1. Prepare the Dough

The foundation of any great cinnamon roll is its dough, and this recipe is no exception.

• Heat the Milk: Begin by warming the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s warm to the touch but not boiling. Stir in the margarine or butter until melted, then let the mixture cool to lukewarm. This step ensures the yeast will activate properly without being killed by excessive heat.
• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2¼ cups of flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first helps distribute the yeast evenly, ensuring a well-risen dough.
• Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and water to the dry mixture, followed by the lukewarm milk mixture. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.
• Knead the Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Knead for about 5–7 minutes on a lightly floured surface. A well-kneaded dough will feel soft and pliable but not sticky.
• Rest the Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out later.

2. Make the Filling

While the dough is resting, it’s time to prepare the delicious strawberry filling.

• Spread the Jam: Once the dough is rolled out into a rectangle (about 15×10 inches), evenly spread the strawberry jam over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. The jam acts as the adhesive for the cinnamon and strawberries.
• Add Cinnamon and Strawberries: Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the jam, followed by the fresh strawberry slices. The cinnamon adds warmth, complementing the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

3. Assemble the Rolls

• Roll the Dough: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it closed. This step ensures the filling stays intact during baking.
• Cut the Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Dental floss is particularly useful for achieving clean cuts without squishing the dough.
• Prepare the Pan: Arrange the rolls, cut side up, in a greased 11×13-inch baking dish. Leave some space between the rolls to allow for expansion during the rise.

4. Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size. This second rise is crucial for achieving soft, fluffy rolls. While waiting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

5. Bake the Rolls

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top. The aroma of baking cinnamon and strawberries will fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

6. Make the Icing

While the rolls cool slightly, prepare the icing:

• Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Whisk until smooth. Add more milk, a little at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
• Drizzle Over the Rolls: Spoon or pipe the glaze over the warm rolls. The glaze will melt slightly, seeping into the crevices for added sweetness.