Irresistible Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are like a sweet hug on a chilly morning. Picture the aroma of warm dough rising, mingling with zesty citrus and sweet cinnamon—a combination that beckons you from your sleepy stupor. Each roll offers a delightful surprise of tart cranberries and creamy frosting, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

These rolls aren’t just delicious; they’re a nostalgic nod to my childhood. Every holiday morning, my family would gather around the kitchen table, eagerly awaiting these freshly baked delights. The laughter, the gooey frosting, and the joy shared over warm pastries created memories that linger long after the last bite. Whether it’s Christmas morning or a simple Sunday breakfast, these rolls promise to elevate any gathering.

It was last Thanksgiving when my cousin Claire took her first bite of these rolls and declared them “life-changing.” I’ll never forget her dramatic gasp followed by uncontrollable laughter as she tried to eat just one more.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: A versatile base for your dough; make sure it’s fresh for best results.

• Granulated Sugar: Just enough sugar adds sweetness without overwhelming other flavors in each roll.

• Active Dry Yeast: Essential for fluffy rolls; ensure it’s fresh to guarantee proper rising.

• Milk: Use whole milk for richness; warm it slightly before adding to activate yeast faster.

• Butter: Melted butter adds moisture and flavor; I recommend using unsalted for better control over saltiness.

• Cranberries: Fresh or dried, either works well; choose plump berries for optimal juiciness and tartness.

• Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest enhances flavor; it brings brightness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key for that warm spice flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight!

• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes for a rich frosting that perfectly complements sweet rolls.

• Powdered Sugar: For frosting sweetness; sift it to avoid lumps for a smooth finish.

• Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for a more robust flavor in both dough and frosting.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast. Warm milk slightly until it’s lukewarm (about 110°F), then add it along with melted butter. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

Knead Until Smooth: Transfer dough onto a floured surface. Knead it vigorously for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This is where you channel all your inner bread-maker vibes!

Let It Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1 hour.

Create the Filling : While waiting, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, and cranberries in a bowl. The aroma is already heavenly as you prepare this magical filling.

Roll It Out & Fill It Up : After the dough has risen, punch it down gently! Roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Spread softened butter on top and sprinkle evenly with your filling mixture.

Shape the Rolls : Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Cut into equal pieces (about 12), placing each roll cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

Bake Them Perfectly : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover rolls again and let them rise while the oven heats up—around 30 minutes should do it! Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Create Your Frosting : While rolls bake, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and fluffy—because what’s better than slathering cream cheese frosting on fresh-baked goods?

Icing Time! : Once your rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled (if you can wait!), drizzle that luscious cream cheese frosting generously over each roll before serving!

Now you have Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting ready to impress everyone at your next brunch or cozy family gathering! Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation while relishing those sweet memories!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making the dough and allowing it to rise while preparing your filling. Once rolled out, spread the cranberry-orange mixture evenly before rolling up tightly. This sequence ensures the best flavor infusion and texture.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch or swapping cranberries with blueberries for different flavors. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg to enhance the aroma and taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, microwave them for about 15-20 seconds for a warm, fresh taste.

Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about the first time I made these rolls. My family couldn’t believe how tasty they were, and their smiles still glow in my memory!

FAQ

What type of flour is best for cranberry orange cinnamon rolls?

Using all-purpose flour provides a tender yet sturdy base for your rolls.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them the night before and refrigerate overnight before baking.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

Add a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting.