A luscious strawberry-cream cheese filling rolled in soft bread and toasted to golden perfection. These roll ups are easy to make, requiring just 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they can be customized with other berries or a layer of jam for extra flavor.
There was a rainy Tuesday last month when I needed something bright and warm to chase away the grey gloom outside my kitchen window.
I remember my roommate wandering in, attracted by the smell of cinnamon, and looking genuinely shocked that I had made such a treat with just bread slices.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Softening this to room temperature is absolutely non-negotiable for a silky texture.
- Fresh strawberries: Dice them small so they distribute evenly and cook quickly inside the roll.
- White sandwich bread: Removing the crusts helps the bread flatten without tearing.
- Unsalted butter: Melting this makes it easy to brush every nook and cranny for even browning.
- Cinnamon sugar: This mixture creates that sweet, crunchy shell reminiscent of a churro.
Instructions
- Mix the filling:
- Whip the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until fluffy, then gently fold in the diced berries.
- Prepare the bread:
- Use a rolling pin to flatten each crustless slice until it is thin and pliable like a soft tortilla.
- Assemble the rolls:
- Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over the bread and roll it up tightly from one end to the other.
- Butter and coat:
- Brush the exterior with melted butter and roll the wet bread in the cinnamon sugar until thoroughly covered.
- Toast to perfection:
- Cook the rolls in a hot skillet, turning them often until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on all sides.
Serving these warm on a plate while they are still slightly crunchy became an instant weekend tradition for my coffee breaks.
Fruit Variations
I have experimented with blueberries and even thin slices of banana when strawberries were out of season.
Getting the Crunch
Make sure the cinnamon sugar adheres well to the butter, as that layer is what provides the satisfying texture.
Serving Ideas
A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a beautiful touch.
- Try dipping them in a little warm chocolate sauce.
- A side of whipped cream turns this into a decadent dessert.
- They pair perfectly with a hot cup of black coffee.
Enjoy the simple pleasure of a sweet treat that comes together faster than you can preheat the oven.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different fruit?
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Yes, substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or thinly sliced bananas for variety.
- → Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
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While pan-frying gives a crisp exterior, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until golden, though they may be less crispy.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Store cooled roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
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Prepare the filling and assemble the roll ups ahead, but cook them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → What can I serve with these?
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Serve warm with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or dusted with extra cinnamon sugar for added sweetness.