Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Nothing beats a juicy slice of cherry pie, except maybe a fluffy cherry cinnamon roll. Cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are not just a delightful treat; they’re perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. With a rich yeasted dough and a sweet, tart cherry filling topped with creamy frosting, these rolls offer a unique twist that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart cherries and sweet frosting creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own filling ensures freshness and allows you to control the ingredients used.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Fun to Make: Baking these rolls is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy, especially kids!
• Impressive Presentation: These rolls look stunning on any table, making them ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and successful, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having the right equipment will help you create perfect cherry cinnamon rolls every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness in your dough for uniform baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your rolls evenly.

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Ingredients

To create these delicious 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)

For the Frosting

• 6 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature
• 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

1. In a medium saucepan, combine frozen cherries, sugar, cold water, and corn starch.
2. Cook over medium heat until bubbling and thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, sugar, eggs, salt, and yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add in bread flour until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Rise the Dough

1. Place dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap.
2. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
2. Spread cooled cherry filling evenly over the dough.
3. Roll tightly from one end to another and cut into slices.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place rolls on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together butter and cream cheese until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing well.
3. Adjust consistency with milk as needed.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling with frosting. Serve warm and enjoy each delicious bite of your homemade cherry cinnamon rolls!

How to Serve Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven. They can be served in a variety of delightful ways that enhance their flavor and texture.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoying these rolls with a hot cup of coffee creates a perfect morning pairing. The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cherry filling.

Top with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Drizzle or spread extra cream cheese frosting on top for added richness. This elevates each bite, making them even more indulgent.

Serve as a Dessert

• These rolls make an excellent dessert after dinner. Their sweet, fruity flavor offers a satisfying end to any meal.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Pair your rolls with a side of fresh berries or sliced bananas. This adds freshness and balances the sweetness.

How to Perfect Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

To ensure your cherry cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Knead thoroughly: Make sure to knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This helps achieve that fluffy texture everyone loves.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This promotes better mixing and incorporation.

• Let the dough rise properly: Allow enough time for the dough to rise in a warm place. A well-risen dough results in lighter rolls.

• Check your cherries: If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them well before use. Excess moisture can affect the dough’s consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

For a complete meal experience, consider pairing your cherry cinnamon rolls with these delicious side dishes.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your meal.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy contrast that complements the sweetness of the rolls.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.

4. Breakfast Sausages: Opt for turkey or chicken sausage as a savory side that pairs well with sweet flavors.

5. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can add a nutritious element to your breakfast spread.

6. Nut Butter Toast: Whole-grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter offers a nutty flavor that works well alongside sweet rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using incorrect measurements can lead to dough that doesn’t rise properly. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the proofing step – Failing to let the dough rise can result in dense rolls. Ensure you give your dough enough time to double in size for the best texture.
• Overfilling the rolls – Adding too much filling can cause leaks during baking. Use just enough filling to keep them moist without overflowing.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold milk or eggs can hinder yeast activation. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.
• Not preheating the oven – Baking in a cold oven can affect the rise and texture of your rolls. Always preheat your oven before baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

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 on high for 20-30 seconds. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the filling for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling?

The filling is made from frozen cherries, sugar, and corn starch mixed together. Cook it until thickened and cool before spreading on the dough.

Can I substitute fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you may need to adjust the sugar depending on their sweetness.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I customize my Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, cream cheese swirls, or different spices like nutmeg to enhance flavor.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Ensure your yeast is active by checking expiration dates and using warm water that isn’t too hot. If it still doesn’t rise, consider a warmer place for proofing.

Final Thoughts

These cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect breakfast treat or dessert anytime. Feel free to customize them with different fruits or spices for your own twist!