My little sister flies in from Pittsburgh this morning, and I couldn’t be more excited. If all goes as planned, she’ll get to meet her niece during her visit home. Yesterday, in an attempt to pass the time, I made these soft and sweet strawberry “cinnamon” rolls. There actually isn’t a teaspoon of cinnamon in this recipe…but the end result is most closely related to that morning favorite. A rich sweet dough is rolled out on a floured surface, strawberry jam is brushed across the dough, diced strawberries are sprinkled over top, and then the entire rectangle is rolled up into a long log. A serrated knife cuts into the rolled log, giving you twelve to fourteen beautiful strawberry rolls.
You’ll want to make these soon. Strawberries are luscious and sweet right now. Ryan and I have been buying those big, 2 lb containers. We have no problem eating them all…and we wonder what we’ll do when Lucy starts eating strawberries. We’ll have to get a membership to Costco (they sell gigantic 4 lb containers!)
And yes, the day has arrived. We’ve made it to 40 weeks.
Cravings: Chips and salsa. Ryan and I found a delicious salsa vendor at the farmer’s market. We are eating copious amounts of salsa. Pasta with marinara sauce and cheese. Hard-boiled eggs. Banana pancakes (still).
Health: For being 40 weeks pregnant, I feel amazing. I do have moments of discomfort (namely, getting out of bed), but for the majority of my day I feel strong and present. I’m walking mornings and evenings now, and the movement works out any kinks in my hips or back. My cervix is ready to go (according to the doctor) but we’re still waiting for those first “real” labor pains to begin. For the past few nights, I’ve felt the twinges of possibility. Cramps, longer contractions, etc…but then I fall asleep and wake up feeling fine. I have an induction date set for July 1st (eek) but we’re hoping and praying she’ll come on her own time.
Fears/Hopes: I feel more prepared for labor and delivery than I have throughout my pregnancy. And I can’t say it’s because I’ve obtained enough facts and tidbits of birthing knowledge. Instead, this confidence feels more primal. It’s as if my body is already beginning to take over, to push my “mind” and all of its anxiety aside. I know that our birthing experience will be different than what I imagine, but I also know that my body and her body are capable. Ryan and I woke up this morning and imagined how beautiful it will be to have our daughter resting between us. We imagined touching her tiny fingers, running our own weather-worn hands across her still perfect skin. There will be long nights and hard days but we’ll be living and breathing and growing together. It is an understatement to say we’re ready for her arrival.
Family: As I mentioned, my sweet little sister is arriving today. She’ll be in town until Saturday night, so we’re hoping that this baby decides to come soon. My mom and older sister are here in Colorado Springs, as is Ryan’s mom and brother. We’re thrilled to have the support and love of so many family members. In sad news, please keep Ryan’s cousin, Kevin, in your prayers. Sweet Kevin is in a coma after sustaining a brain injury due to an undiagnosed AVM. The prognosis has not been good, and we’re all heartbroken for him, his girlfriend, and his family. Kevin is only in his mid-twenties and has so much life to live. This terrible tragedy reminds me of the road we walked down in March of 2011. My oldest sister’s birthday is this Sunday. Pam passed away two years ago after a horrible car accident. So although we’re surrounded by the hope and joy of new life right now, we’re also reminded of its fragility.
I hope and pray that this will be my last pregnancy update. Next week, I could be sharing baby pictures! I want to thank you all for your love and support during this journey. Each message and comment brightens my day.
Strawberry “Cinnamon” Rolls
6 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
3/4 cup buttermilk
3 eggs
1/2 teaspoon raspberry extract (vanilla will work fine too)
4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast (1 package)
1/2 cup sugar
Filling:
1/2 cup strawberry jam (room temperature)
1 cup finely diced strawberries
Topping: (Optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup granulated sugar
In a large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the melted and cooled butter, the buttermilk, and the eggs. Stir in raspberry extract. Set aside. In the bowl of your stand mixer, mix together flour, salt, yeast, and sugar with a large wooden spoon. Attach the dough hook. Slowly pour in the liquid and knead for 10 minutes, until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms. The dough should stick to the bottom but not the sides. Add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed.
