The moment I pulled these Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls from the oven, an intoxicating sweetness filled the air, making it impossible not to smile. This delightful recipe combines the bright flavors of cranberries and zesty oranges, wrapped in fluffy dough that’s sheer perfection. Whether you’re gathering loved ones for a festive holiday brunch or just treating yourself on a cozy morning, these rolls promise to be a showstopper. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they can also be made ahead of time, making them a stress-free addition to your celebrations. The sticky glaze that drizzles over them adds the final touch of indulgence, ensuring each bite is a joyful explosion of flavor. Are you ready to elevate your brunch game with this irresistible treat?
Why Make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a sweet and tangy filling that’s hard to resist.
Festive Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these rolls make a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests, elevating any brunch setup.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll enjoy baking without the stress, even if you’re a home chef.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them the night before, allowing you to savor your time with family on those busy mornings.
Gooey Goodness: The warm, sticky glaze drizzled on top adds an extra layer of indulgence, making your taste buds sing with delight!
Looking to try more festive flavors? Check out these delicious Cranberry Orange Snowball cookies or a warm batch of our Cranberry Brie Tart to enrich your holiday spread!
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to both dough and filling; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutions necessary.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor; vegan butter works for a dairy-free option.
- Active Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise; instant yeast can make preparations quicker.
- Milk – Provides moisture and tenderness; consider using non-dairy milk as a substitute.
- Eggs – Binds the dough and enriches it; flax eggs can be used for a vegan alternative.
For the Filling
- Cranberries – The star of the show, offering a delightful tartness; use fresh or frozen cranberries.
- Orange Juice and Zest – Elevates the flavor of the filling and glaze; bottled juice can replace fresh if needed.
- Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Clove – Spices that infuse warmth and flavor; adjust quantities based on personal preference.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet finish for the glaze; adjust milk addition for desired thickness.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a depth of flavor to the glaze; almond extract is a lovely twist to consider.
Get ready to bring the delightful flavors of these Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls to your holiday table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls
Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (about 110°F), 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 packet of active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Next, add 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 beaten eggs, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix in 4 cups of all-purpose flour until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Rise
After kneading, transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, which will take approximately 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it has expanded noticeably and feels puffy to the touch.
Step 3: Filling Preparation
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups of cranberries, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of orange juice, zest from one orange, and 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the cranberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 4: Roll Assembly
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out to a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread 1/4 cup of softened butter over the dough, ensuring an even coat. Then, evenly distribute the cooled cranberry filling across the surface. Roll the dough tightly from one long edge, creating a log, and pinch the seam to seal.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each roll. Cover the dish with a towel and allow the rolls to rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, until they’ve puffed up and are touching each other slightly.
Step 6: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the cranberry orange sweet rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and feel light to the touch. The delightful aroma of the filling will fill your kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness that’s about to be served.
Step 7: Glazing
While the rolls are baking, make the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes after baking, then drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls, creating a sweet finishing touch.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls
-
Chill Filling: Ensure your cranberry filling is completely cool before spreading it on the dough to prevent melting the butter.
-
Balanced Filling: Start with a modest amount of filling when rolling; you can add more as necessary to avoid overflowing.
-
Messy Is Charming: Don’t fret if your rolls look a bit uneven; they’re perfectly delightful as long as they taste great.
-
Yeast Proofing: Always check that your yeast is fresh by proofing it in warm milk; it should bubble up within 10 minutes for optimal dough rising.
-
Proper Rise: Allow the dough to double in size during both rises, ensuring fluffy and airy rolls, essential for perfect Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls.
-
Extra Glaze: For an indulgent twist, double the glaze recipe for a sweeter finish drizzled over your rolls!
Storage Tips for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep the rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and freshness.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, for up to 1 week. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Freezer: These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and gooey.
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make these sweet rolls uniquely yours!
-
Nutty Bliss: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch. Their earthy flavor beautifully complements the sweetness of cranberry and orange.
-
Dried Fruit Twist: Substitute dried cranberries or cherries if you’re craving a sweeter filling. Their chewy texture lends an enjoyable contrast to the fluffy rolls.
