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 the perfect treat for any occasion. With a rich yeasted dough, tart cherry pie filling, and buttery cream cheese frosting, these rolls are sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive gathering, this delightful recipe will steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherries and cinnamon creates an irresistible taste that is both sweet and tart.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own filling adds a personal touch and ensures freshness.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack any time of the day.
• Easy to Follow: Simple steps make this recipe accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• Impressive Presentation: Beautifully swirled rolls topped with creamy frosting will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Stand mixer or hand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; having multiple sizes helps in organizing the process.
• Baking dish: A good quality dish ensures even cooking and perfect presentation of your rolls.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing dough; provides consistent texture.

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Ingredients

To create these delightful Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling, you’ll need the following 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)
• 6 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 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

• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine frozen cherries, granulated sugar, cold water, and corn starch.
• Stir continuously until mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, mix warm water with active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Step 3: Make the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine whole milk, granulated sugar, eggs, flour, salt, and yeast mixture.
• Mix on low speed until combined then increase to medium speed for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter

• Gradually add unsalted butter into the dough while mixing. Continue kneading until dough is elastic and slightly sticky.

Step 5: Let It Rise

• Transfer dough to a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

• Once risen, punch down the dough on a floured surface. Roll into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

Step 7: Assemble Rolls

• Spread cooled cherry filling evenly over rolled-out dough. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.

Step 8: Cut Rolls

• Cut log into equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts. Place each roll in prepared baking dish.

Step 9: Second Rise

• Cover rolls again with cloth; let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 10: Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 11: Make Frosting

• While rolls bake, whip together room temperature butter and cream cheese in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix well. Adjust consistency with milk if needed.

Step 12: Frost Rolls

• Once baked rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread cream cheese frosting over them before serving.

Enjoy these delectable Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are delightful treats that can brighten up any occasion. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these cinnamon rolls are versatile and delicious. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A hot cup of coffee complements the sweet and tart flavors perfectly. Choose a light roast for a balanced taste.

Add Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top your rolls with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra layer of richness and creaminess.

Enjoy with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm cinnamon rolls alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch, enhancing the sweetness of the cherry filling.

Serve on a Brunch Platter

• Arrange these rolls on a beautiful platter with fruits and other pastries for an inviting brunch spread.

Garnish with Fresh Cherries

• Fresh cherries not only look stunning but also enhance the cherry flavor in each roll.

How to Perfect Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

To achieve the best results when making cherry cinnamon rolls, follow these simple tips. They will help you create perfectly fluffy and delicious rolls every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure that your yeast is active and all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal rising and flavor.

• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough well develops gluten, which gives your rolls their airy structure. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading.

• Let it rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving soft and fluffy buns.

• Roll evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure consistent baking and filling distribution.

• Cool before frosting: Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before adding frosting. This prevents melting and allows you to achieve a beautiful presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Adding side dishes can enhance your meal when serving cherry cinnamon rolls. Here’s a list of delightful options that pair well with them:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides balance and freshness alongside the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy texture that complements the soft rolls.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein, making your meal more filling while balancing sweetness.

4. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft sweetness of cherry cinnamon rolls.

5. Oven-Baked Bacon (Turkey alternative): For those who enjoy savory sides, turkey bacon offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.

6. Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed lightly can refresh your palate between bites of sweet treats.

7. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: A fun twist on toast that echoes the flavors in your rolls while providing additional crunch.

8. Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides both nutrition and visual appeal next to these sweet rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling can be fun, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough rolls. Mix until just combined and avoid excessive kneading.
• Ignoring Temperature: Yeast works best at warm temperatures. Ensure your liquids are not too hot or too cold to activate the yeast properly.
• Skipping the Proofing Time: Allow the dough to rise fully for fluffy rolls. Be patient; this step is crucial for texture.
• Not Using Enough Filling: Ensure you add enough cherry filling for flavor. Spread it generously, but avoid overfilling to prevent leaks.
• Underbaking the Rolls: Keep an eye on cooking time. They should be golden brown when done, so adjust baking times as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

• Freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

Reheating Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 20-30 seconds on medium power for a quick option.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly 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?

You can absolutely use fresh cherries! Just make sure they are pitted and chopped before using them in your filling.

What if I don’t have bread flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour provides more structure and chewiness.

How do I make the filling thicker?

If you’re looking for a thicker filling, you can add more cornstarch or let it simmer longer on the stove to reduce it further.

Can I customize the filling?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts or other berries for variation. Experimenting can lead to delightful new flavors!

Are these rolls suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! These cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling make a delicious breakfast treat that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

These cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a hint of tartness. Their fluffy texture and rich flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding nuts or trying different fruit fillings. Enjoy baking and indulging!