Remove dough from bowl and knead a few times on a clean counter. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and allow to rise in a warm, draft-free place for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
On a lightly floured surface, pat dough into a 12 x 16 inch rectangle. Spread jam over the surface of the dough and then sprinkle with chopped strawberries. Begin rolling the long (16 inch) side of the rectangle towards you, forming a tight log. You’ll have to “tuck” the strawberries into the roll as you go…they have a tendency to want to sneak out. Once you have a tight roll, seal the seam by rolling it back and forth. Using a serrated knife, gently cut into the log. You should cut a total of 12-14 strawberry rolls. Place rolls in either two 8 inch cake pans or a 13 x 9 inch pan. Make sure pans are greased well with butter. Cover pans with plastic wrap and allow rolls to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours. The rolls should nearly double in size and touch each other. If desired, sprinkle with sugar and chopped walnuts.
Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until rolls are just lightly golden. Allow to cool just slightly before removing from pan. Strawberry rolls are best enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee. Many people prefer a glaze with their rolls (I, however, hate the taste of powdered sugar). So if you want to make one…feel free. I like to enjoy these on their own.
I’m so sorry to hear about your cousin 🙁
Your sweet rolls look fabulous- and one of these days I’ll figure out how to make a great gluten-free sweetroll dough that doesn’t weigh like a brick!
Monet- you will be great. Let your body take over, stay hydrated and relaxed. One image that helped me was remembering that the ‘pain’ of labor is largely because we’re told by others it’s supposed to hurt. That by staying relaxed and working with your body’s powerful energy surges bringing your Lucy down and closer to you it doesn’t hurt. You’re right about letting your primal nature take over. You may vocalize, or want to move around, or- for you maybe bake a cake! Just kidding- although I did have a friend who cooked during the first 6 hours of her labor because it kept her mind occupied and since she was standing it helped the baby’s position!
Trust your body and your instincts in the moment and you and Lucy will be in each others arms in no time! Can’t wait to see pics!
Oh I am just so excited for you guys and so happy to hear you’re feeling good! I too will pray she comes all on her own – not that it’s the end of the world if she doesn’t but I know it’s what you would prefer. Sending good vibes your way! And so sorry to hear about your older sister and Ryan’s cousin. Both are horrific. Glad you have such a little angel to look forward to to brighten your days!!
What an exciting time! I wish you all the best for a smooth delivery and a healthy & beautiful baby…very soon!
These “cinnamon rolls” look amazing, btw. I’ve been on a strawberry binge lately too and these look so delicious with the walnuts on top.
It would be so wonderful if Lucy made her appearance while your sister is visiting! I am so looking forward to seeing pictures of your sweet baby. 🙂
It is all so exciting!! The recipe, your sister, 40 weeks! So excited to see little Lucy!
How exciting, Monet! Enjoy your time with your sister. Hopefully little Lucy decides to make her appearance while Noelle is around! These strawberry rolls are gorgeous… they look so soft, sweet and perfect for enjoying with family. Fingers crossed for you, my dear! xox
Monet,
What a beautiful post. Thanks for sharing your journey. Thinking of you!
Monet, what an exiting few last days these are – visit from your sister, Lucy´s imminent arrival and of course these delcious strawberry buns!
Whishing you all the very best for these last few days, tons of strength and love!
Thinking of you and Lucy, take care my dear friend!
You look ready! And how sweet that your sister will (hopefully) get to be there to meet her neice!
I’m so sorry about Kevin and I’ll keep him in my prayers <3
Good Luck, and enjoy your last few days of sleep!
Thinking of Kevin and all of you …
Soon, little Lucy will be in your arms! I loved the sentence about your weather-worn hands against her still perfect skin – some of the miracle of baby there 🙂 I will cross my fingers and toes that she arrives during your little sister’s visit. And that this is the last update for a little while! Not that I don’t adore the updates, but that would mean your girl is here! 🙂
Hugs in remembrance of your sister’s birthday *HUGS*
Sending lots of love and prayers for you and Kevin, and the rest of your family. You are so close!
Yes, strawberries are at their peak! Hoping to find some local ones this week to turn into jam.
I must start with You look amazing!!! I pray for Kevin, I hope everything will be ok. And I think about you two and Lucy as well. I know that you’re feeling all the support coming from your readers. We’re trying to have a little Mary 🙂 And I so hope that I’ll look like you during my pregnancy 🙂 Big hug from Berlin.
