Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you are searching for a delightful twist on a classic bakery favorite, this Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cinnamon rolls are brilliantly soft and fluffy, swirled with a luscious, tangy raspberry filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. Paired with a dreamy cream cheese glaze, this recipe combines sweet, tart, and warm spices into one unforgettable breakfast or brunch treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe lies in its use of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together harmoniously. Each ingredient is essential, from the flour that gives the rolls their soft structure, to the fresh raspberries that add a vibrant pop of color and natural sweetness.

• All-purpose flour (3 ½ cups plus extra): Provides the perfect base with structure and tenderness for the dough.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup plus additional): Sweetens the dough lightly and caramelizes when baked.
• Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp): The magic ingredient that makes your rolls rise and become airy.
• Warm milk (¾ cup at about 110°F): Activates the yeast while keeping the dough soft.
• Unsalted butter (¼ cup melted): Adds richness and moistness throughout the dough.
• Large egg (1): Binds ingredients and gives the dough a tender crumb.
• Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Fresh or frozen raspberries (1 ½ cups): The star fruit component that infuses the rolls with juicy bursts of tartness.
• Granulated sugar (⅓ cup): Sweeter notes to complement the raspberries in the filling.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp): Thickens the raspberry filling for a perfect spreadable consistency.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warm, cozy spice to the fruit filling.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the filling with a little zing.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Creates a luscious glaze with tangy undertones.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and smooths the glaze.
• Milk or cream (1–2 tbsp): Adjusts glaze thickness to your liking.
• Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Adds depth and aromatic warmth to the glaze.

How to Make Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by waking up the yeast in warm milk combined with a tablespoon of sugar to feed the yeast. Let this sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes wonderfully foamy, signaling that the yeast is alive and ready to make your rolls fluffy and soft.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, mix your flour, remaining sugar, a pinch of salt, melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Knead the dough — either by hand or using a mixer — for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten, essential for that fluffy texture. Cover it with a towel and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about one hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

While your dough rests, it’s time to make the irresistible raspberry filling. In a saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens beautifully. Then, let it cool completely so it can spread evenly without making the dough soggy.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. This size gives you just the right amount of dough to hold a generous filling swirl and create perfect rolls.

Step 5: Fill the Dough

Spread the cooled raspberry filling evenly across the rolled-out dough, ensuring every bite will carry that sweet and tangy flavor. Be sure to leave a small border so juices don’t leak out during baking.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. This rolling technique creates those beautiful spirals inside every slice. Slice this log evenly into 12 pieces, each one ready to blossom in the oven. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spaced slightly apart.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the rolls rise again for another 30 minutes to become light and fluffy. For a more flexible schedule, refrigerate overnight and bake fresh the next morning — the flavor will only deepen.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden color and are baked through. Your kitchen will fill with the most inviting aroma, hinting at the delicious bites to come.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the rolls bake, whip together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This glaze adds a silky, tangy finish that takes these rolls from wonderful to unforgettable.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle or spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Serve warm to enjoy the perfect combination of ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls with a fresh raspberry zing.

How to Serve Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the look and flavor, consider topping your Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with a few fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds or a touch of lemon zest can also add a beautiful contrast and extra texture.

Side Dishes

This Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe pairs wonderfully with a light fruit salad or a fresh yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness of the rolls. For a brunch spread, you can also serve alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a savory touch that complements the rolls’ richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Switch up the presentation by serving individual rolls on decorative plates with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint on the side. Alternatively, create a morning party display by arranging the rolls on a tiered cake stand to make the vibrant raspberry filling pop visually and entice your guests immediately.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The rolls stay deliciously soft, and you can easily reheat them without losing their fresh-baked charm.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls either before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness, gently warm the rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Add a quick fresh drizzle of glaze if desired, and enjoy that warm, gooey goodness all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries for the filling?

Absolutely. Frozen raspberries work very well and provide the same vibrant flavor once cooked and thickened. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing with the other filling ingredients to avoid soggy dough.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

You can definitely make substitutions: use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and swap the egg with a flax egg or another egg replacer. The yeast and dough process remains the same, so you won’t lose any of that fluffy texture.

Can I prepare the rolls the night before?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated after the first rise or after rolling and slicing. Let it rise covered in the fridge overnight, then bake fresh in the morning for the best flavor and freshness.

What’s the best way to ensure the rolls rise well?

Make sure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly, and create a cozy, draft-free environment for rising. Even your oven with a bowl of warm water or a sunny windowsill works great to help the dough puff up nicely.

Can I add other fruits instead of raspberries?

Definitely! This Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is flexible. You can substitute strawberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry blend for a different but equally delicious spin on the filling. Adjust sugar amounts slightly depending on the fruit’s sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a wonderful way to bring something fresh, fruity, and fun to your breakfast table. The balance of soft, spiced dough with a bright raspberry filling and creamy glaze is sheer magic. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, these rolls are sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked raspberry cinnamon rolls. You won’t regret it!

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