Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about waking up to the smell of freshly baked cherry cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. It’s like a warm embrace from the oven, inviting you to indulge in something sweet and delightful. These cherry cinnamon rolls are not just any breakfast treat—they’re a celebration of flavors that will make you want to savor each bite.

Imagine soft, pillowy rolls bursting with a homemade cherry filling, swirled with the perfect amount of cinnamon and sugar. The moment you pull these beauties from the oven, you’ll be greeted by their golden-brown tops and a tantalizing aroma that makes your heart skip a beat. I remember the first time I made these rolls for my family. It was a lazy Sunday morning, and as the rolls baked, my kids eagerly anticipated their favorite breakfast treat. When they finally pulled the rolls from the oven, the smiles on their faces were priceless.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the joy it brings to the breakfast table. You can prepare the dough the night before, making it perfect for those busy mornings when you want something special without the fuss. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones, these cherry cinnamon rolls are sure to impress.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe that combines the sweet, tangy goodness of cherries with the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls. Your kitchen is about to become a cherry-scented paradise!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why you absolutely need to try these cherry cinnamon rolls:

• Easy to Make: Don’t let the idea of homemade cinnamon rolls intimidate you! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be a pro in no time.
• Homemade Filling: The cherry filling is made from scratch, allowing you to control the sweetness and flavor. Plus, it’s packed with juicy cherries that make every bite a burst of deliciousness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a special family breakfast, or just a Saturday treat, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. They’re sure to impress!
• Family-Friendly: These rolls are loved by kids and adults alike. The sweet cherry filling and gooey cinnamon swirls are irresistible!
• Warm and Comforting: There’s nothing quite like a warm cinnamon roll fresh from the oven. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you feel right at home.

Picture this: soft, fluffy rolls filled with a sweet, tangy cherry filling and drizzled with creamy icing. It’s the ultimate sweet treat that will brighten your morning and put a smile on your face!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: About 2 hours (including rising time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: This recipe makes about 12 delicious cinnamon rolls.
• Nutrition Facts:
  • Calories per serving: 320
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious cherry cinnamon rolls:

Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your rolls, giving them that soft, fluffy texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough.
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes your rolls rise.
• 1 cup whole milk: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Gives the dough a lovely buttery flavor.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind everything together.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped: The star of the show, adding a sweet and tart flavor.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: For that rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the cherry flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the overall sweetness and warmth.

Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar: For a sweet, creamy glaze.
• 2 tablespoons milk: To achieve the right consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: For added flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Dough

1. Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F) with the yeast and a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Stir until well mixed. This combination is essential for creating the structure of your rolls.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the melted butter and egg. Mix until a dough begins to form.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed. Kneading develops the gluten, giving your rolls that perfect fluffy texture.
5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is the perfect time to clean up the kitchen and prepare your cherry filling!

Preparing the Cherry Filling

6. Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped cherries, brown sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the cherries start to break down and release their juices, stirring frequently. The mixture should thicken slightly.
7. Cool the Filling: Once the filling is ready, remove it from heat and let it cool while the dough continues to rise. You want the filling to be warm but not hot when you spread it onto the dough.

Assembling the Rolls

8. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure to keep the thickness consistent for even baking.
9. Spread the Cherry Filling: Spread the cooled cherry filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Roll It Up: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it, and try to keep the filling from spilling out. This step is crucial for keeping your rolls intact!
11. Slice the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss (yes, it works wonders!), slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, making sure to leave some space between them for rising.
12. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up. While they rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Baking the Rolls

13. Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when the kitchen fills with that heavenly aroma!
14. Cool: After baking, let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before icing them. This waiting period helps them set and makes them easier to handle.

Making the Icing

15. Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you want a thicker icing, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner consistency, add more milk.

Drizzling the Icing

16. Icing the Rolls: Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls, allowing it to soak into all those lovely crevices. This final touch adds sweetness and makes these rolls irresistible.

How to Serve

These cherry cinnamon rolls are best served warm, fresh from the oven. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them:

• On Their Own: Perfect for breakfast or a snack, just grab a roll and savor the flavors.
• With a Side of Coffee: Pair these rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast experience.
• For Brunch: Serve them as part of a larger brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
• Drizzled with Extra Icing: If you’re feeling indulgent, go ahead and drizzle some extra icing on top for an extra sweet treat!

Additional Tips

To ensure your cherry cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips:

1. Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the dough to rise fully. This step is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture. If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm environment by preheating your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside.
2. Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Both work beautifully! If using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them before cooking; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling based on your preference. If you like it sweeter, add a little more brown sugar.
4. Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Try adding chopped nuts or cream cheese for a unique twist.
5. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

FAQ

1. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

Absolutely! While cherries provide a delightful sweet and tart flavor, you can experiment with other fruits. Fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples can work well. Just keep in mind that the sweetness may vary, so adjust the sugar in the filling accordingly.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before. After kneading, place it in a greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the dough come to room temperature and rise for about 30-45 minutes before rolling it out and adding the filling.

3. How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftover rolls (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature.

4. Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the rolls either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, slice them and place the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise for a few hours before baking. If freezing baked rolls, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

5. What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?

If your dough isn’t rising, check the yeast. Make sure it’s fresh and activated properly by dissolving it in warm milk with a little sugar. If your kitchen is too cold, try placing the dough in a warm spot, like an oven that’s been preheated to the lowest setting and turned off.

Print

Conclusion

These cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are a delightful way to elevate your breakfast game. The combination of fluffy dough, sweet cherry filling, and creamy icing creates a treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet morning or sharing them with loved ones during a gathering, these rolls are sure to bring joy and smiles to everyone at the table.

I hope you find as much joy in making and eating these cherry cinnamon rolls as I do! Each bite is a reminder of the sweet moments in life, whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet morning spent enjoying a warm roll with a cup of coffee.

So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and create a delightful breakfast treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process, the delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen, and the happy faces around the table.

Happy baking, and may your mornings be filled with warmth, sweetness, and cherry goodness!