Any day now!!! We know it sounds weird but we can’t wait to meet you bundle of joy!!! Enjoy this precious time!!!
So sorry to hear about Kevin.. We will keep him in our prayers….
I’ve heard it said that first time mom’s usually go past 40 weeks (though I was induced at 39, so I can’t speak from experience) but it does seem cruel and arbitrary to give a “due date” that isn’t when the baby is actually expected. Thinking good labor-full thoughts for you.
I’ve been checking daily to see if little Lucy has arrived! I’ll continue to send positive thoughts your way.I’m also really sorry to hear about Ryan’s cousin. That is terrible.
Enjoy your time with your sister!
Monet, I cannot believe that you still baking…
The rolls look great, love the fruity strawberries in it…yum!
Good luck and I look forward to meet the baby 😀
Great recipe! And I hope to see baby pics next time, too. Or whenever is convenient for you and Lucy, of course (maybe she’d camera shy, so she’s taking her time preparing for her closeup). We can go through one of those 2 pound containers of strawberries in no time, too. Anyway, fun post, and best of luck!
Hope the timing works out with your sister’s visit, and that the next update is a new baby brought into the world safe and healthy. These rolls look amazing.
Your post is so heartfelt, it brought tears to my eyes, and I ain’t a mom either. I wish you all the luck, but as you said your body is prepared to do what it needs to do.. God designed us to give birth, so it must be the right thing. I hope she comes out on her own too. Girl, just rest and enjoy these next few days, I give you so much credit for even baking these cinnamon rolls. LOL! Your hubs must be thrilled.
Crossing my fingers and toes we all get to enjoy baby pics next week! Every time I go to our farmers market I feel I NEED to pick up strawberries…..they are that yummy! Your rolls sound amazing! Have fun with your sister, Hugs, Terra
I can feel your excitement as well as anxiety of the wait, happened to me 3 times lol! You look gorgeous, pregnancy certainly suits you! And I wish I can have some of those lovely rolls for breakfast too!
I can’t believe you’re still baking at this stage – and homemade cinnamon (or strawberry) rolls of all things! These look amazing! Wishing you and your family all the best during this exciting time!
When you start cleaning the house like crazy (nesting) be on guard because Lucy’s arrival won’t be far off 🙂 I’m impatiently waiting to see the first picture of Lucy! Best wishes – just in case you go before you post again 🙂
Oh Monet, sorry to hear about your cousin and your oldest sister. I’m really hoping that Kevin pulls through – what a devastating loss it would be for such a young man to pass. As for the baby, things sound like they’re moving along! I hope this is your last pregnancy update too and that the next time you post, Lucy will have joined you and your Hubs. I can’t believe you’re still baking incredible things like these rolls at 40 weeks – you’re super woman!
Hi Monet, love the cinnamon rolls and I can’t wait to see your baby!
Congrats on 40th week! You look fabulous, Monet! Everything will be fine! I hope to hear your good news before I’m leaving for my vacation. I’ve been anxious about your delivery too. 😀 YOur strawberry cinnamon rolls look so good. My strawberry monsters (they are 7 and 5) eat crazy amount of organic strawberries from Costco. 😉
Hi Monet,
The strawberry rolls looks amazing, I will have to try using fresh strawberries the next time.
Looking forward to your good news soon, am actually been thinking about you every so often, wondering whether has Lucy made an appearance yet.
So sorry to hear about Kevin. Will keep him in my prayers for a quick recovery.
Take care.
Those strawberry cinnamon rolls sound amazing! I need this in my mornings!!
And crossing my fingers that you’ll be headed into labor at some point this weekend!! So excited for you.
You’ll do amazing Monet! Birth is such a life changing experience. I can’t wait to meet little Lucy!
Monet,
You are just so beautiful. Your inner spirit only matches your physical presence. And Lucy!! Oh my what a joyous and blessed couple you and Ryan are, have been, and will have a wonderful future together as a family with Lucy in tow.
Love you my friend,
Mike
I’m so very excited for you, Monet. Praying that Lucy will make her arrival just as soon as your sister does!
