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
- In a medium pan, combine the frozen cherries and sugar over medium-high heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- 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.
- Remove from heat and let it 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, granulated sugar, and eggs. Whisk 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 evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- 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 and creamy.
- Gradually 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!
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
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Flour Measurement: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid adding too much flour.
- Cherry Substitution: If cherries are out of season, feel free to use frozen raspberries or blueberries instead.
- Dough Rising: Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to encourage rising; a slightly warmed oven works well.
- 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
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before rolling and filling.
- What can I use instead of fresh cherries?
- You can use frozen cherries or other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
- 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.
- Can I use a different frosting?
- Yes! Cream cheese frosting can be substituted with vanilla buttercream or a simple glaze.
- 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.
- Can I make these rolls vegan?
- Substitute the eggs with flax eggs, use a plant-based yogurt, and vegan cream cheese.
- 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.
- What if I don’t have cornstarch?
- You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
- Can I add spices to the filling?
- Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a nice warm flavor to the cherry filling.
- 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!
PrintCherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling
- 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
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:
- 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