Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of sweet cranberries and zesty orange, especially when they’re enveloped in soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls. These Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that promises warmth and comfort. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened (for brushing)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1-2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt until well combined.
- Add the frothy yeast mixture and the zest of one orange to the bowl, stirring until everything is blended together.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle it evenly with ground cinnamon, chopped cranberries, and a touch more sugar.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly to form a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan. Cover them again and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the warm glaze generously over the top and serve immediately.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of orange zest to the glaze. You can also substitute fresh cranberries if you have them on hand — just make sure to adjust the sugar to balance their tartness. These rolls are delightful warm, but they also hold up well in an airtight container for a couple of days.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is essential to develop the gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture. Be sure not to skip the rising steps—this is where the dough gains its airy quality, contributing to that light, pillowy bite. If you’re looking for a shortcut, you can prepare the dough the night before, allowing it to rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and store them in the fridge covered. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls? Yes! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Conclusion
These Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful way to start your day or to impress your guests at brunch. Their irresistibly soft texture combined with the bright flavors of orange and tart cranberries create a treat that’s simply unforgettable. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a little homemade magic!