Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

These fluffy Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are filled with fresh blueberries and a warm cinnamon swirl, then topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for a delicious breakfast treat or brunch indulgence, they quickly became a family favorite in my household. The combination of sweet blueberries and the rich, gooey cinnamon filling creates a delightful experience that brings smiles to everyone at the breakfast table. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or served as a special treat during holidays, these rolls never fail to impress.

Ingredients

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Frosting

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk along with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your rolls rise beautifully.

Make the Dough

To the yeast mixture, add the remaining sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour. This step is essential for achieving fluffy rolls.

Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the rolled dough with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Finally, scatter the fresh blueberries on top, pressing them gently into the dough to keep them in place.

Form the Rolls

Starting from the long end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using unscented dental floss for clean cuts. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between them to allow for rising.

Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again until puffed, about 30 minutes. This will give them that light and airy texture we love.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. If the tops are browning too quickly, tent them loosely with aluminum foil.

Make the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy frosting is the perfect finishing touch for your rolls.

Finish

Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and spread the frosting over the warm rolls before serving. The heat will slightly melt the frosting, making it even more delicious.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour + 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a generous layer of frosting on top.
• Pair with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Offer them at brunch gatherings or family get-togethers.
• Package them as a sweet gift for neighbors or friends.

Additional Tips

1. Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries: While fresh blueberries are best for flavor, you can use frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
2. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
3. Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, or your rolls will be dense.
4. Frosting Variations: Feel free to add lemon zest or almond extract to the frosting for a unique twist.
5. Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
• Change the Berries: Substitute blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan Option: Use almond milk and substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use vegan butter.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra sweet touch.
• Pair with a side of whipped cream for a dessert-like treat.
• Offer a side of fruit salad to balance out the sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the baked rolls for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
• Reheating: To reheat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?

• Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

1. What can I use instead of cream cheese?

• You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.

1. How do I know if my yeast is active?

• The yeast should froth and bubble after being mixed with warm milk and sugar. If it doesn’t, your yeast may be expired.

1. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

• Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

1. What can I do if my rolls don’t rise?

• Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the dough is kept in a warm place to rise.

1. How can I enhance the cinnamon flavor?

• Increase the amount of cinnamon in the filling to your preference.

1. Can I add more fruit?

• Absolutely! Just ensure that you don’t overload the filling to keep the rolls from becoming too wet.

1. How should I store leftover rolls?

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

1. Can these rolls be served cold?

• Yes, they can be enjoyed cold, but they are best served warm.

1. What’s the best way to slice the rolls?
   • Using unscented dental floss is recommended for a clean cut without squishing the dough.

Conclusion

These Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful addition to any breakfast table. Their fluffy texture, combined with the sweet and tangy burst of blueberries, creates a memorable treat that everyone will love. With their simple preparation and delicious outcome, they are sure to become a staple in your home. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a make-ahead option for busy mornings, these rolls are guaranteed to bring joy and satisfaction to your breakfast or brunch. Give them a try, and you might just find your new favorite recipe!

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