Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls: The Ultimate Sweet Roll Recipe

Name: Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Ingredients: 0.75 cup whole milk (heated to 95°F (180ml)); 0.5 cup granulated sugar ((100g)); 2.25 tsp instant dry yeast; 4.25 cups all-purpose flour ((530g)); 0.5 cup cornstarch ((120g)); 0.75 tsp salt; 3 large eggs (room temperature); 0.75 cup unsalted butter (cut into 12 pieces and softened (180g)); 2 tsp orange zest; 4 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen (400g)); 1 cup granulated sugar ((200g)); 0.25 cup fresh orange juice ((60ml)); 2 tsp orange zest; 1 cup powdered sugar ((120g)); 3 tbsp orange juice; 2 tsp orange zest

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Welcome to the delightful world of cranberry orange sweet rolls! These soft, fluffy rolls are the perfect combination of sweet and tart, making them an ideal breakfast treat or dessert. The bright flavor of fresh cranberries paired with zesty orange creates a mouthwatering experience that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them on a cozy Sunday morning, these sweet rolls are sure to impress!

A Personal Story Behind My Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Journey

My love for cranberry orange sweet rolls began during a family holiday tradition. Every year, my grandmother would bake a batch of these scrumptious rolls, filling the house with their irresistible aroma. I remember the excitement of waking up to the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven, and the joy of sitting around the table, sharing stories and laughter over warm rolls. This recipe not only brings back cherished memories but also allows me to create new ones with my own family.

What Makes This Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because of its unique blend of flavors and textures. The sweet rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy, thanks to a rich dough made with butter and eggs. The homemade cranberry jam adds a burst of tartness, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the dough. Additionally, the bright notes of orange zest elevate the flavor profile, making these rolls a delightful treat for any occasion. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, allowing for a stress-free baking experience!

The Full Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

Ingredients

3/4 cup whole milk, heated to 95°F (180ml)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
2 1/4 tsp instant dry yeast
4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (530g)
1/2 cup cornstarch (120g)
3/4 tsp salt
3 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into 12 pieces and softened (180g)
2 tsp orange zest
4 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen (400g)
1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
1/4 cup fresh orange juice (60ml)
2 tsp orange zest
1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
3 tbsp orange juice
2 tsp orange zest

Instructions

In the bowl of a stand mixer with the dough hook, mix warm milk, 1/2 cup sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

In a small bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside.
Add eggs to the milk mixture and whisk until combined.

With the mixer on low, add the flour mixture. Increase speed to medium and mix until dough forms, about 1 minute. Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to fully incorporate the ingredients.
Add butter one piece at a time while mixing on medium. Add orange zest.
Mix for 10 minutes until dough is smooth. If wet, add a bit more flour until dough is manageable.

Knead dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1.5-2 hours. Tip: A warm, draft-free area is best for rising.
Meanwhile, make the cranberry jam: In a saucepan, boil cranberries, 1 cup sugar, orange juice, and zest. Simmer for 15 minutes until cranberries burst. Let cool.
Roll out dough into an 18×18 inch square. Spread cooled cranberry jam, leaving a 1-inch border. Tip: Use a spatula to evenly spread the jam.

Roll dough into a cylinder, cut into 12 pieces, and place in a greased 13×9-inch baking pan. Let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
Bake rolls for 35-40 minutes until golden. Transfer to a wire rack.
Make the glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, 3 tbsp orange juice, and zest until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

These cranberry orange sweet rolls are delicious on their own, but you can enhance their enjoyment with a few serving suggestions. Consider serving them with a side of cream cheese or butter for spreading. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try adding nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with different fruit jams, such as raspberry or blueberry, in place of the cranberry!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Can I make these sweet rolls ahead of time?
No problem! You can refrigerate the rolls overnight after shaping them, then bake them fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast treat.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but they won’t burst like fresh ones. Consider soaking them in warm water for a bit before using to plump them up.

How should I store leftover sweet rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Happy baking!

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 12