The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Cherry Cinnamon Rolls (Step-by-Step Recipe)

Introduction to Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts or a comforting breakfast treat, cherry cinnamon rolls are a perfect choice. Combining the rich, spicy warmth of cinnamon with the tangy sweetness of cherries, these rolls offer a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll recipe. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday brunch, or a personal indulgence, cherry cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to please.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making soft, fluffy, and flavorful cherry cinnamon rolls from scratch. With tips, variations, and answers to common questions, you’ll be ready to bake like a pro in no time.

Why Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Are a Must-Try Dessert

Unique Flavor Combination: The tartness of cherries complements the sweetness of cinnamon, creating a perfectly balanced flavor.
Versatility: These rolls can be served as a dessert, breakfast, or even a snack.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, cherry cinnamon rolls are always a hit.
Customizable: With variations like cream cheese frosting or chocolate drizzle, you can personalize this recipe to suit any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to gather to make these delightful cherry cinnamon rolls:

For the Dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 tsp salt

For the Cherry Filling:

2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen, thawed)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk (or cream for a richer glaze)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (not too hot) with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Crafting the Cherry Filling

Cook the Filling: In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens.
Cool the Filling: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool completely before using.

Step 3: Rolling and Filling the Dough

Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
Spread the Fillings: Spread softened butter over the dough, followed by an even layer of brown sugar and cinnamon. Top with the cooled cherry filling.
Roll the Dough: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 even rolls.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Arrange the Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
Final Rise: Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Add the Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve.

Tips for Success: Secrets to Soft, Fluffy Rolls

Don’t Overheat the Milk: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let butter and eggs come to room temperature for easier mixing.
Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best texture.
Patience with Rising: Allow the dough to rise fully for light, fluffy rolls.

Variations of Cherry Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

Cherry and Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls

Add a layer of cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist. Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk to create a luscious topping.

Chocolate-Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

Incorporate chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent treat. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can also elevate the flavor. If you love desserts like chocolate cake, this variation offers a rich and indulgent experience.

Vegan Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flaxseed eggs to make these rolls vegan-friendly. Substitute coconut cream for the glaze.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Serving: Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect start to your day. Pairing these rolls with a slice of chocolate cake can create a luxurious dessert spread.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing or fully baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?

A: Yes, canned cherries can be used, but drain them well to avoid excess liquid.

Q2: How do I prevent my rolls from being dry?

A: Ensure the dough rises adequately and avoid overbaking. Adding a pan of water to the oven can create steam for softer rolls.

Q3: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate them, and bake fresh in the morning.

Conclusion

Cherry cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that combines the best of tangy cherries and warm cinnamon spice. With the step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations shared here, you’re well on your way to creating the ultimate dessert or breakfast indulgence. For a truly decadent spread, consider serving them alongside a rich chocolate cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking!

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

Combining the rich, spicy warmth of cinnamon with the tangy sweetness of cherries, these rolls offer a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll recipe. If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts or a comforting breakfast treat, cherry cinnamon rolls are a perfect choice.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Ingredients

Forthe Dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (21/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup cupwarm milk
1/4 cupunsalted butter, melted
2 largeeggs
1/2 tsp salt

For the Cherry Filling:

2 cupspitted cherries (fresh or frozen, thawed)
1/2 cupgranulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp lemonjuice
1 tsp vanillaextract

Forthe Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

1/4 cup unsaltedbutter, softened
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp groundcinnamon

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk(or cream for a richer glaze)
1/2 tsp vanillaextract

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Activatethe Yeast: In a small bowl,combine warm milk (not too hot) with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the yeast. Letit sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Crafting the Cherry Filling

Cook the Filling: In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens.
Cool the Filling: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool completely before using.

Step 3: Rolling and Filling the Dough

RollOut the Dough:On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inchthick.
Spread the Fillings: Spread softened butter over the dough, followed by an even layer of brown sugar and cinnamon. Top with the cooled cherry filling.
Roll the Dough: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Cutthe Rolls: Using a sharp knifeor dental floss, slice the log into 12 even rolls.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Arrangethe Rolls: Place the rolls ina greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
FinalRise: Cover the dish and let the rolls rise foranother 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Add the Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve.

Notes

Tips for Success: Secrets to Soft, Fluffy Rolls

Don’t Overheat the Milk: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let butter and eggs come to room temperature for easier mixing.
Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best texture.
Patience with Rising: Allow the dough to rise fully for light, fluffy rolls.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Serving: Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect start to your day. Pairing these rolls with a slice of chocolate cake can create a luxurious dessert spread.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing or fully baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Keyword Cherry Cinnamon Rolls