Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite treat: Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls! These delightful rolls are not your average cinnamon buns; they bring a burst of tangy cranberry goodness to the table, making them perfect for any occasion. I first discovered this recipe during the holidays when I was looking for something special to impress my family. The sweet cinnamon aroma fills the kitchen as they bake, and trust me, it’s pure magic! The combination of warm, gooey cinnamon and tart cranberries is simply heavenly. You won’t be able to resist devouring them fresh out of the oven!
Ingredients List
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
1/2 cup milk (warm, about 110°F or 43°C)
1/4 cup butter (melted)
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 cup fresh cranberries (chopped if large)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, I love walnuts or pecans)
1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
2 tablespoons milk (for icing, adjust for desired consistency)
How to Prepare Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready to embark on a delicious journey with these Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls! Start by mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl. This is where the magic begins! In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter over low heat until it’s just warm to the touch—don’t let it boil! Once warm, sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Trust me, this step ensures the rolls rise beautifully.
Now, combine the wet and dry ingredients, adding in that lovely egg. Mix until everything is smooth and well incorporated. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and elastic. Then, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. What a wonderful time to brew some coffee!
Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread your fresh cranberries and optional nuts evenly over the surface, and then roll it up tightly from one end to the other. Slice the dough into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover again and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time. Finally, bake those beauties for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
Once they’re out of the oven, mix the powdered sugar and milk for your icing, and drizzle it over the warm rolls. Enjoy every gooey bite!
Tips for Success
Make sure your milk is warm but not hot! Too hot can kill the yeast.
Don’t skip the rising times; they’re essential for fluffy rolls.
If you want an extra burst of flavor, add some orange zest to the filling.
For a fun twist, try using different nuts or adding a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake; ovens can vary, and you want them golden, not overdone!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s an estimate of the typical nutritional values for each Cranberry Cinnamon Roll: about 220 calories, 7g of fat, 3g of protein, and 34g of carbohydrates, including 12g of sugar. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the exact ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries for these rolls. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dough. They’ll still add that lovely tartness, and you won’t lose any flavor!
How can I store leftover rolls?
To keep your leftover Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for about a week. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent them from drying out!
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can totally make these rolls ahead of time! You can prepare the dough, roll it up, and slice it into rolls the day before. Just place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Easy peasy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation means you can whip these up in no time, perfect for busy mornings or surprise guests!
The unique combination of tart cranberries and warm cinnamon creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and refreshing.
These rolls are a delightful twist on a classic, making them a standout treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a cozy brunch.
They’re incredibly versatile; you can customize them with nuts or even a hint of orange zest for an extra zing!
The warm, gooey texture topped with sweet icing is simply irresistible and will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Variations
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch up these Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls! Here are some fun ideas that can take your rolls to the next level:
Pecan Delight: Add chopped pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the soft rolls beautifully.
Orange Cranberry: Mix in some fresh orange zest with the cranberries to give your rolls a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Chocolate Swirl: For a decadent twist, sprinkle mini chocolate chips along with the cranberries before rolling up the dough. You won’t regret this indulgence!
Maple Icing: Instead of a traditional icing, try drizzling your rolls with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup for a sweet, earthy flavor.
Apple Cinnamon: Swap out some of the cranberries for diced apples and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a cozy fall-inspired version.
Nutty Cranberry: Use almond or hazelnut flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nutty flavor and a gluten-free option!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls! Each variation brings something special to the table, ensuring you’ll never get bored.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your delicious Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them; they’ll stay good for about a week when sealed properly. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will bring back that warm, gooey texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness that makes these rolls so irresistible. Enjoy!
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