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Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Hello, fellow food lovers!

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the warm aroma of cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. Today, let’s take a delightful journey together and bake Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling. This recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beautiful way to elevate the humble cinnamon roll into a luscious, cherry-filled delight that everyone will adore.

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Introduction

Cinnamon rolls have long been a cherished treat across cultures, often enjoyed as breakfast or a sweet snack. Their origins can be traced back to Northern Europe, particularly Sweden, where they are known as “kanelbullar.” The combination of sweet dough, warm spices, and creamy frosting creates a cozy experience that warms the heart.

Adding cherries to the mix transforms the classic cinnamon roll into something truly special. Growing up, I remember my grandmother baking cherry cinnamon rolls during summer, using fruit from our garden. Every bite reminded me of home and the cheerful moments spent in the kitchen.

Let’s explore how to make these delightful treats that blend nostalgia with sweet, fruity goodness!

Ingredients

To prepare these comforting Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling, you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or use vegan butter for a dairy-free version)
• 2 large eggs (or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for an egg-free option)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped (use any other berry if you prefer)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional):

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened (or a vegan cream cheese alternative)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)

Helpful Tip:

Feel free to swap out cherries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries, keeping in mind that this will change the flavor profile of your rolls.

How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs (or applesauce). Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little extra flour until it’s manageable.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

4. Place the 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 doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

5. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the chopped cherries, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a flour-dusted surface into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
7. Spread the softened butter on the dough, followed by the cherry filling evenly over the surface.
8. Roll the dough tightly from the long side to create a log. Cut the log into 12 slices.

Step 5: Baking the Rolls

9. Place the slices in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

11. While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

12. Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool slightly, then drizzle with cream cheese frosting. Enjoy your delicious cherry cinnamon rolls warm or at room temperature!

Helpful Tips

To enhance the flavor of your cherry cinnamon rolls, consider the following tips:

• Experiment with Spices: Add nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon filling for extra warmth.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Cherries: If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
• Dough Make-Ahead: You can make the dough in advance. After kneading, place it in the fridge overnight, then let it come to room temperature before continuing.

Cooking Tips

To ensure your cherry cinnamon rolls turn out perfect:

• Use an instant-read thermometer to check that your milk is warm but not hot (ideally 110°F). This is crucial for yeast activation.
• Use a serrated knife to cut your dough log more easily.
• If you have a stand mixer, consider using it with a dough hook for kneading, making the process easier and less hands-on.

Serving Suggestions

These cherry cinnamon rolls are best served fresh from the oven, but they also pair nicely with:

• A side of fresh fruit for added freshness.
• A hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the flavors.
• For a special occasion, top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.

Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Nutritional Information

Each serving has approximately:

Calories: 350
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 300mg
Potassium: 150mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Vitamin A: 8% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 6% DV

These rolls are a lovely source of carbohydrates and energy. The cherries add a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, making your treat a bit healthier!

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat: You can easily reheat them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Get creative with leftovers by using them as a topping for yogurt or cutting them up and mixing them into a breakfast parfait!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different fruit for the filling?

Yes! You can substitute the cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or even apples.

What can I use in place of eggs?

For an egg-free version, you can use applesauce, mashed bananas, or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your milk was warm, not hot. Sometimes, letting the dough sit in a slightly warmer area can also help.

Related Recipes

• For more recipes check my

  Tarte aux Pépites de Chocolat et M&M’s!

  Raspberry Lemon Cake: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling inspires you to create a delicious treat that brings back fond memories and creates new ones. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite fruit or add a personal touch to the recipe.

Please try it out and share your feedback or variations! I’d love to hear about your experiences in the kitchen. Happy baking!