The delightful scent of warm bread rising in the oven is an experience that evokes warmth and comfort, especially during the holiday season. With the festive spirit in the air, there’s nothing quite like treating family and friends to a batch of Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls. These rolls are not just any sweet pastry; they combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright zestiness of oranges, creating a burst of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to the sweet aroma wafting through your home, inviting loved ones to gather around the table. Topped with a silky orange glaze that adds a delectable finish, these rolls elevate your holiday brunch from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a bustling gathering or savoring a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these soft, fluffy rolls will charm your taste buds and fill your heart with joy. Join me as we dive into this festive baking adventure that’s set to become a cherished tradition!
Why Are Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls a Must-Make?
Festive Aromas: The delightful scent of these sweet rolls baking will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting holiday atmosphere.
Burst of Flavor: Combining tart cranberries with zesty oranges offers a unique taste that delights the senses, unlike any ordinary sweet roll.
Easy Preparation: This recipe breaks down into simple steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Share the Joy: Ideal for holiday gatherings, these rolls are not just a treat but a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to everyone at the table.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them warm alongside fresh fruit or coffee, or even as a delightful dessert to round off your festive meal.
Indulge yourself and your loved ones with these delightful rolls, and for more holiday inspiration, check out our holiday brunch ideas!
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture in the dough; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; consider using brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Instant yeast – Acts as a leavening agent for rise; you can use active dry yeast but it needs to be bloomed in warm water first.
- Milk – Moistens and enriches the dough; almond milk works well for a dairy-free alternative.
- Butter – Contributes flavor and tenderness; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Egg – Enhances the dough’s structure and richness; replace with a flax egg for a vegetarian alternative.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
For the Filling
- Cranberries – Provide tartness and bursts of seasonal flavor; dried cranberries can be used but will alter moisture content.
- Orange juice – Infuses fresh citrus flavor into the filling; lemon juice can substitute for a different citrus twist.
- Orange zest – Enhances the brightness of the flavor profile; finely grated lemon zest can also be used for variety.
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, clove) – Infuse warmth and depth into the filling for that cozy holiday touch.
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and a smooth texture to the glaze; sift before using for best results.
- Vanilla extract – Adds a depth of flavor; consider using pure vanilla for a richer taste.
- Butter – Creates a silky texture in the glaze; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Milk – Thin the glaze to your desired consistency; dairy-free milk works perfectly here too.
Elevate your holiday baking with these delightful Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls—a treat that’s bound to impress!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls
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Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In another bowl, warm the milk and gently melt the butter; then whisk in the egg. Mix these wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and knead until smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
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Let it Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour for a fluffy texture.
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Make the Filling: In a saucepan, simmer the cranberries with orange juice, zest, sugar, and spices until the cranberries are tender. Allow this filling to cool before using to ensure a smooth spread on your dough.
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Roll it Out: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle a mix of sugar and the cooled cranberry filling evenly across the surface. Roll the dough tightly and cut it into equal rolls.
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Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover them gently and let rise until they are puffy, about 30-45 minutes, giving them that perfect airy texture.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls until they are golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes, filling your home with delightful aromas!
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Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, butter, milk, vanilla, and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle this delicious glaze generously over warm rolls just before serving, enhancing their sweetness.
Optional: Dust with extra orange zest for an added burst of citrus flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep, perfect for busy holiday mornings! You can prepare the dough and let it rise up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. For even easier prep, roll the assembled sweet rolls, place them in a greased baking dish, and cover them before refrigerating overnight. The next morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise again for about 30 minutes before baking. This method ensures they are just as fluffy and delicious, saving you precious time while providing the delightful taste of fresh-baked rolls that everyone will love.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls
- Chill the Filling: Ensure that the cranberry filling is chilled before spreading; this helps maintain the butter’s consistency and keeps your rolls neat.
- Layer Sparingly: When adding the cranberry filling, start with a small amount. You can always add more to avoid overflow while rolling.
- Embrace Imperfection: Don’t fret if the rolls look a bit messy; they’ll taste fantastic, and a slight imperfection adds character.
- Watch the Rise: Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free area for the best texture in your Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and quality vanilla enhance the flavors significantly, making your rolls truly memorable.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls?
As the scent of warm cranberry orange rolls dances through your home, it’s the perfect opportunity to complete your festive meal.
