Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about baking cinnamon rolls from scratch, and when you add a homemade cherry filling, it elevates the experience to a whole new level. The first time I made Cherry Cinnamon Rolls, my family was captivated by the aroma wafting through the house. The fluffy, yeasted dough combined with a luscious cherry filling and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting made for an irresistible treat. These rolls are perfect for a weekend breakfast, a sweet brunch, or even as a dessert. Each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that keeps everyone coming back for more. I love sharing this recipe because it’s not just about the end result; it’s about the joy of baking together and the warm memories created around the table.

Ingredients

Cherry Filling

  • 3 1/2 cups frozen cherries (454g)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
  • 1/4 cup cold water (60g)
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (20g)

Dough

  • 1/4 cup warm water (60g)
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast (6g)
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (180g)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 1/2 cups bread flour (540g)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (3g)
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (57g)
  • 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature (85g)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (260g)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-3 tbsp whole milk (20-60g)

Instructions

Make the Cherry Filling

  1. In a medium pan, combine the frozen cherries and sugar over medium-high heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the cold water and cornstarch until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the cherry mixture and cook until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate while making the dough.

Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for about 15 minutes, or until bubbly and activated.

Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the bloomed yeast, whole milk, granulated sugar, and eggs. Whisk until well combined.
  2. Sift in the bread flour and salt, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Work in the room-temperature butter by hand or with a stand mixer on low speed until incorporated (about 3 minutes).
  4. Knead the dough on medium speed with a dough hook or by hand for about 10 minutes, or until it pulls cleanly from the sides of the bowl.

Assemble and Bake

  1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
  2. Spread the cooled cherry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
  3. Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other to form a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls.
  4. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the room-temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
  3. Gradually add milk until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.

Serve

  1. Let the rolls cool slightly, then spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

  • Servings: 9 large cinnamon rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 360 calories
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (including cooling time)

How to Serve

  • Serve the cherry cinnamon rolls warm, topped with cream cheese frosting.
  • Pair with:
  • A hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.
  • Fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing complement.

Additional Tips

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  2. Flour Measurement: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid adding too much flour.
  3. Cherry Substitution: If cherries are out of season, feel free to use frozen raspberries or blueberries instead.
  4. Dough Rising: Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising; a slightly warmed oven works well.
  5. Frosting Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese frosting for a warm spice flavor.

Recipe Variations

  • Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cherry filling for a crunchy texture.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based yogurt for a completely dairy-free dessert.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of indulgence.
  • Spiced Version: Incorporate pumpkin spice or cinnamon into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast Treat: Perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunches; serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon.
  • Dessert Option: Excellent as a dessert, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Picnic Perfect: These cinnamon rolls are great for picnics or potlucks; they transport well and are sure to please a crowd.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: These cinnamon rolls can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  • Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before rolling and filling.
  1. What can I use instead of fresh cherries?
  • You can use frozen cherries or other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
  1. How do I know when the rolls are done?
  • They should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
  1. Can I use a different frosting?
  • Yes! Cream cheese frosting can be substituted with vanilla buttercream or a simple glaze.
  1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
  • Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a warm oven to retain the softness.
  1. Can I make these rolls vegan?
  • Substitute the eggs with flax eggs, use a plant-based yogurt, and vegan cream cheese.
  1. How should I store leftovers?
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  1. What if I don’t have cornstarch?
  • You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
  1. Can I add spices to the filling?
  • Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a nice warm flavor to the cherry filling.
  1. What is the best way to serve these rolls?
    • They are best served warm, topped with frosting, and enjoyed with coffee or tea.

Conclusion

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate, the tartness of cherries, and the creamy texture of cheesecake. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or a special dessert to impress guests. The process of making these rolls is not only rewarding but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Try this recipe and enjoy the delicious results that will leave everyone craving more!

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Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling


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  • Author: Recipes Tasteful
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 9 large cinnamon rolls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This recipe combines a rich, fluffy yeasted dough with a homemade cherry filling and a smooth cream cheese frosting for a delicious twist on classic cinnamon rolls.


Ingredients

Scale

Cherry Filling

  • 3 1/2 cups frozen cherries (454g)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
  • 1/4 cup cold water (60g)
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (20g)

Dough

  • 1/4 cup warm water (60g)
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast (6g)
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (180g)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 1/2 cups bread flour (540g)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (3g)
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (57g)
  • 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature (85g)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (260g)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 13 tbsp whole milk (20-60g)

Instructions

  • Make the Cherry Filling:
    • In a medium pan, combine the frozen cherries and granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring continuously.
    • In a small bowl, mix the cold water and cornstarch until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the cherry mixture and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate while making the dough.
  • Activate the Yeast:
    • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for about 15 minutes, or until bubbly and activated.
  • Make the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, add the bloomed yeast, whole milk, sugar, and eggs, whisking until well combined.
    • Sift in the bread flour and salt, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
    • Work in the room-temperature butter by hand or with a stand mixer on low speed until incorporated (about 3 minutes).
    • Knead the dough on medium speed with a dough hook or by hand for about 10 minutes, or until it pulls cleanly from the sides of the bowl.
  • Assemble and Bake:
    • Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
    • Spread the cooled cherry filling over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
    • Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other to form a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls.
    • Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
    • In a medium bowl, beat together the room-temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth.
    • Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
    • Gradually add milk until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.
  • Serve:
    • Let the rolls cool slightly, then spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For an elegant touch, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped cherries or nuts on top of the frosting before serving.
  • These rolls can be made ahead of time; simply prepare and assemble, then refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hr
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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