If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Raspberry Sweet Rolls with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft, tender rolls bursting with vibrant raspberries and cinched with a sweet, tangy coconut-infused cream cheese frosting create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering fruity brightness, luscious sweetness, and a hint of tropical coconut that simply dazzles the senses. Trust me, once you make these rolls, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your baking lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each contributing uniquely to the flavor, texture, and colorful appeal of the rolls. From the fluffy dough base to the luscious raspberry filling and dreamy frosting, every element works in harmony to create a magic that’s hard to resist.
- 1 cup milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast, providing softness and tenderness to the dough.
- 2/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with yeast fermentation for that fluffy rise.
- 1 & 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast: The magical ingredient that makes these rolls rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moistness to the dough.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help bind the dough.
- 4 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our dough to create soft, pillowy rolls.
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened): For spreading on the rolled-out dough to hold the filling.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Combined with cornstarch to sweeten and thicken the raspberry filling.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Helps prevent filling from becoming too runny.
- 15 ounces frozen raspberries (unthawed): The heart of the filling with vibrant, tart flavor and gorgeous color.
- 1/4 cup butter (softened): Used in the frosting for smooth creaminess.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds tang and richness to the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting perfectly without a gritty texture.
- 3-4 tablespoons milk: Used to adjust the frosting’s consistency to silky perfection.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavors in the frosting by balancing sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract: Gives the frosting a lovely tropical twist that makes these rolls unforgettable.
How to Make Raspberry Sweet Rolls with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Warm your milk until it feels like a comfortably warm bath, about 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir the sugar, yeast, and salt into the warm milk, then wait five minutes until it bubbles and foams—a wonderful sign that your yeast is alive and thriving.
Step 2: Combine dough ingredients
Add the softened butter and eggs to the bubbly yeast mixture, then beat with a paddle attachment or a sturdy spoon to mix everything well. This stage starts bringing together the rich, soft foundation for your rolls.
Step 3: Add flour and knead
Gradually incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, until it all comes together. Then, give your dough a hearty 10-minute knead, either by machine or by hand. You’re aiming for a soft, shiny dough that’s perfectly elastic and ready to rise.
Step 4: First rise
Grease a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover with a tea towel and nestle it inside your warm oven (turned off) for around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing it to double in size and become pillowy soft.
Step 5: Prepare the filling and fill the dough
Line a baking pan and roll your dough out into an 18×10 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the sugar and cornstarch mixture on top. Scatter the juicy frozen raspberries on the dough—if you like, pulse them slightly in a blender for a looser filling, but this step is optional.
Step 6: Roll and cut the dough
Roll up the dough tightly from a long side into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 12 equal pieces and arrange these sweet spirals in the prepared pan, placing the smaller end rolls in the center to prevent overbaking.
Step 7: Second rise
Cover the rolls with a tea towel and return them to your warm oven spot. Let them rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until puffy and ready for baking.
Step 8: Bake to golden perfection
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, covering the rolls with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, uncovering toward the end if you want a golden top. The rolls should feel set and not jiggle when shaken.
Step 9: Make the coconut cream cheese frosting
Beat together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then milk, salt, and coconut extract, beating until fluffy. Adjust milk to achieve your preferred frosting consistency—silky and spreadable.
Step 10: Frost and serve
Once the rolls cool slightly, you can invert them in the pan so the berry filling doesn’t settle at the bottom (optional). Generously spread or drizzle the luscious coconut cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, then dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Raspberry Sweet Rolls with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut over the frosting adds a lovely crunch and emphasizes that tropical coconut flavor. Fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also brighten up presentation with a touch of elegance and freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a cup of your favorite hot coffee or tea to complement their sweetness. For a balanced brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or fresh fruit salad, providing a delightful contrast to the rich rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual rolls with a small dollop of frosting and a raspberry on top for a charming party tray. Or place them in decorative paper liners for a festive brunch table. You can also drizzle extra coconut cream cheese frosting in artistic swirls on the plate to wow your guests visually.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover raspberry sweet rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness. If you want them to last a bit longer, transferring them to the fridge can extend freshness by a couple more days but may slightly firm the texture.
Freezing
These rolls freeze wonderfully either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Heat your rolls in a warm oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness, making this Raspberry Sweet Rolls with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe just as irresistible on day two or three.
FAQs
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh raspberries can be used, but since they carry more moisture, you might want to increase the cornstarch slightly to avoid a too-runny filling. Either way, the flavor will be vibrant and delicious.
Is there a substitute for coconut extract?
If you don’t have coconut extract, vanilla extract works well too. The rolls will still be delicious but less tropical. You can also try almond extract for a different flavor twist.
How do I know if my yeast is still good?
If the yeast mixture bubbles and foams within five minutes of adding warm milk and sugar, it’s alive and good to use. If there is no activity, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast to ensure your rolls rise properly.
Can I make the dough by hand instead of a mixer?
Yes! Kneading by hand works perfectly fine. Just be patient and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough feels soft and elastic. The satisfying workout is part of the fun!
Why do I have to invert the rolls before frosting?
Flipping the rolls helps prevent the raspberry filling from settling at the bottom and makes the rolls easier to frost evenly. It’s optional, but many find it improves the overall presentation and texture experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Raspberry Sweet Rolls with Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and your taste buds sing. These rolls are a perfect marriage of soft dough, tangy fruit, and luscious frosting with a hint of coconut that’s simply unforgettable. I hope you give them a try soon—they’re guaranteed to brighten your mornings and become a cherished favorite for all who try them.
