Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze

Imagine waking up to the warm, comforting scent of cinnamon rolls—now imagine those rolls bursting with sweet, tart raspberry filling and topped with a zesty lemon glaze that just ties everything together. Yes, I’m talking about Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze, and trust me when I say, this is the perfect breakfast (or dessert!) to make your morning extra special. These cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with a fruity twist that takes them from ordinary to extraordinary. Add the tangy-sweet lemon glaze on top, and you’ve got a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. I promise you won’t be able to stop at just one!

Why You’ll Love Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze

A Flavor Explosion

These cinnamon rolls are packed with flavor! The cozy warmth of cinnamon mingles beautifully with the bright, tart raspberry filling. Then, just when you think it can’t get any better, the fresh lemon glaze adds the perfect citrusy pop to every bite.

The Perfect Morning Treat

Whether you’re looking for a special treat for a weekend breakfast or a festive brunch, these cinnamon rolls are ideal. They’re an elevated version of the classic, and their sweet and tangy twist makes them unforgettable.

Soft, Fluffy, and Delicious

The dough for these cinnamon rolls is incredibly soft and fluffy, making each bite feel like a little bit of heaven. You’ll love the pillowy texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy raspberry filling.

Make Ahead and Freeze-Friendly

These rolls are not only delicious but also super convenient! You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, and bake them when you’re ready for a fresh batch. No one will ever know you didn’t make them that morning!

Customizable for Your Taste

While the raspberry filling and lemon glaze are perfect, you can easily swap the raspberry for other berries like strawberries or blueberries. The glaze can also be adjusted—add more lemon for extra zing or keep it mild for a sweeter finish.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze:

For the Dough

• Flour: The base for the dough, giving it structure and fluff.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast is perfect for creating that soft, fluffy texture.
• Sugar: Just a bit of sugar helps activate the yeast and gives the dough a nice sweetness.
• Milk: Adds richness to the dough and helps it stay soft.
• Butter: For a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs: Help bind everything together and create a tender dough.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

For the Raspberry Filling

• Fresh or Frozen Raspberries: The star of the show! These juicy berries add the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Sugar: To sweeten up the raspberry filling and create a jammy consistency.
• Cinnamon: The warm spice that perfectly complements the raspberries and gives the rolls that familiar, cozy cinnamon roll flavor.
• Cornstarch: To help thicken the filling and keep it from being too runny.

For the Lemon Glaze

• Powdered Sugar: Creates the perfect smooth, sweet base for the glaze.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that tangy, citrusy flavor.
• Milk: To thin the glaze to the perfect drizzly consistency.
• Lemon Zest: For that extra pop of fresh lemon flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s the approximate breakdown for one serving of Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze (based on 12 rolls):

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Sugar: 25g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Potassium: 70mg
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 6% DV
• Vitamin C: 6% DV

These cinnamon rolls are definitely a treat, but they’re worth every bite, especially when you’re craving something indulgent and delicious!

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus resting time for dough)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes (including dough rising time)

Instructions

Let’s get baking and make these mouthwatering Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls!

Make the Dough

Start by warming your milk in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan until it’s just warm to the touch (about 110°F). Add the yeast and a tablespoon of sugar, stirring to combine. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, eggs, and melted butter. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until everything is combined into a dough. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Raspberry Filling

While the dough is rising, make the raspberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the cooled raspberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Roll and Slice

Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the log into 12 even pieces. Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they are close together but not touching. Cover and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The smell will be absolutely heavenly!

Make the Lemon Glaze

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Drizzle and Serve

Once the cinnamon rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before drizzling the lemon glaze over the top. Serve them warm, and enjoy the sweet, fruity, and tangy goodness!

How to Serve Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze

These cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a special occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience:

As a Breakfast Treat

Serve these rolls warm with a side of fresh fruit and a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast that will make your morning feel like a special occasion.

Pair with Yogurt

For a little extra indulgence, pair these rolls with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt on the side. The tangy yogurt balances out the sweetness of the rolls perfectly.

Perfect for Brunch

Bring them to your next brunch gathering! They’ll be the star of the table, and guests will be asking for the recipe. Serve with a variety of other baked goods and a refreshing mimosa for an unforgettable spread.

Great for Dessert

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls also make an excellent dessert. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a sweet, comforting treat.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead

You can prepare the dough and the filling the night before, then assemble and bake the rolls the next morning. Or, you can freeze the unbaked rolls and bake them when you’re ready to enjoy!

Don’t Skip the Glaze

The lemon glaze is what really ties everything together, so don’t skip it! It adds a refreshing tang that complements the rich, buttery cinnamon rolls.

Experiment with Other Fillings

Feel free to swap out the raspberry filling for another fruit or jam you love—blueberries, strawberries, or even apple cinnamon would be fantastic!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen raspberries for the filling?
A1: Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

Q2: How can I make these rolls dairy-free?
A2: You can substitute the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives like plant-based butter and almond milk.

Q3: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can! Prepare them the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them the next morning for fresh, warm rolls.

Q4: Can I use a different type of glaze?
A4: Of course! A simple vanilla glaze or even cream cheese frosting would be delicious alternatives if you’re not in the mood for lemon.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Q6: Can I freeze these rolls?
A6: Yes! You can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just assemble them, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag or container. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.

Q7: Can I make the dough by hand?
A7: Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand—just be sure to knead it thoroughly until it’s smooth and elastic.

Q8: Can I add nuts to the filling?
A8: Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch to the rolls. Just sprinkle them over the raspberry filling before rolling up the dough.

Q9: How can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
A9: If you like a sweeter glaze, simply add more powdered sugar. For a less sweet glaze, reduce the sugar or add a bit more lemon juice for balance.

Q10: Can I make mini cinnamon rolls?
A10: Definitely! Just slice the dough into smaller rolls, about 1-2 inches wide, and bake them for a slightly shorter time—around 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are a show-stopping treat that combines the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the fresh pop of raspberry and a tangy lemon kick. These rolls are perfect for making your morning extra special, and with their soft, fluffy texture and fruity filling, they’re guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these rolls are sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the magic of sweet and tart flavors with every bite!

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