Delicious Cranberry Orange Rolls for Special Mornings

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Cranberry Orange Rolls are a deliciously sweet and tangy treat that truly brighten up any breakfast or brunch table. These homemade rolls combine a soft, tender dough with a vibrant cranberry orange jam filling and a sweet orange glaze, making them perfect for holiday mornings or special occasions. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as you bake these rolls, filling your home with warmth and cheer. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible treats!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Rolls

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Cranberry Orange Rolls. First, they’re easy to make, which is perfect for any home cook. Second, the balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes them a unique addition to your brunch spread. These rolls are also great for sharing during the holidays, bringing everyone together. Furthermore, they can be made from scratch, offering a warm, homemade touch. Lastly, you can enjoy them warm with a drizzle of orange glaze, enhancing their flavor. With these Cranberry Orange Buns, you’ll impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Rolls

Gather these items:

3/4 cup whole milk (heated to 95°F/35°C) (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

How to Make Cranberry Orange Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Whisk together and let sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: In a separate small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt; set aside.
Step 3: Add the eggs to the milk and yeast mixture and whisk until fully combined.
Step 4: Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add the flour mixture. Then increase to medium speed and mix until the dough starts coming together, about 1 minute.
Step 5: With the mixer on medium, add softened butter pieces one at a time, followed by the orange zest. Continue mixing for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the bowl sides. If still sticky, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour until it cleans the sides.
Step 6: On a floured surface, knead the dough into a smooth ball. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 7: While the dough rises, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer gently for about 15 minutes until most cranberries burst. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 8: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into an 18×18 inch square. Spread the cooled cranberry jam evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Step 9: Starting with the edge nearest you, carefully roll the dough into a tight cylinder. Pinch the seam to seal, then cut into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
Step 10: Arrange the rolls in a lightly greased 13×9-inch baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Alternatively, refrigerate overnight.
Step 11: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Remove plastic wrap and bake rolls for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown on top. Remove the pan and transfer rolls to a wire rack.
Step 12: Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Drizzle or spread the glaze over warm rolls before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Rolls

Keep these in mind:

These rolls are best served warm.
You can refrigerate the rolls after shaping them for a slower rise overnight.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze to your preference.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a cream cheese frosting to your Cranberry Orange Pastries.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Rolls

These delightful rolls can be served warm for breakfast or brunch, making them a perfect treat. You can also pair them with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve them as part of a holiday spread along with other Citrus Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Rolls

To store your Cranberry Orange Rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes until warm. Meal prep made easy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Rolls

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Rolls?

The key to perfect Cranberry Orange Rolls is ensuring your dough rises properly. Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best results.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight for a convenient morning treat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Rolls?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure accurate measurements and allow the dough to rise in a warm environment. Avoid overmixing the dough to keep it soft and fluffy.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Rolls You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these rolls! You can add nuts or chocolate chips for a twist. Consider making Orange Cranberry Sweet Rolls by adding cinnamon and sugar to the filling. Another delicious option is to prepare Cranberry and orange flavored pastries by shaping them into different forms or using puff pastry.