These Strawberry Donut Brioche Scrolls are soft, buttery rolls filled with strawberry jam, baked to golden perfection, and then rolled in strawberry sugar—creating a flavor and texture reminiscent of a classic strawberry jelly donut, minus the frying. With a fluffy enriched brioche base and a sweet, fruity crust, these scrolls are fun to make and even more delightful to eat. Perfect for weekend baking projects or a special brunch treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Brioche Dough:

• 10g active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 240ml whole milk (lukewarm)

• 65g caster sugar (superfine)

• 540g plain (all-purpose) flour

• 1 tsp fine salt

• 2 large eggs (room temperature)

• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

• 140g unsalted butter (room temperature, cubed)

• 1 tsp vegetable oil (for greasing)

For the Scrolls:

• 240g strawberry jam

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 150g granulated sugar

• 10g freeze-dried strawberry powder

• 1 tbsp melted butter

Directions

1. Make the Brioche Dough:

• Activate the yeast: Mix yeast with half the milk and 1 tbsp of sugar. Let sit for 15 minutes until foamy.

• In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.

• Add yeast mixture, eggs, vanilla, and remaining milk. Mix until dough forms.

• Gradually add butter while mixing. Beat for 10–15 minutes until dough is elastic and pulls from sides of bowl.

• Do the windowpane test: Stretch a small dough ball—if translucent without tearing, it’s ready.

• Transfer to a greased bowl, cover with wrap, and refrigerate for 3 hours for cold proofing.

2. Shape and Fill the Dough:

• Punch down and roll dough into a 30×48 cm rectangle. Trim edges.

• Slice dough into twelve 2.5 cm (1 inch) strips.

• Spread strawberry jam evenly over the strips.

• Roll each strip into scrolls and place on a lined baking tray with space in between.

• Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 45 minutes until puffy.

• Optional: brush scrolls with egg wash before baking.

3. Bake and Coat:

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

• Bake scrolls for 20–25 minutes until golden. Tent with foil if browning too fast.

• Mix granulated sugar and freeze-dried strawberry powder to make strawberry sugar.

• Brush baked scrolls with melted butter and roll in strawberry sugar to coat all sides.

• Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrients

Per scroll (makes 12):

• Calories: 410 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 69g

• Protein: 7g

• Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Sugar: 30g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 229mg

• Cholesterol: 68mg

• Vitamin C: 12mg

• Iron: 3mg

The Magic of Brioche

At the heart of these scrolls is brioche, a dough known for its rich texture and luxurious flavor. Enriched with eggs, butter, and sugar, brioche is soft and pillowy, with a golden hue that signals indulgence. It is often associated with French baking traditions, where it forms the base of both savory loaves and sweet pastries. Using brioche for this recipe transforms the scrolls into something that feels artisanal, almost bakery-quality, yet still achievable at home. Its soft crumb creates the perfect canvas for the strawberry jam, absorbing sweetness while maintaining structure and fluff.

The Donut Connection

Donuts hold a special place in the hearts of many, but the process of frying can often feel intimidating or heavy. By re-creating the flavor and texture of a strawberry jelly donut in baked form, these scrolls offer a more approachable way to enjoy the same nostalgic treat. The jam filling provides that signature fruity burst, while the strawberry sugar coating gives each bite the sparkle and crunch reminiscent of a sugared donut exterior. It’s a playful nod to tradition, honoring the flavors of donuts while eliminating the need for frying.

The Role of Strawberry Jam

Strawberry jam is the star of the filling, infusing each scroll with vibrant sweetness and a touch of tartness. Its fruity character complements the buttery brioche, preventing the rolls from becoming overly rich. The jam seeps slightly into the dough as the scrolls bake, creating swirls of flavor that surprise with every bite. Unlike fresh fruit, jam holds its structure well in baking, ensuring consistent results. It brings the joy of strawberries into the recipe in a way that feels timeless and comforting.

