There’s something irresistibly warm and inviting about freshly baked rolls, and when they boast the deliciously tart bite of cranberry combined with the zesty aroma of orange, you know you’re in for a treat. These Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls are a family favorite, perfect for cozy settings and winter evenings. Picture biting into a soft, fluffy roll with a creamy filling that dances on your taste buds—pure bliss! Growing up, my favorite family gatherings always featured a unique sweet treat, and these rolls have quickly taken that special place. If you’re a fan of classic cinnamon rolls, then you’re just a few ingredients away from discovering your new favorite indulgence. Let’s jump right in, shall we?
What are Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls?
So, what exactly are these delightful rolls? Imagine the softest, fluffiest dough enveloping a cream cheese mixture swirling with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. What a mouthful! I mean, it’s like having your dessert and breakfast all at once. Who needs a fancy name when you can have such a delicious bite? This recipe reminds me that truly, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and really, who can resist the allure of these sweet rolls? Trust me; once you make them, you’ll find every reason to bake these heavenly rolls. Friends are going to want to pop by for a taste!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls
First off, let’s talk about the soft, pillowy texture of these rolls. Each bite combines a perfect balance of sweetness with tartness, thanks to the delightful cranberry and fresh orange zest. Not only are these rolls incredibly satisfying to eat, but they’re also an economical option for family gatherings. When you prepare your meals at home, you save money while delighting your loved ones with something that tastes even better than store-bought options!
Imagine them sitting proudly on your table, perhaps alongside a warm dish of cinnamon apple bread pudding? But I digress. Grab your apron, gather your family, and let’s embark on this sweet journey together!
How to Make Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls
Quick Overview
One of the best things about Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls is how uncomplicated they are to make. With the soft, stretchy texture of the dough and the luscious creamy filling, you’ll be delighting your taste buds in no time. The preparation time takes about 15 minutes, and then you let them rise to fluffy perfection!
Ingredients for Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls
- For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 ¼ tsp)
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably homemade or store-bought without gelatin)
- 1 tbsp fresh orange zest
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk (more as needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add melted butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, orange zest, and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended.
- Roll it Out:
- After the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick) on a floured surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut it into even pieces (about 1-2 inches thick) and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Glaze:
- While they’re baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls after baking.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls
- Dough Consistency: Be aware of the moisture content in your dough; add more flour gradually if it’s too sticky.
- Filling Options: Feel free to use different fruit preserves or jams if cranberries aren’t available. Raspberry or cherry also work wonderfully while ensuring they remain halal-friendly!
- Timing: Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free environment for optimal fluffiness—perhaps inside an oven that’s turned off.
- Check for Doneness: Test the rolls with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean if they are adequately baked.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a zip-lock bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain that melt-in-your-mouth texture. A light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze makes them extra special again!
With these steps, you’re ready to enjoy the heartwarming delight of Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these simple yet extraordinary rolls. They may just become your new go-to treat for family gatherings! Happy baking!
Cranberry Citrus Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add melted butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry sauce, orange zest, and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended.
- After the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick) on a floured surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut it into even pieces (about 1-2 inches thick) and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While they’re baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls after baking.
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