Blessings,
Mary
So sorry to hear about Ryan’s cousin, your family really doesn’t deserve any more heart ache. I hope little Lucy arrives soon! These rolls look delicious!
First, these “cinnamon” rolls sound fantastic! I like regular cinnamon rolls but I think I’d actually like these strawberry ones even better! I hope baby Lucy makes her debut so very soon – I can’t wait to see pictures : )
it seems so fitting that you, being a baking artisan, should bake this baby to full term perfection…so awesome. Any minute now….you got this girl!!!
You sure make me proud of mamas everywhere. GREG
Monet,
Sorry to hear about Ryan’s cousin. I will keep him in my prayers.
Hopefully,Little Lucy will make her appearance, when your ister is here. You are 40+ wks., and more than ready. I can’t wait to see her darling pics.
I just got my first box of “local” strawberries, which were grown across the road from our subdivision. I can’t wait to dive into them.
A close friend passed unexpectedly on Monday and we are still in shock. It is terrible when a young life is taken before its time. I will pray for R’s cousin. And thinking of you at this amazing time of your life!
Sending much love your way. My sister arrived in Australia this morning from New York. She won’t get to see a new family member but we’re having a terrific time.
Thinking of you both and you’re right about your body taking over. Listen to it and do what you know is right. You’ll always know. 🙂
Hi Monet,
Just wanted to drop by and wish you the very best of luck through the final days of your pregnancy. Fingers crossed it all goes well and you and Ryan will have a new delivery soon 🙂
I’m grown now, with children of my own. Although we’re not able to make it to the berry patch every year, when we can, we get out there to pick our share of fresh strawberries. The kids love homemade strawberry jam, and they know that for fresh jam, we need to get fresh berries. And while we slowly move our way along the row, picking only the reddest berries, I know that they are busy filling their bellies more than their baskets. And I smile.
Overpriced tacos aside, the trip has been a wildly enjoyable adventure so far, and we’re not even two weeks deep. There’s so much I want to write about – so much I have written about, but I need some time to sort it through. Time to collect my thoughts and clean up grammatical errors and run on sentences and all of those other things I forget to keep in check when I’m pouring the unorganized contents of my brain into Microsoft Word. We’ve got a handful of days left in the UK before we catch the chunnel to Belgium, where I plan on exhausting all efforts in attempts to eat my weight in Belgian dark chocolate. From there we head to Paris for a week full of space invader spotting, fancy art, and – you guessed it – more chocolate. I’m really looking forward to getting back to the place that ignited my love for travel, and to see the City of Light in all its summer glory. Because I’ve heard it’s pretty great.
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These yummy Cinnamon Sticky Buns only take 10 minutes of prep work. I’m not kidding. (Rhodes Frozen Roll Dough is going to lend us a helping hand. Please don’t judge me too harshly. We are going for simple and easy, remember?) The frozen roll dough is placed in a bundt pan with a heavenly concoction of butter and sugar poured right over the them. The rolls rise (for 6-8 hours) while you are nestled snug in your bed. When you wake up in the morning, pop the pan into the oven to bake…and warm Cinnamon Sticky Buns are yours to be had, ladies and gentlemen. Not the EXACT replica of Cinnamon Rolls , but pretty darn close.
What do you get when you combine banana bread with cinnamon rolls? These incredible Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls! A cinnamon roll and banana bread in one, how could these not be good? Then when they are slathered generously with cream cheese frosting and finished off with toasted nuts, all I can say is wow yum! This is breakfast done right. Enjoy and be sure to eat them warm.
I need those rolls in my life! Freak’n brilliant. Love me some rhubarb and strawberry combo.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread cooled strawberry filling all over the dough. This part is very tricky and VERY MESSY. I cannot emphasize how messy this can get. At first I was hesitant to post this recipe, but what’s a little mess in the kitchen? I apologize in advance, but I assure you the mess is well worth it. These rolls are too delicious and deserved to be shared.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread cooled strawberry filling all over the dough. This part is very tricky and VERY MESSY. I cannot emphasize how messy this can get. At first I was hesitant to post this recipe, but what’s a little mess in the kitchen? I apologize in advance, but I assure you the mess is well worth it. These rolls are too delicious and deserved to be shared.