The Strawberry Sugar Finish

What sets these scrolls apart from standard jam-filled pastries is the strawberry sugar coating. By mixing granulated sugar with freeze-dried strawberry powder, the recipe achieves a sweet, tangy, and aromatic crust that clings to the butter-brushed exterior. This coating does more than add flavor—it enhances texture, offering a delicate crunch that contrasts with the soft interior. It also provides a visual appeal, giving the rolls a rosy blush that makes them irresistible on any table. It’s the final touch that transforms a simple bake into something show-stopping.

Perfect for Weekend Baking

Some recipes are made for weekdays, when speed and efficiency are everything, while others are perfect for weekends, when baking can be savored as an experience. Strawberry Donut Brioche Scrolls fall into the latter category. The process of proofing brioche, rolling out the dough, filling it with jam, and coating the finished product in strawberry sugar is both therapeutic and rewarding. It’s the kind of recipe that invites you to slow down, enjoy the craft of baking, and anticipate the joy of sharing fresh, homemade pastries with loved ones.

An Ideal Brunch Centerpiece

When it comes to brunch, presentation matters as much as flavor, and these scrolls deliver on both fronts. Their golden-brown tops and sugar-dusted edges make them as beautiful as they are delicious. Served on a platter alongside coffee, tea, or even a celebratory glass of champagne, they instantly elevate the table. Their playful nod to donuts keeps things fun, while their brioche base adds sophistication. Whether for a family brunch, a holiday spread, or a celebratory gathering, these scrolls are the kind of dish that sparks conversation and admiration.

A Treat Worth Sharing

Food often carries its greatest joy when shared, and these scrolls are the definition of shareable. Baked as individual portions, they are easy to serve and distribute, whether at home, at a gathering, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Their whimsical donut inspiration appeals to both kids and adults, making them a universally loved treat. Offering someone a fresh Strawberry Donut Brioche Scroll is more than just sharing food—it’s sharing comfort, creativity, and care.

Nutritional Insights

While these scrolls are indulgent, their nutritional profile reflects the balance typical of enriched dough pastries. Each scroll delivers carbohydrates for energy, protein from the eggs and flour, and fats from the butter that provide satiety and richness. The sugar coating and jam add sweetness, making them a treat best enjoyed in moderation. However, they also offer small doses of nutrients like vitamin C and iron, thanks to the strawberries and flour. Like any dessert, their true value lies in the happiness they bring, reminding us that balance in food includes joy as much as nutrition.

Customizations and Variations

One of the strengths of this recipe is its adaptability. While strawberry jam and strawberry sugar are a winning combination, the concept can easily be adapted with other flavors. Raspberry or apricot jam offers a different fruity twist, while cinnamon sugar could transform them into rolls reminiscent of classic churros. Chocolate hazelnut spread, lemon curd, or even spiced apple filling would also work beautifully. The brioche dough is a flexible base that can carry countless variations, making this recipe a canvas for creativity.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of these scrolls lies in the harmony of their elements. Brioche provides the soft, buttery foundation. Strawberry jam infuses sweetness and fruitiness. The strawberry sugar delivers crunch, color, and a playful nod to donuts. Together, these components create layers of flavor and texture that are both nostalgic and new. The process itself is structured yet forgiving, offering bakers confidence while still leaving room for creativity. It’s a recipe that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and feels achievable, which is why it works so well for home bakers of all skill levels.

Conclusion

Strawberry Donut Brioche Scrolls embody the magic that happens when classic recipes collide. With the rich softness of brioche, the fruity burst of strawberry jam, and the sweet crunch of strawberry sugar, they combine indulgence with playfulness in every bite. They are perfect for weekend baking projects, brunch celebrations, or simply as a special treat to brighten an ordinary day. More than just a pastry, they are an experience—a chance to connect with tradition while enjoying a creative twist. Above all, they remind us that baking is about joy, both in the making and in the sharing.