Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe: A Perfect Holiday Treat

Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are a delightful combination of tart cranberries, zesty oranges, and warm spices that will fill your home with a festive aroma. Perfect for holiday brunches or special occasions, these soft and sweet rolls are crowned with a luscious orange glaze that balances the flavors beautifully. Whether you’re making them for Christmas morning or a cozy weekend breakfast, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are the epitome of holiday comfort food. With a soft, fluffy dough and a rich cranberry-orange filling, they’re not only delicious but also visually stunning. The fresh orange glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the tart cranberries. Plus, this recipe is relatively easy to follow and makes a large batch, making it ideal for serving a crowd. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, these rolls will be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering rolls:

For the Dough:

• Milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the dough.
• Butter: Provides richness and flavor.
• Rapid-rise yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly for a light texture.
• Flour: The base of the dough.
• White sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor balance.
• Orange zest: Infuses the dough with a citrusy fragrance.
• Egg: Gives the dough structure and texture.

For the Orange Filling:

• Butter: Spreads easily over the dough to create a creamy texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
• Orange zest: Boosts the citrus flavor.

For the Cranberry Filling:

• Cranberries: The star of the filling, providing a tart and tangy contrast.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cranberries.
• Orange zest and juice: Elevates the flavor of the filling with fresh citrus.
• Cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth to the filling.

For the Orange Glaze:

• Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, thick glaze.
• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth consistency to the glaze.
• Milk: Helps to achieve the right glaze consistency.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
• Orange juice and zest: Bring fresh citrus notes to the glaze.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to customize the recipe to suit dietary preferences, here are some ideas:

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter and almond milk in the dough and glaze.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you add enough binding agents.
• Sugar-Free: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

1. Prepare the Cranberry Filling: In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest and juice, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Let it cool.
2. Make the Dough: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and add the milk, warming it slightly. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for a couple of minutes to activate. Mix the dry ingredients in a stand mixer bowl, then add the milk mixture and egg. Beat on medium speed until combined. Add the orange zest and remaining flour. Knead with the dough hook for about 5 minutes.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the orange filling evenly over the dough, then spoon the cooled cranberry filling on top. Be careful not to overfill, as it will make rolling tricky.
4. Form the Rolls: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the edges to seal. Cut the roll into 1.5-inch sections and place them in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover and let them rise for about 1 hour.
5. Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-30 minutes, until golden brown on top.
6. Make the Orange Glaze: In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and orange juice. Mix until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the rolls while they are still warm.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

• Cold Cranberry Filling: Ensure the cranberry filling is cooled before spreading it on the dough to prevent the butter from melting and causing a gooey mess.
• Don’t Overfill: Start with a small amount of cranberry filling and add more as needed. Leaving some room around the edges will help keep everything together as you roll the dough.
• Perfectly Golden Rolls: Watch the rolls closely while baking. They should be golden on top and soft in the center. If the tops are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil for the remainder of the baking time.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are perfect for serving with a hot cup of coffee or tea at breakfast or brunch. Pair them with a fresh fruit salad, scrambled eggs, or a rich creamy yogurt for a balanced meal. For variations, try adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for some extra crunch. You can also make these rolls ahead of time by refrigerating the dough overnight or freezing the unbaked rolls for later.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To prepare these rolls ahead of time, you can refrigerate the dough overnight before baking. Simply follow the recipe until the rolls are assembled, then cover and refrigerate. The next morning, allow them to rise at room temperature for 2-3 hours before baking. For freezing, bake the rolls, let them cool, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Why Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Are Perfect for Holidays

Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are a festive and visually stunning addition to any holiday spread. The vibrant colors from the cranberries and the aromatic citrus glaze make them an appealing choice for special occasions. Plus, the balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors makes them an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy brunch with friends, these rolls are sure to bring a touch of holiday magic to the table.

With their soft texture, tangy cranberry filling, and sweet orange glaze, these rolls are a perfect blend of seasonal flavors that will leave everyone asking for more. Make them a part of your holiday traditions, and enjoy the joy they bring to your home!

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are more than just a treat; they’re a celebration of seasonal flavors wrapped up in a soft, pillowy dough. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive holiday breakfast, a brunch gathering, or just a cozy weekend morning, these sweet rolls are sure to become a favorite. With their balance of tart cranberries, citrusy orange glaze, and the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, these rolls create a truly unforgettable experience. The recipe’s simplicity, combined with its rich, indulgent flavors, makes it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike.

Prepare these Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, the joy they bring to your table, and the smiles they inspire. Happy baking!

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