-
Citrus Burst: Try a lemon or lime glaze instead of orange for a truly refreshing take. The bright notes will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
-
Spice It Up: Add a sprinkling of ground ginger or cardamom to the filling for an extra warmth and depth. These spices perfectly enhance the holiday aroma wafting through your kitchen.
-
Zesty Infusion: Blend some fresh ginger into your cranberry filling for a subtle kick. This will create a lovely, zesty finish in every bite—just what your holiday brunch needs!
-
Coconut Delight: Mix in shredded coconut with the filling for a tropical twist that’ll surprise and delight your guests, adding a chewy texture and tantalizing flavor.
-
Cream Cheese Swirl: Incorporate a layer of sweetened cream cheese as a filling for added richness and a decadent touch. It makes each roll indulgently creamy!
-
Heathen of Heat: For those who love a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your filling. It’ll create an unexpected and exciting contrast to the sweet and tangy flavors.
No matter which variation you choose, these Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls will brighten your table and spread festive cheer! And if you’re looking for more delicious cranberry recipes, you might enjoy these tasty Cranberry Apple Sweet potatoes or the delightful White Chocolate Orange treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking for a time-saving solution! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. After the first rise, simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature (about 30 minutes), and proceed with the assembly and second rise. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 3 days; just bake them frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, freshly baked rolls any day, with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls?
Enjoying a batch of fresh rolls is just the beginning; let’s create a full holiday feast that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart.
-
Rich Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee is a perfect companion, enhancing the sweet, tangy flavors of your rolls. Consider pairing it with a hint of cinnamon for a cozy twist.
-
Citrus Salad: A refreshing citrus salad with segments of grapefruit and orange complements the rolls’ flavors while adding a vibrant, zesty contrast.
-
Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory balance that perfectly pairs with the sweetness of the rolls, creating a well-rounded breakfast experience.
-
Savory Bacon: Crispy bacon introduces a delightful crunch and savory depth, making the breakfast table even more inviting and indulgent.
-
Mulled Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider brings an autumnal touch to your brunch, infusing the atmosphere with a holiday spirit that enhances your meal.
-
Maple Pecan Topping: Try drizzling some maple syrup infused with toasted pecans on top of the sweet rolls for an extra layer of texture and flavor that adds a festive flair.
-
Cream Cheese Spread: A tangy cream cheese spread on the side allows guests to customize their rolls, enhancing the flavor with its velvety creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
-
Homemade Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits provides a cooling contrast that balances the warmth of the rolls and brings a healthier option to the table.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a sweet ending, serve the rolls warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cool treat melts into the rolls, creating a decadent dessert experience.
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
You can use fresh or frozen cranberries for these rolls. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them; simply add them directly to the filling mixture while cooking. Fresh cranberries will give you that bright tartness, while frozen cranberries tend to be a bit sweeter.
How should I store leftover rolls?
To keep your Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them wrapped tightly for up to a week. Just remember to reheat them gently before enjoying!
Can I freeze these sweet rolls?
Absolutely! These rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it’s likely due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date. When blooming the yeast, the milk should be warm (about 110°F), not hot, as temperatures above 120°F can kill the yeast. If all else fails, try adding a pinch of sugar during the blooming process to give it a little extra boost.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Sure thing! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. After punching down the dough, cover it and place it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise again before proceeding with rolling and baking. This way, your morning can be stress-free!
Are there any dietary considerations?
If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Use vegan butter and non-dairy milk to make it dairy-free. Additionally, instead of eggs, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) to bind the dough.
Heavenly Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls for Your Holiday Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine 1 cup of warm milk, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 packet of active dry yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 beaten eggs, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix in 4 cups of all-purpose flour until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, until it doubles in size.
- In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of cranberries, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of orange juice, zest from one orange, and 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool after the cranberries break down and the mixture thickens.
- Punch down the risen dough gently and roll it out to a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread 1/4 cup of softened butter over the dough, then evenly distribute the cooled cranberry filling.
- Roll the dough tightly from one long edge, creating a log, and pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown on top and light to the touch.
- Whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls after they cool for a few minutes.
Leave a Reply