Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Nothing beats a juicy slice of cherry pie, except maybe a fluffy cherry cinnamon roll. These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors, making them perfect for brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon treat. The rich yeasted dough is filled with luscious homemade cherry filling and topped with creamy frosting, ensuring that every bite is a burst of flavor. Whether you’re surprising guests or indulging yourself, these rolls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherries and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be rolling in no time!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are great for brunch, special occasions, or just as a sweet treat during the week.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own filling and frosting from scratch.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm for breakfast or at room temperature for an afternoon snack.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling effectively, gathering the right tools is crucial. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps to roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface to bake your rolls evenly.

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Ingredients

For the Cherry Filling

• 3 1/2 cups frozen cherries (454g)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
• 1/4 cup cold water (60g)
• 2 tbs corn starch (20g)

For the 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)

For the Frosting

• 6 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature
• 4 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature (57g)
• 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature (85g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (260g)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-3 tbs whole milk (20-60g)

How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

Start by combining the frozen cherries and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture starts to bubble. In a separate bowl, mix cold water and corn starch until smooth. Add this mixture to the saucepan once the cherries are bubbling. Stir well until it thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast; set aside until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole milk, granulated sugar, eggs, salt, and yeast mixture. Gradually add in bread flour until combined. Knead in unsalted butter until dough is smooth.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough on a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Spread cooled cherry filling over rolled-out dough. Starting from one edge, carefully roll up tightly into a log shape. Cut into individual rolls and place on prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

Cover rolls again with cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

While rolls bake, beat together softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and desired milk until smooth.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle with cream cheese frosting before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling!

How to Serve Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Cherry cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to impress.

With Coffee

• Pair your cherry cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of coffee for a classic breakfast combination. The rich flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the rolls.

As Dessert

• Serve warm cherry cinnamon rolls as dessert after dinner. The gooey filling and creamy frosting make for a satisfying end to any meal.

Topped with Ice Cream

• For an indulgent twist, top your warm roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm roll and cold ice cream is heavenly.

Drizzled with Extra Frosting

• If you love frosting, drizzle some extra cream cheese frosting on top before serving. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess.

How to Perfect Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Making cherry cinnamon rolls can be easy, but here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh yeast and high-quality flour for the best texture and flavor in your rolls.
• Knead Dough Properly: Kneading develops gluten, which helps create a light and fluffy texture. Aim for about 10 minutes of kneading.
• Let Dough Rise Completely: Allow the dough to double in size during the first rise. This step is crucial for fluffy rolls.
• Keep Filling Even: Spread the cherry filling evenly over the dough before rolling it up. This ensures each bite is filled with delicious flavor.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the rolls while they bake. They should be golden brown but not overly dark.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Cherry cinnamon rolls can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad provides a light and healthy contrast to the rich rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a tasty side that adds crunch and tanginess.

3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs balance the sweetness of the rolls while adding protein to your meal.

4. Smoothie Bowl
   A vibrant smoothie bowl offers nutrients and flavors that work well alongside sweet pastries.

5. Oatmeal
   A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit pairs nicely, providing heartiness without overpowering.

6. Chia Pudding
   Creamy chia pudding is nutritious and offers a different texture that complements your cherry cinnamon rolls beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cherry cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Frozen Cherries Directly: Always thaw and drain frozen cherries before use. This prevents excess moisture from making your filling runny.

• Not Activating Yeast Properly: Ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it in warm water. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it’s likely not viable, and you’ll need to start over.

• Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; let your dough double in size for best results.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in tough cinnamon rolls instead of soft and fluffy ones.

• Ignoring Temperature for Ingredients: Make sure your milk and butter are at the right temperatures as specified in the recipe. Too hot or too cold can affect yeast activation and dough consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat rolls for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds per roll on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet with a bit of water, cover, and steam on low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling:

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used! Just pit, chop, and prepare them similarly to the frozen variety.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor or dietary preference.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel airy. You can perform the poke test: gently poke the dough, and if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Can I make these cherry cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the rolls up to the baking stage, then refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning!

Final Thoughts

These cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize with different fruits or toppings! Try this recipe today – it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert!