Amid the aroma-filled kitchens of my childhood, the simple pleasure of homemade treats always stood out. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Fluffy Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling, a dish that effortlessly marries the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with the warmth of freshly baked dough. Not only are these rolls a delightful way to celebrate berry season, but they’re also flexible enough to make year-round with frozen cherries. Plus, the soft, buttery texture of these cinnamon rolls will have everyone coming back for seconds! If you’re ready to indulge in a treat that’s both comforting and impressive, stick around! What’s the secret to making these rolls truly special?
What makes these cherry cinnamon rolls special?
Fluffy Texture: The rich, yeasted dough provides a soft and airy bite that melts in your mouth.
Tart and Sweet: A delightful contrast between the tart cherry filling and the creamy frosting brings balance to each roll.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of any level.
Year-Round Delight: Thanks to frozen cherries, you can enjoy these delectable rolls anytime, just like our Cinnamon Roll French recipe!
Impressive Presentation: Serve these rolls warm and watch as they become the star of any brunch or family gathering.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the dough the night before to save time, allowing you to focus on the fun of sharing with loved ones.
Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling
• Frozen Cherries – Adds a tart flavor; can be swapped with jarred sour cherries if needed.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; no substitutes recommended for optimal taste.
• Cold Water – Essential for cooking the filling; don’t skip this step!
• Corn Starch – Thickens the filling; tapioca starch can be used as an alternative.
For the Dough
• Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s not too hot for best results.
• Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the dough; instant yeast is a substitute, but adjust as necessary.
• Whole Milk – Moistens the dough; can be replaced with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Eggs – Adds richness; silken tofu can be used for an egg-free version.
• Bread Flour – Ensures a soft texture; slightly increase amount if using all-purpose flour.
• Salt – Essential for flavor; balances the yeast activity for perfect rise.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich flavor; margarine or non-dairy spread can work as substitutes.
For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy, flavorful frosting; mascarpone is a delightful alternative.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; no substitutions recommended.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the frosting; almond extract offers a unique twist.
• Whole Milk (for frosting) – Adjusts consistency; crucial for achieving your desired thickness.
This Cherry Cinnamon Rolls recipe combines comforting flavors with a cozy aroma, perfect for satisfying both sweet cravings and the desire for something homemade!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffy Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling
Step 1: Prepare Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine frozen cherries, granulated sugar, cold water, and corn starch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool completely while you prepare the dough, ensuring the filling has a perfect consistency for the fluffy cherry cinnamon rolls.
Step 2: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water, ensuring the water is just slightly warm to the touch. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy; this shows that the yeast is active. This step is crucial for achieving the lightness in the fluffy cherry cinnamon rolls, so be patient during this initial rise.
Step 3: Make Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine whole milk, granulated sugar, eggs, and the foamy yeast mixture. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Gradually add the bread flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. To enhance the richness, add melted unsalted butter, folding it into the mixture until fully combined, creating a dough that will rise beautifully.
Step 4: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough onto a generously floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, a sign that the gluten has developed for the rolls’ soft texture. Add flour as needed to prevent sticking, but aim to keep the dough slightly tacky for the best results with these cherry cinnamon rolls.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat the surface lightly in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour. The dough should look puffy and airy, which indicates it’s ready for the next step in making fluffy cherry cinnamon rolls.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches. Spread the cooled cherry filling evenly over the dough, allowing it to come close to the edges for a full-flavored experience in each roll.
Step 7: Shape Rolls
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place these cinnamon rolls spirals facing up in a greased baking dish, ensuring there’s enough space for them to expand during their second rise.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise again until nearly doubled in size, which will take about 30 minutes. They should look puffed and should touch each other, creating those soft and fluffy cherry cinnamon rolls everyone loves.
Step 9: Bake Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and the tops are firm to the touch. The kitchen will be filled with a sweet aroma, drawing everyone in as you prepare to enjoy these warm treats fresh from the oven.
Step 10: Frost
While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by mixing room temperature cream cheese with powdered sugar and whole milk until you reach a creamy consistency. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes before generously frosting them while still warm, ensuring that each fluffy cherry cinnamon roll is a sweet delight.
Expert Tips for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, including milk and eggs, are at room temperature for the best rise and texture in your cherry cinnamon rolls.
- Correct Yeast Activation: Make sure your warm water isn’t too hot, as this can kill the yeast; it should feel comfortably warm to the touch.
- Kneading Technique: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and slightly tacky, which helps create those fluffy, tender rolls everyone loves.
