Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a breakfast treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with a fruity, tangy twist, these Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect choice! Soft, fluffy, and bursting with the natural sweetness of raspberries, this recipe offers a delightful variation on the traditional cinnamon roll. Perfect for special occasions, brunch, or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, these raspberry-infused rolls are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for desired consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, and then sprinkle the yeast on top. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 16 inches by 12 inches. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving about 1 inch on each edge. Scatter the fresh raspberries evenly on top of the filling.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one long edge. Slice the dough into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are close together.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes, or until puffy.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.

Step 8: Drizzle the Glaze

Once the raspberry cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, fruity, and cinnamon-scented perfection!

Tips for Perfect Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls

1. Fresh or Frozen Raspberries: You can use fresh raspberries or frozen raspberries for this recipe. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the rolls.
2. Make Ahead: These rolls can be prepared the night before. After slicing the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.
3. Customize the Glaze: For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a few teaspoons of orange zest to the glaze for a citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the raspberries.

Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls

These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of both worlds: the rich, warm spiciness of cinnamon and the fresh, tart burst of raspberries. The soft, fluffy dough complements the sweet filling, while the cream cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself to a special breakfast, these rolls are a delicious way to start the day.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering a fruity burst of flavor alongside the warm, comforting taste of cinnamon. With a simple dough, sweet filling, and creamy glaze, these rolls are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Serve them up at your next family gathering, holiday brunch, or as a special treat just for yourself. Enjoy the perfect combination of sweetness, spice, and fresh fruit with every bite!

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Serving and Storage Tips for Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve these raspberry cinnamon rolls warm. The gooey cream cheese glaze melts into the rolls, enhancing the soft, fluffy texture and fruity flavor. You can microwave leftover rolls for 20-30 seconds to warm them up.
2. Pair with a Drink: Raspberry cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or even a latte. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a mimosa would also complement the fruity and rich flavors.
3. Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, serve the rolls on a platter with extra glaze drizzled on top or a sprinkling of fresh raspberries. You can also garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
4. Make a Breakfast Spread: These rolls are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Serve them alongside other morning favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, or fresh fruit for a complete and indulgent spread.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the rolls within 2-3 days, you can store them at room temperature. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or place the rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
2. Refrigeration: To store the rolls for longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.
3. Freezing: If you’d like to store the rolls for an extended period, you can freeze them. After baking, let the rolls cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
4. Freezing Unbaked Rolls: For even more convenience, you can freeze the unbaked rolls before the second rise. After slicing the rolls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, let the rolls thaw overnight in the fridge, then allow them to rise for about 30 minutes before baking as usual.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your raspberry cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven or save them for later indulgence!

1. Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the dough to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the texture of your cinnamon rolls. Fresh raspberries work best, but frozen ones will still give you great results!

2. How do I store leftover raspberry cinnamon rolls?

To store leftover raspberry cinnamon rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave them for 20-30 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing and kneading the dough, cover it tightly and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature, then continue with the rolling and filling steps. This method is perfect for making fresh cinnamon rolls without having to start from scratch on the day you plan to serve them.

4. Can I make these raspberry cinnamon rolls without the cream cheese glaze?

Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can skip the cream cheese glaze or substitute it with a simple powdered sugar glaze or even a drizzle of honey. However, the cream cheese glaze adds a rich, tangy finish that complements the fruity raspberries beautifully.

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