If you’re craving a sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced treat, this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls with just the right amount of cinnamon spice, brightened with zesty orange and bursts of tart cranberries in every bite. These rolls bring together classic comfort and festive flavors in one unforgettable bake that’s perfect for cozy mornings or special brunches. Trust me, once you try this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but impactful, each one working together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your cinnamon rolls. From the creamy butter to the fresh cranberries, every item contributes to that irresistible bite.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and softness to your rolls.
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast: Essential for that beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart cranberry.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings depth to the dough.
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender and moist.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, buttery crumb and helps with that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: The heart of that cozy cinnamon roll flavor.
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries, chopped: Adds a pop of tartness and chewy texture that’s absolutely addictive.
- Zest of 1 orange: Brings fresh, citrus brightness that perfectly complements the cinnamon and cranberries.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet icing that finishes off the rolls beautifully.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by warming your milk to about 110°F – comfortably warm but not hot. Combine the warm milk with sugar and active dry yeast, then let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy and bubbling. This is a sign your yeast is alive and well, ready to give your dough that wonderful rise.
Step 2: Make and Rise the Dough
Next, mix in the flour, salt, softened butter, and cinnamon with your yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Then place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise for about an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it doubles in size – this step is key for those fluffy rolls we all love.
Step 3: Roll, Fill, and Slice
Once your dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle. Generously spread softened butter over the surface, sprinkle the chopped cranberries and orange zest evenly, and gently roll the dough into a tight log. Slice it into 12 even pieces to ensure they bake uniformly. This step lets you see the beautiful swirls of cranberry and citrus inside each roll.
Step 4: Final Rise and Bake
Let your rolls rise again for 30 minutes so they puff up nicely in the oven. Then bake them in a preheated 350°F oven until golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches around 190°F to ensure they’re cooked perfectly through. After baking, drizzle the powdered sugar icing over the warm rolls for that classic sweet finish.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a little extra orange zest or a few whole cranberries on top of the icing. A dusting of cinnamon or some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add both texture and a rustic look that’s sure to impress.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or even a smooth cup of vanilla latte or hot tea. The bright citrus and warm spice make them a wonderful complement to light, refreshing sides or rich, creamy beverages.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve these rolls sliding out of a cast iron skillet or arrange them on a rustic wooden board to highlight their homemade charm? Wrapping individual rolls in parchment paper tied with twine makes for a delightful gift or party favor. These presentation ideas add warmth and invite guests to dig right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and fresh, perfect for enjoying the next morning or afternoon snack.
Freezing
These rolls freeze wonderfully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you want a cozy treat, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, pop a roll or two in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until heated through and soft again. Adding a tiny dab of butter on top before reheating helps restore that fresh-from-the-oven feel.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Both fresh and dried cranberries work well in this recipe. If using dried, you might want to soak them briefly in warm water or orange juice to plump them up, which keeps them juicy and tender in the rolls.
Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just take it out to come to room temperature before rolling, filling, and proceeding with the second rise and baking.
Can I substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use plant-based butter or margarine to make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free. The flavor will be slightly different, but the texture stays wonderfully soft and tender.
What’s the best way to get the rolls evenly golden?
Make sure your rolls are evenly spaced on the baking sheet or skillet and avoid overcrowding. Baking at 350°F is perfect to get a golden top while thoroughly cooking the inside without burning the outside.
How important is the orange zest in the recipe?
The orange zest is a small touch that makes a big difference. It brightens the whole roll and gives that fresh, citrusy lift that balances the sweetness and spice perfectly, making this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe truly special.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about freshly baked cinnamon rolls, and this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe takes them to the next level with fruity brightness and cozy spice. They’re not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavor and warmth you’ll love sharing with family and friends. So grab your apron and give this recipe a whirl—you’ll be rewarded with batches of delicious joy every time.
Print
Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring tart cranberries and bright orange zest folded into a soft, fluffy dough, then baked to golden perfection and topped with a sweet icing. Perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries, chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- Butter (amount not specified, assumed ¼ cup softened for spreading)
Icing Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Optional: milk or orange juice for thinning (not specified, estimate 1-2 tbsp)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Warm the milk to 110°F, then combine it with the granulated sugar and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, salt, softened butter, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Once risen, roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread a layer of softened butter over the dough, then evenly distribute the chopped cranberries and orange zest as the filling. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, then slice into 12 evenly sized pieces, ensuring consistent thickness for even baking.
- Second Rise and Bake: Arrange the rolled slices on a baking pan and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes to puff up. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden brown and an internal temperature of around 190°F is reached. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare and Add Icing: While the rolls bake, mix the powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or fresh orange juice to create a smooth icing. Drizzle or spread the icing over the warm rolls before serving for a sweet finish.
Notes
- You can use fresh or dried cranberries; if dried, consider soaking them briefly in warm water or orange juice to soften.
- The amount of butter for spreading inside the rolls is not specified; typically, about ¼ cup works well for richness and moisture.
- For the icing, thin powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or orange juice until desired drizzle consistency is achieved.
- Ensure the milk is not too hot when activating yeast to avoid killing it.
- Keep the dough covered during rises to prevent it from drying out.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon in the dough.