- Warm Rising Environment: Choose a warm, draft-free spot for dough rising. An oven set to the lowest temperature, then turned off, can mimic a cozy environment.
- Even Filling Distribution: When spreading the cherry filling, aim for even coverage to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust the frosting’s thickness by adding more milk for a drizzle effect or less for a thicker spread; both variations are delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Fluffy Cherry Cinnamon Rolls are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and cherry filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the filling, cool it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the dough, allow it to rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, bring the dough to room temperature and let it rise for about 30 minutes before rolling it out and adding the filling. This way, you’ll enjoy fluffy, delicious cinnamon rolls that taste just as fresh and delightful, making your morning routine a breeze!
Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to make this recipe uniquely yours by exploring these fun variations and substitutions!
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Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cherry filling for an aromatic flavor twist.
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Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts with the filling for a delightful texture contrast. The nuts will complement the soft dough perfectly!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative to cater to a dairy-free diet.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute bread flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour and make sure your yeast is gluten-free for delicious rolls everyone can enjoy.
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Cherry Variations: Instead of frozen cherries, use fresh cherries or sour cherries for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with fruit will keep your taste buds guessing!
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Frosting Exchange: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try a chocolate ganache for a rich and decadent twist, or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for a lighter touch.
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Roll ‘Em Up: Consider making cinnamon rolls by omitting the cherry filling and replacing it with a brown sugar and cinnamon blend for a classic cinnamon roll experience.
With ideas like enjoying these fluffy creations alongside Garlic Bread Rolls or indulging in some crispy Brown Egg Rolls, you’re set for a cozy culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover cherry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and softness.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the rolls in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in a microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and let rise before baking.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover rolls, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave until warm for a quick treat.
What to Serve with Fluffy Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling
To elevate your breakfast or brunch experience, consider these delightful pairings that perfectly complement the sweet, tart essence of cherry cinnamon rolls.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth and buttery texture provides a savory balance to the sweetness of the rolls.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a burst of color, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Crisp Bacon: The salty, crunchy bacon adds a delightful contrast that balances the sweet flavors beautifully.
Pairing warm cherry cinnamon rolls with a side of juicy strawberries or blueberries creates a delightful harmony of flavors. The juicy acidity from the fruit cuts through the richness, making every bite a celebration of taste.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea brings warmth and comfort that perfectly complements the rolls’ rich flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream melting over the warm rolls adds a decadent finish, turning breakfast into dessert!
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: This adds an extra layer of sweetness and a hint of earthy flavor to each fluffy, cherry-filled bite.
These pairings will transform your cherry cinnamon rolls into a truly special treat, making your meal memorable and satisfying!
Fluffy Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting frozen cherries?
When selecting frozen cherries, ensure they are whole and free from ice crystals, which can indicate freezer burn. Look for bright, vibrant color and avoid any that show signs of dark spots or freezer damage, as these could affect the flavor in your cherry cinnamon rolls.
How should I store leftover cherry cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week, but reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their fluffiness before enjoying!
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls? If yes, how?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked cherry cinnamon rolls, individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight, allowing them to rise again at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
What if my dough didn’t rise properly?
If your dough didn’t rise, check a few things: first, it might be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that you activated it in warm water (about 100°F/38°C). If the temperature was too hot, it could kill the yeast. Additionally, ensure the environment was warm enough for rising—perhaps try again in a slightly warmer spot. A warm oven (turned off) works wonders!
Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, you can! For a vegan option, replace the eggs with silken tofu and use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter. For gluten-free rolls, substitute bread flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly. Always ensure your baking starch and yeast are also gluten-free to maintain integrity.
Is there anything I should avoid if I’m serving these to kids or those with allergies?
Definitely! If you’re serving these rolls to kids or anyone with allergies, be aware of possible allergens like gluten (in flour) and dairy (in milk, butter, and cream cheese). Be sure to check ingredient labels specifically for milk mentioned in both the dough and frosting. For a nut-free option, skip adding nuts into the filling or as a topping, and always keep them stored separately if someone has nut allergies.
Fluffy Cherry Cinnamon Rolls That Will Warm Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine frozen cherries, granulated sugar, cold water, and corn starch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole milk, granulated sugar, eggs, and the foamy yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add the bread flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Fold in melted unsalted butter until fully combined.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Punch the dough down and roll it into a large rectangle, spread the cooled cherry filling evenly.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and whole milk until creamy. Frost the rolls while still warm.
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