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If you’re looking for a show-stopping sweet treat that feels like a warm hug from your oven, you absolutely must try this Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Packed with luscious cherry filling that’s both tangy and sweet, paired perfectly with soft, pillowy cinnamon-spiced dough and a rich, creamy frosting, these rolls are the ultimate comfort dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a special brunch or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe brings joy to your kitchen and delight to your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is in its simple, thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the tart, juicy cherries that bring vibrant color and flavor, to the warm spices and creamy frosting that complete the whole experience.
- Frozen cherries (3 1/2 cups): These provide the star fruit flavor, bursting with freshness once cooked down into a luscious filling.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup + 1/3 cup): Key for sweetness in both the filling and dough, balancing tartness beautifully.
- Cold water (1/4 cup): Helps dissolve cornstarch for thickening the cherry filling smoothly.
- Cornstarch (2 tbsp): Essential for thickening the cherry filling to a perfect spreadable consistency.
- Warm water (1/4 cup): Activates the yeast to ensure your dough rises nicely and achieves that fluffy texture.
- Active dry yeast (1 tsp): The secret ingredient that gives your rolls their light, airy lift.
- Whole milk (3/4 cup): Adds richness and moisture to the dough, making it soft and tender.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the dough and enrich it for a tender crumb.
- Bread flour (4 1/2 cups): Provides the structure and chew you’ll adore in every bite.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Unsalted butter (6 tbsp + 4 tbsp): The first portion incorporated into the dough for richness, the second melted for flavor and moisture in the filling and frosting.
- Cream cheese (3 oz): The base of the frosting, delivering that tangy creaminess that’s signature to cinnamon rolls.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and smooths the frosting to a luscious finish.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds warmth and depth to the frosting’s flavor profile.
- Whole milk (1-3 tbsp): Allows you to adjust the frosting’s consistency perfectly.
How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cherry Filling
Start by combining the cherries with granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the fruit softens and juices escape, creating a naturally vibrant sauce. Then, mix cold water with cornstarch to form a slurry—this helps thicken the filling. Stir it into the cherry mixture and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat, let it cool completely, and then refrigerate. This cooling step is crucial because spreading warm filling on the dough can interfere with the rising process.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
While the cherry filling chills, activate your yeast by dissolving it in warm water. Wait about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This lively froth confirms your yeast is ready to work its magic and give your dough that fluffy texture that cinnamon rolls are famous for.
Step 3: Make the Dough
Pour the warm milk, sugar, eggs, and yeast mixture into a large mixing bowl, stirring to combine. Gradually sift in bread flour and salt until a shaggy dough starts to form. Next, work in the softened butter either by hand or with a stand mixer on low speed until well incorporated. Then knead the dough—either by hand or with a dough hook on medium speed—until it pulls cleanly from the bowl’s sides and feels elastic and smooth, about 10 minutes. This kneading develops the gluten, which creates the soft, chewy bite you crave in every roll.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the chilled cherry filling evenly on top, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Then, starting at one long side, roll the dough tightly to form a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them snugly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let the rolls rise for 30 to 45 minutes so they puff up beautifully. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until they’re golden and irresistible.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy and smooth. Add milk a little at a time to reach a creamy but spreadable consistency that will melt delightfully over the warm rolls.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, let your rolls cool for about 10 minutes before generously spreading them with the cream cheese frosting. The residual warmth helps the frosting gently melt, making every bite perfectly indulgent.
How to Serve Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, consider fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds or a few fresh cherries on top. These add a lovely texture contrast and an extra splash of color that makes these sweet rolls look as stunning as they taste.
Side Dishes
Though these rolls are a treat on their own, serving them alongside a plate of crispy bacon or breakfast sausage offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet. Fresh fruit salad or a simple green smoothie can also lighten the meal, balancing the richness of the cinnamon rolls beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these rolls as individual portions in pretty ramekins or mini loaf pans for an adorable presentation. Another fun idea is to drizzle a little extra cherry sauce over each frosted roll just before serving, doubling down on the vibrant cherry flavor and making each bite a sensational experience for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe leftovers are a dream to keep on hand. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and softness. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option, but make sure to bring them to room temperature or warm gently before eating to restore their tender texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping and cutting. Just place them in a baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight and then let rise at room temperature before baking. Alternatively, freeze baked rolls in a sealed container and thaw overnight or gently warm before enjoying.
Reheating
To reheat your rolls, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Microwave reheating is quicker but can sometimes dry them out—try adding a damp paper towel over the rolls during heating to keep them moist. Reapply frosting or heat it slightly before spreading for that just-baked allure.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries work wonderfully when in season. Just pit and chop them before cooking the filling. Frozen cherries tend to be more reliable year-round, but fresh cherries provide an extra juicy, vibrant flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely! While this recipe involves yeast and a few steps, the instructions are straightforward. Take your time activating the yeast and kneading the dough, and you’ll be rewarded with bakery-quality rolls that feel like a grand baking accomplishment.
Can I substitute the whole milk with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use plant-based milks like almond or oat milk. Just make sure the milk is warm when adding to activate the yeast properly. Keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long do I need to let the rolls rise?
The first rise occurs after assembling the rolls – typically 30 to 45 minutes until they almost double in size. This resting time ensures the rolls are light, fluffy, and tender after baking.
Can I prepare the filling and dough the night before?
Yes! You can make the cherry filling ahead and refrigerate it. The dough can also be prepared the night before and refrigerated to rise slowly overnight – just let it come to room temperature and finish rising before shaping and baking.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe enough for anyone craving a sweet, fruity twist on a classic favorite. The balance of tart cherries, warm cinnamon dough, and rich frosting will quickly make this recipe a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So preheat your oven and prepare to fill your home with irresistible aromas that bring smiles all around!
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Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Cherry Cinnamon Rolls featuring a homemade cherry filling, soft bread dough, and a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls combine sweet cherries with warm cinnamon flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cherry Filling
- 3 1/2 cups frozen cherries (454g)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
- 1/4 cup cold water (60g)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (20g)
Dough
- 1/4 cup warm water (60g)
- 1 tsp active dry yeast (6g)
- 3/4 cup whole milk (180g)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
- 2 large eggs
- 4 1/2 cups bread flour (540g)
- 1/2 tsp salt (3g)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
Frosting
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (57g)
- 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature (85g)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (260g)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–3 tbsp whole milk (20-60g)
Instructions
- Make the Cherry Filling: In a saucepan, combine frozen cherries and granulated sugar. In a small bowl, mix cold water with cornstarch until dissolved. Stir this cornstarch mixture into the cherry mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool, then transfer to a bowl and refrigerate while making the dough.
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, whole milk, granulated sugar, and eggs. Add sifted bread flour and salt gradually, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Work in room-temperature butter by hand or with a stand mixer on low speed until combined, about 3 minutes. Knead the dough on medium speed with a dough hook or by hand for about 10 minutes, or until the dough pulls cleanly from the sides of the bowl and is smooth and elastic.
- Assemble the Rolls: Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cooled cherry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other to form a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces to form individual rolls.
- Rise the Rolls: Arrange the rolls evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30-45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a bowl, beat together room-temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and fluffy. Add milk a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cherry cinnamon rolls and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use frozen cherries but thaw them slightly before making the filling for easier cooking.
- Make sure yeast is fresh and proofed properly to ensure good rise.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to the dough or sprinkle over the cherry filling.
- The cream cheese frosting can be made ahead and refrigerated. If refrigerated, allow it to soften before spreading.
- Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat slightly before serving.
