Get ready to indulge in warm, soft, and delightful Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls! These treats mix sweet cranberries with zesty orange, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, I’ll guide you step-by-step through this easy recipe. Let’s transform simple ingredients into an irresistible treat your family will love. Dive in and discover how to create these mouthwatering rolls!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 large eggs
– Zest of 1 medium orange
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
The main ingredients for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are simple yet essential. First, all-purpose flour provides the base. It gives the rolls their soft structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, balancing the tartness of cranberries. Instant yeast helps the dough rise quickly. Salt enhances the flavors and controls fermentation.
Warmed whole milk and melted butter enrich the dough. They add moisture and create a tender crumb. Two large eggs contribute to the dough’s richness. The zest of one medium orange brings a bright, fresh flavor. Fresh cranberries give a burst of tartness, while ground cinnamon adds warmth. Finally, fresh orange juice ties the flavors together.
Ingredients for the Glaze
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
– Zest of 1 medium orange
For the glaze, start with powdered sugar. This gives a sweet and smooth finish. Fresh orange juice adds tang and brightness. Use orange zest for an extra flavor kick. The combination creates a perfect topping for the warm rolls.
Each ingredient plays a key role in making these rolls soft and irresistible. The balance of flavors makes every bite delightful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Dough
First, gather your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Make sure to mix these well so they blend perfectly. Now, in another bowl, blend the wet ingredients. Combine:
– 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed to about 110°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
– 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
– Zest of 1 medium orange
Mix these until smooth. Then, slowly pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until the dough feels a bit sticky but easy to handle.
Kneading and Rising
Next, it’s time to knead the dough. Dust your work surface with flour. Transfer the dough and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. It should feel smooth and elastic. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Preparing the Filling
After the first rise, gently punch the dough down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle of about 12×18 inches. In a small bowl, mix:
– 1 cup fresh cranberries (finely chopped)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
Spread this mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Seal the seam by pinching it closed. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the pieces cut-side up in a greased baking dish, close together. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Final Rise and Baking
Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, let the rolls complete their second rise. Once ready, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes. They should puff up and turn golden brown on top.
Glazing the Rolls
While the rolls bake, prepare the glaze. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
– Zest of 1 medium orange
Adjust the juice for your desired thickness. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls for a sweet finish. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
To make soft rolls, you need the right dough texture. The dough should feel slightly sticky but not wet. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, which makes the rolls rise nicely.
Using room temperature ingredients is key. Cold eggs or milk can slow down yeast activity. Warmed milk helps the yeast work better. Let your eggs sit out for a bit before starting. This simple step makes a big difference in the final product.
Baking Tips
Even baking is important for perfect rolls. Place your baking dish in the center of the oven. This ensures even heat around the rolls. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the dish halfway through baking.
To check for doneness, look for a golden brown top. You can also tap the bottom of a roll; it should sound hollow. This means they are baked through.
Glaze Consistency
The glaze should be smooth and easy to drizzle. If it is too thick, add more orange juice. If too thin, add more powdered sugar. You can adjust to your liking.
For a fun twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the glaze. This adds a nice layer of flavor that complements the rolls.
Variations
Different Fruit Options
You can change the fruit in these rolls. Using dried cranberries gives a sweeter taste. Dried fruit also adds a chewy texture. If you prefer, you can add raisins or cherries. Both fruits pair nicely with the orange flavor. Cherries add a tartness that brightens the rolls. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Alternative Glazes
Glazes can give your rolls a special touch. You can try flavors like vanilla or almond extract. Both add a unique twist to the glaze. To make a vanilla glaze, just mix vanilla extract with the powdered sugar and orange juice. For an almond glaze, use almond extract instead. These flavors can change the whole feel of the rolls. Experiment and see what you enjoy best!
Gluten-Free Adaptation
If you need gluten-free rolls, you can adapt the recipe. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Look for blends that have xanthan gum in them. This helps give the dough the right texture. You might also want to add a bit more liquid. This ensures the rolls stay soft and moist. Remember to check your ingredients for hidden gluten. Enjoy your sweet rolls without worry!
Storage Info
Keeping Your Rolls Fresh
To keep your Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their softness. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap for extra protection.
For longer storage, freeze the rolls. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping each roll tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This will prevent freezer burn and keep them safe for up to three months.
To reheat, simply take out the rolls and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive their soft texture. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds for a quick fix.
Shelf Life
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls last about 2-3 days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to ensure freshness. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to a week.
Frozen rolls can last for up to three months. After that, they may lose taste and texture. When stored properly, you can enjoy these sweet rolls for a long time!
FAQs
Can I make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Make the dough and let it rise. After the first rise, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can store it in the fridge overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before rolling and shaping.
How can I make these rolls vegan?
To make these rolls vegan, swap the eggs for flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. For milk, use almond milk or soy milk. Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls?
These rolls pair well with many drinks and sides. Try serving them with hot tea or coffee. A nice orange juice is a great choice too. For sides, consider a light fruit salad or yogurt. These options complement the sweet and tart flavors.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries. They will make the rolls sweeter and chewier. Dried cranberries also have a softer texture compared to fresh ones. If you choose dried, cut back on added sugar in the filling. This will balance the flavors nicely.
These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat to make and share. We covered the key ingredients, mixing steps, and baking tips. With a bit of practice, you can perfect the dough and glaze. Don’t hesitate to try different fruits or adjust the glaze to your taste. Enjoy these rolls fresh or store them for later. No matter how you enjoy them, they will surely brighten your day. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and each bite will be worth it. Happy baking!
