier to brush evenly over the surface.
- Ground cinnamon: Mixing it with sugar ensures every bite is perfectly spiced.
Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- Mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in the diced strawberries to keep them intact.
- Flatten the bread:
- Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice until it is thin and pliable.
- Assemble the rolls:
- Spread a tablespoon of filling over the bread and roll it up tightly.
- Butter the rolls:
- Brush melted butter generously over all sides of each roll up.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar:
- Roll the buttered pieces in the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Cook to golden:
- Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp on all sides.
These became my go to midnight snack after a long week, bringing a little sweetness to quiet moments.
Getting the Texture Right
Rolling the bread thin is crucial because it allows the edges to get crispy while the center stays soft.
Filling Variations
While strawberries are classic, you can easily swap in other fruits or a layer of jam for different depths of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These are best enjoyed straight from the pan while the filling is still warm and melty.
- Pair them with a cold glass of milk.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for dessert.
I hope these sweet roll ups bring a little joy to your table just as they have to mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other fruits?
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Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or thinly sliced bananas for variety.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for best results.
- → Can I bake these instead of frying?
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Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.
- → What can I serve with these?
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These roll ups pair well with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.
- → Can I use whole wheat bread?
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Yes, you can use whole wheat bread, but the texture may be slightly denser. Ensure the bread is fresh for the best results.