If you’re craving a sweet, vibrant treat that fills your kitchen with the delightful scent of spices and citrus, look no further than this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. These rolls combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with zesty orange and warm cinnamon swirls, creating a perfect balance of flavors nestled in soft, fluffy dough. Whether you’re serving a holiday brunch or simply want to brighten up an ordinary morning, this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will quickly become a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role—from the tang of the cranberries to the fragrant orange zest and comforting cinnamon that wrap around tender dough.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and softness when kneaded properly.
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast: This magical ingredient helps the dough rise, making the rolls airy and light.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and helps activate the yeast.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and richness.
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F): Wakens the yeast and adds moisture to the dough for a tender crumb.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates richness in the dough and buttery layers inside the rolls.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice that beautifully harmonizes with orange and cranberry.
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries, chopped: Adds bursts of tartness and texture, brightening each bite.
- Zest of 1 orange: Infuses citrusy brightness and fragrance complementing the cinnamon and cranberries.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For a sweet, smooth icing that perfectly finishes the rolls.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by warming your milk to about 110°F—warm enough to encourage yeast activity but not so hot it kills it. Combine the warm milk with sugar and active dry yeast, then let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This foaming is the yeast waking up, signaling that your rolls will rise beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Once your yeast mixture is ready, mix it with flour, salt, softened butter, and cinnamon. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—a little effort here will pay off with soft, fluffy rolls. Then, place the dough in a greased bowl to rise for an hour, letting it double in size. Watching it puff up is very satisfying and promises tender rolls.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface to prepare for the filling. Spread softened butter generously over the surface, then sprinkle your chopped cranberries and orange zest evenly. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, aiming for even thickness to ensure uniform baking. Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces and place them in a baking pan. This step is where the magic of flavor layering happens, so take your time to spread everything evenly.
Step 4: Rise and Bake
Allow the rolls a second rise for about 30 minutes—this final proofing ensures they’re light and springy. Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and an instant-read thermometer shows 190°F internally. The aroma will fill your kitchen with cozy, inviting notes.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
After baking, dress your cinnamon rolls with a simple powdered sugar icing or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting to add sweetness and a creamy texture. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some orange zest or a few whole cranberries on top. These garnishes elevate presentation and flavor, making the rolls irresistible at first sight.
Side Dishes
Pair these cranberry orange cinnamon rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea for a serene morning moment. If you’re planning a brunch, fresh fruit salad or scrambled eggs complement the sweetness beautifully without overpowering it. The combination feels balanced, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve these rolls family-style in a rustic wooden board or stack them on a decorative cake stand. You can also individually wrap rolls with a ribbon for delightful homemade gifts. Presenting Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe in a thoughtful way adds to the warm, heartfelt experience of sharing this dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft. They remain moist thanks to the buttery dough but are best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these rolls either before the second rise or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve their soft, fluffy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave individual pieces for 20 seconds. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh, with the fruit and citrus notes coming alive once warmed.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe and lend a concentrated tartness. Just chop them finely so they distribute evenly in each roll.
Is there a substitute for orange zest?
If you don’t have fresh oranges, you can use a small amount of orange extract instead. About half a teaspoon will add citrus flavor but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the delicate balance.
Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Yes! A stand mixer fitted with a dough hook saves time and effort while kneading. Mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 5 minutes on medium speed.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, the yeast may be inactive due to expired yeast or incorrect milk temperature. Always ensure milk is warm (around 110°F) but not hot, and check your yeast’s freshness.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch that pairs well with cranberries and cinnamon. Sprinkle them evenly with the fruit and zest before rolling.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe will light up your baking adventures with its joyful twist on a classic favorite. With each swirl bursting with fresh fruit, vibrant citrus, and warming spices, these rolls make mornings feel extra special. So roll up your sleeves, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly delicious and heartwarming.
Print
Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these festive Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls featuring a soft, cinnamon-spiced dough filled with zesty orange and tangy cranberries. Perfectly tender with a sweet powdered sugar glaze, they’re an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Filling
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries, chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- Butter for spreading (approximately ¼ cup, softened)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Warm the milk to 110°F, combine it with sugar and active dry yeast in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbles form, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, salt, softened butter, and ground cinnamon. Then pour in the foamy yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover it. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape Rolls: Roll the risen dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the chopped cranberries and orange zest on top for the filling. Tightly roll the dough into a log and slice it into 12 even pieces, ensuring uniform thickness to allow even baking. This step takes approximately 15 minutes.
- Second Rise and Bake: Arrange the cinnamon rolls spaced on a baking tray or pan. Let them rise a second time for 30 minutes to become puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and an internal temperature of 190°F is reached. Once baked, drizzle with powdered sugar glaze while warm.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for a tart burst or dried cranberries for a sweeter filling.
- Make sure the milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast; 110°F is optimal.
- You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it after the first rise to bake fresh rolls the next day.
- For a richer glaze, add a splash of orange juice or vanilla extract to the powdered sugar.
- Ensure even slicing so all rolls bake uniformly.
