Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of warm cinnamon rolls wafting through the house, especially when they’re infused with bursts of tangy cranberry and topped with creamy frosting. Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just a treat; they’re an experience that combines sweet, zesty, and comforting flavors in every bite.

Imagine pulling apart a soft, fluffy roll that reveals swirls of bright cranberry and cinnamon, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. These rolls are perfect for holiday brunches or cozy winter mornings when you want to impress family or friends without breaking a sweat. Trust me, your kitchen will be filled with joy as people flock to the source of that irresistible scent.

I still remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls for my family’s holiday brunch. Everyone gathered around the table, eyes wide and mouths watering—definitely a proud moment in my kitchen!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your dough; use unbleached flour for better texture.

• Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh so your rolls rise perfectly; check the expiration date.

• Granulated Sugar: Just a bit sweetens the dough and balances the tartness of cranberries.

• Milk: Use whole milk for richness; it helps create tender rolls.

• Butter: Unsalted butter adds flavor without extra salt; melt it for mixing into your dough.

• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth; don’t skimp on this fragrant spice!

• Dried Cranberries: These provide bursts of tartness; feel free to chop them for smaller pieces.

• Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest enhances flavor; it adds a lovely citrusy aroma.

• Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting; let it soften to blend smoothly with other ingredients.

• Powdered Sugar: For sweetness in your frosting—sifted for lump-free goodness!

• Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates flavors; use pure vanilla if possible for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit until frothy—about 5 minutes. This indicates your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Add Ingredients Together: Mix in melted butter, salt, and eggs until well combined. Gradually add flour while stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Knead Like a Pro: Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you’re feeling fancy, imagine you’re kneading bread at an Italian bakery—pretty impressive!

Let It Rise!: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—around 1 hour. Use this time wisely by preparing yourself some coffee.

Create the Filling: Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread softened butter over it like you’re painting a masterpiece! Sprinkle cinnamon, sugar, dried cranberries, and orange zest evenly across the surface.

Roll Up & Cut**: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the rectangle into a log shape. Slice into equal pieces—usually about 12 works well—and arrange them in a greased baking dish.

Bake to Perfection**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover rolls with a towel while preheating so they can rise again briefly (about 30 minutes). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and irresistible.

Create That Frosting**: While rolls bake, whip together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy like dreams should be!

Now imagine pulling those warm rolls out of the oven—the golden-brown tops glistening invitingly! Allow them to cool slightly before drizzling that heavenly cream cheese frosting on top.

These Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just food—they’re memories waiting to happen! Enjoy every gooey bite as you savor celebrating life’s little joys right from your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the dough first, allowing it to rise while you mix the filling. Roll it out, spread the filling evenly, then roll tightly before slicing. This sequence ensures a fluffy roll with bursting flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for raisins or dried cherries for a twist. Add a touch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for an extra layer of warmth and depth in flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through.

I still remember the first time I made these cranberry orange cinnamon rolls; my friends devoured them and begged me for the recipe! That day was filled with laughter, crumbs everywhere, and promises of future breakfast gatherings.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries in these rolls?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using them.

How do I get my rolls extra fluffy?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and give the dough plenty of time to rise properly.

What can I substitute for cream cheese frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla as a lighter alternative.