Prep Time: ~30–45 minutes | Rise Time: ~1–2 hours | Cook Time: ~25–35 minutes | Total Time: ~2–3 hours | Yield: ~9–12 rolls
Introduction
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are soft, fluffy rolls filled with a bright cranberry-orange filling and finished with a sweet citrus glaze. They’re perfect for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or any time you want a fruity, comforting treat.
Why You’ll Love These Rolls
- Tender, buttery dough with vibrant fruit filling
- Sweet citrus glaze complements tart cranberries
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
- Makes an eye-catching festive tray
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
- Warm milk
- Sugar
- Active dry yeast
- Eggs
- Unsalted butter, softened
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
For the Filling
- Fresh cranberries, chopped
- Brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
- Orange zest (from 1–2 oranges)
- Optional: ground cinnamon or spice
For the Orange Glaze
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh orange juice
- Optional: extra orange zest
Flavor Profile
These sweet rolls are buttery and soft with a tangy cranberry filling and fragrant orange zest. The citrus glaze adds brightness and sweetness that enhances the roll’s fruity flavor and makes each bite pop.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dough
Warm the milk until just slightly warm.
In a bowl, combine the warm milk with yeast and a little sugar until foamy.
In a separate large bowl, mix the remaining sugar, eggs, softened butter, flour, and salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture and knead until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1–2 hours).
2. Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, brown sugar (or sugar), and orange zest. Mix until evenly combined.
3. Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the risen dough into a large rectangle.
Spread the cranberry-orange filling evenly over the dough.
4. Shape the Rolls
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log.
Slice the log into even pieces (about 9–12 rolls). Place them in a greased baking dish.
5. Second Rise
Cover the rolls and let them rise a second time until puffy (about 30–45 minutes).
6. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Make the Glaze
While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth.
8. Glaze & Serve
Drizzle the orange glaze over warm rolls. Add extra orange zest if desired.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, so it doesn’t kill the yeast.
- Chop cranberries finely so they distribute evenly.
- Allow both rises to finish fully for the fluffiest texture.
- Glaze while rolls are warm so it seeps into every nook.
How to Serve
Serve warm with extra glaze or butter. These rolls pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or a fruit salad at brunch.
Storage & Freshness
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. Reheat gently before serving to soften and refresh.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are soft, fruity, and citrusy — a festive and comforting treat that’s perfect for holidays, brunch, or any special occasion!