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Fresh Fruit Salad:
A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls, creating a well-rounded meal. -
Spiced Hot Apple Cider:
Warming spiced cider complements the cozy flavors of the rolls, making each bite feel even more festive and inviting. -
Creamy Yogurt Parfait:
Layering creamy yogurt with granola and berries brings a delightful balance of tartness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the sweet rolls. -
Savory Quiche:
A slice of quiche can introduce a savory element to your brunch table, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cranberry orange rolls. This hearty dish will make your meal feel complete. -
Cream Cheese Frosting:
For those with a sweet tooth, a dollop of cream cheese frosting atop the warm rolls can elevate them from delicious to divine. -
Sparkling Water with Citrus:
Serve sparkling water infused with slices of citrus fruit for a refreshing drink that complements the zesty flavors in your sweet rolls.
Each of these pairings enhances the experience of enjoying your Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls, turning your holiday brunch into a memorable celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; this preserves their delightful softness.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure they are wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked rolls for up to 3 months. For baked rolls, cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. For unbaked, assemble the rolls, cover, and freeze before their second rise.
Reheating: Reheat rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave them for about 20 seconds for a quick warm-up, bringing back that fresh-baked taste.
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Variations
Feel free to take these already delightful rolls on an exciting flavor journey of your own!
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Berry Bliss: Substitute cranberries with fresh or frozen cherries or blueberries for a juicy twist that still bursts with flavor and color.
Sometimes the best surprises come from switching up the fruit, letting your taste buds explore a new sweet adventure! -
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a satisfying crunch that complements the soft roll.
These nuts bring an additional layer of texture and warmth, perfect for cozy holiday gatherings. -
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the filling blend for a warming, aromatic fusion that’s perfect for the season.
These spices will elevate the flavor profile, creating a nostalgic scent that will have everyone asking for your secret. -
Citrus Swap: Try lemon or lime juice and zest instead of orange for a brighter, tangy glaze that will wake up your taste buds.
This swap offers a refreshing change, making these rolls an unforgettable treat at any brunch table. -
Chocolate Drizzle: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a sweet, indulgent twist.
Imagine the delight of chocolate mingling with the tartness of cranberries—a lovely little surprise in every bite! -
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk and vegan butter to make your rolls entirely dairy-free without compromising on taste and texture.
With these simple swaps, everyone can enjoy these delicious treats, no matter their dietary preferences. -
Maple Glaze: Swap the orange glaze for a warm maple glaze for a cozy, fall-like touch that pairs beautifully with the sweet rolls.
The rich maple flavor not only tantalizes the palate but also adds a fragrant aroma that will fill your kitchen with warmth. -
Cinnamon Swirl: Layer in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before rolling for an extra swirl of flavor that brings a classic touch to your festive rolls.
Filled with that comforting warmth, these rolls will remind you of the crisp holiday mornings spent with loved ones.
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries are ideal for these rolls due to their tartness, which balances beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can use dried cranberries, but keep in mind they will alter the moisture content and texture of the rolls.
How should I store leftover Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls?
To keep your rolls delightful and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, wrapped well, for up to a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze the Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze these rolls! I often make batches and freeze them for busy days. For baked rolls, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag where they can last for up to 3 months. For unbaked rolls, assemble them, cover tightly, and freeze before the second rise. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, then let them rise before baking.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, check the freshness of your yeast; it may be expired. Ensure you’re letting the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment—ideal conditions are around 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). If it still seems unresponsive, allow it to sit longer or try activating your yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar before mixing into your dough.
Can I make these rolls dairy-free?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a dairy-free diet, replace regular milk with almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter. The rolls will still be deliciously fluffy and rich while accommodating your dietary needs.
Is this recipe pet-friendly?
No, it’s important to note that while these rolls are fantastic for humans, they contain ingredients like sugar and possibly even chocolate (if chosen as alternatives) that are not safe for pets. Always keep your baked goods out of reach from your furry friends!
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls: The Perfect Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
- In another bowl, warm the milk and gently melt the butter; then whisk in the egg.
- Mix these wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and knead until smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour for a fluffy texture.
- In a saucepan, simmer the cranberries with orange juice, zest, sugar, and spices until the cranberries are tender.
- Allow this filling to cool before using to ensure a smooth spread on your dough.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle a mix of sugar and the cooled cranberry filling evenly across the surface.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut it into equal rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover them gently and let rise until they are puffy, about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls until they are golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, butter, milk, vanilla, and orange juice until smooth.
- Drizzle this delicious glaze generously over warm rolls just before serving.