Nothing beats the cozy feeling of filling your kitchen with the scent of freshly baked treats, and this Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe does exactly that. Bursting with vibrant cranberry tang and the sunny brightness of orange zest, these sweet rolls strike the perfect balance between tender dough and fruity bursts. Whether you’re preparing a special breakfast or an indulgent snack, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe plays a key role, whether it’s lending tenderness, adding sweet and tart flavor, or creating that irresistible golden crust. These simple but thoughtful ingredients come together to make magic in your oven.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure that makes the rolls fluffy and soft.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Helps the dough rise beautifully for that perfect airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed: Gives the dough moisture and tenderness for soft rolls.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a velvety crumb to the rolls.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to the soft, delicate texture.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped: Bursting with tartness, these add vibrant color and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Brings citrus brightness and aroma to every bite.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing): Sweetens and softens the finish with a smooth glaze.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (for icing): Infuses the icing with refreshing citrus notes.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. This blend will create the perfect base for your dough and ensure even distribution of flavors and rising agents.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. The warmth and richness of this mixture will help activate the yeast and add softness to the rolls.
Step 3: Make the Dough
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Stir and then knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, showing it’s ready to rise and develop its airy texture.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Cover your dough and place it in a warm spot for about 1 hour. This resting time lets the yeast work its magic, doubling the dough’s size and creating lightness.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
Roll the risen dough into a rectangle, then evenly sprinkle chopped fresh cranberries and orange zest over the surface. This layer will deliver refreshing bursts of flavor inside each roll.
Step 6: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to lock in the filling. Slice into 12 equal rolls to ensure each one has plenty of cranberry and orange goodness.
Step 7: Second Rise
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them, and let them rise again for another 30 minutes. This step makes them extra soft and fluffy.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and deliciously puffed up. The smell will let you know they’re almost ready!
Step 9: Glaze with Citrus Icing
Make a simple icing by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice, then drizzle it generously over the warm rolls. This final touch adds sweetness and a lovely citrus glaze that complements the fruity filling.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a few whole cranberries and a bit of additional orange zest on top of the icing. This adds visual appeal and a fresh zing that wakes up the senses.
Side Dishes
These sweet rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea. For a hearty breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or creamy yogurt with honey for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try pulling apart the rolls for a casual, shareable dessert or place them in a beautiful woven basket lined with a colorful napkin to make any gathering feel cozy and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep the rolls soft and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolls right after slicing by wrapping them tightly and placing them in the freezer. When ready, thaw and let rise before baking for fresh-from-the-oven goodness anytime.
Reheating
Warm leftover rolls briefly in the oven or microwave. A quick 15-20 seconds in the microwave under a damp paper towel keeps the rolls moist and soft as if freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries work well, but you might want to soak them in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up and prevent dryness in the rolls.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter to keep it allergy-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty richness that complements the cranberry and orange flavors beautifully.
How long do the rolls stay fresh?
While best enjoyed within the first day or two, storing them in an airtight container helps maintain freshness for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment is perfect for this recipe and can save you some elbow grease while kneading to get that smooth dough.
Final Thoughts
Making the Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe is a joyful experience that rewards your kitchen with irresistible aromas and a delicious treat. Whether for holidays, brunch, or an everyday indulgence, these rolls bring a cozy, bright twist to sweet baking that’s sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try and share the love with anyone lucky enough to taste them!
Print
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are a delightful twist on classic sweet rolls, featuring fresh cranberries and zesty orange flavor combined in a soft, fluffy dough. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these rolls are topped with a sweet orange-infused icing that adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Icing
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup warmed milk, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, and 2 large eggs until fully blended.
- Make the Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir and knead the mixture until it forms a smooth and elastic dough, which may take about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-7 minutes with a mixer.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for approximately 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Filling: Roll the risen dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape. Evenly spread the chopped fresh cranberries and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of orange zest over the dough.
- Form Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, creating a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 even rolls.
- Second Rise: Place the sliced rolls into a greased baking dish, spaced slightly apart. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, until puffy.
- Bake Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Make the Icing and Serve: While the rolls are warm, mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons orange juice to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle the icing over the rolls before serving for a sweet and tangy finish.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries and chop them finely for better distribution in the rolls.
- If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used but thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Cover the dough properly during rising to prevent drying out.
- For an extra soft texture, brush the rolls with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Icing can be adjusted in thickness by adding more powdered sugar or orange juice as desired.
