Cranberry Orange cinnamon rolls

Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. With the tartness of cranberries and the bright citrus flavor of orange zest, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime. The homemade dough is soft and pillowy, the filling is flavorful and aromatic, and the orange glaze ties everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
• Zest of 1 orange
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
• Zest of ½ orange

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
5. Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Mix filling ingredients: In a small bowl, combine chopped cranberries, orange zest, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Soften the butter: Ensure the butter is spreadable for easy application on the dough.

3. Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 12×18 inches.
2. Spread the filling: Evenly spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cranberry-orange mixture on top, leaving a 1-inch border on one long edge.
3. Roll up the dough: Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Seal the edge by pinching it closed.
4. Cut into rolls: Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal rolls.

4. Second Rise and Bake

1. Arrange rolls: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round cake pan, leaving a little space between each roll.
2. Second rise: Cover with a towel and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
3. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

5. Make the Orange Glaze

1. Mix glaze ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more orange juice if needed.

6. Glaze and Serve

1. Glaze the rolls: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before drizzling the orange glaze generously over the top.
2. Serve warm: Enjoy your Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls while they’re warm and gooey.

Tips and Variations

1. Use fresh cranberries: Substitute dried cranberries with fresh or frozen ones. If using fresh, chop them finely and mix with a little extra sugar to balance the tartness.
2. Add nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a crunchy texture.
3. Make ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the fridge overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning.
4. Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of holiday flavors into a delicious treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying cinnamon rolls for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. The soft dough, tangy filling, and citrusy glaze create a perfect balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds.