If you’re searching for a delightful twist on a classic treat, this Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is just the thing to add a splash of brightness and festive flair to your baking repertoire. Imagine tender, fluffy rolls filled with a warmly spiced cinnamon and sweet tart cranberries, all kissed with the zest and juice of fresh oranges. This recipe is a celebration of color, flavor, and texture that will have your kitchen smelling like a cozy bakery and your friends asking for seconds before you know it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect batch of these cranberry orange cinnamon rolls requires simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an essential role. From the yeast that gives the dough its airy rise to the bright orange zest that takes the flavor to the next level, every ingredient counts in building that irresistible balance of sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced goodness.
- Yeast (2 packages): Activates the dough, creating a fluffy, soft texture.
- Lukewarm water (1 cup + 2 cups hot water): Essential for proofing yeast and bringing the dough together smoothly.
- Shortening or softened butter (6 tablespoons): Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup + 3/4 cup for sprinkling + 1/2 cup for topping): Provides sweetness and helps caramelize the exterior during baking.
- All-purpose flour (7 cups, plus extra if needed): The structure of your dough, ensuring perfect chewiness.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Binds ingredients and adds moisture for a tender crumb.
- Salt (1 tablespoon): Enhances all the other flavors and balances sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup softened + 4 tablespoons for frosting): For the filling richness and luscious frosting.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup): Brings deep caramel notes to the cinnamon sugar filling.
- Dried cranberries (1 1/2 cups + 3/4 cup for filling): Burst of tartness that pairs beautifully with orange and cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The warm spice that transforms these rolls into a comforting treat.
- Orange zest (zest of 2 large oranges + 1 for topping + 1 1/2 tablespoons for frosting): Packs citrusy brightness throughout the rolls and frosting.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): For a smooth, sweet frosting that melts over warm rolls.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Adds creaminess to your frosting blend.
- Fresh orange juice (2 tablespoons): Tangy touch to the frosting for a perfect finishing note.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by dissolving the yeast in one cup of lukewarm water and gently stirring. Let it sit for about five minutes. This crucial step wakes up the yeast, ensuring your rolls will rise beautifully with a lovely airy texture.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients and Begin Dough
In your stand mixer, combine the shortening, sugar, and salt with hot water, beating briskly for 30 seconds to dissolve and mix. Allow this mixture to cool to lukewarm temperature before stirring in 2 cups of flour and mixing until smooth. Then incorporate your proofed yeast and beaten eggs, blending well. The gradual addition of ingredients keeps the dough smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Slowly mix in the remaining flour using a dough hook for around two minutes. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead by hand, sprinkling extra flour as needed if the dough feels sticky. Keep kneading until the dough feels satiny smooth—this tactile cue is your best indicator of readiness.
Step 4: First Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size. This stage develops the dough’s structure and flavor depth, setting the foundation for tender rolls.
Step 5: Prepare and Fill the Dough
Once risen, divide the dough in half. Roll one half into a rectangle and spread evenly with softened butter. Sprinkle brown sugar, dried cranberries, and cinnamon over the buttery canvas, followed by a mix of orange zest rubbed with granulated sugar for that brightness and sweetness. These layers ensure every bite bursts with a harmony of tastes and textures.
Step 6: Roll and Cut
Carefully roll the dough into a long log and slice it into approximately two-inch pieces using dental floss or thread for clean cuts. Dip each piece into the orange zest and sugar mixture, coating them perfectly. Place the rolls into greased 9×13 baking pans and repeat the process with the other dough half—that way, you won’t miss any of that luscious filling.
Step 7: Second Rise and Bake
Cover the pans with a towel and allow the rolls to double in bulk for about an hour. Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown and irresistible. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack to set before frosting.
Step 8: Make the Frosting and Finish
Whisk together softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, orange zest, and fresh orange juice until smooth and creamy. Generously slather this frosting over the warm rolls so it melts right in, giving each bite a luscious, tangy-sweet finish that perfectly complements the cozy cinnamon and tart cranberries.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
These rolls are at their best enjoyed warm. If you have leftovers, simply microwave each roll for about 15 seconds to revive their soft, fresh-baked magic.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of extra orange zest or a few fresh cranberries atop the frosted rolls for a pop of color and an inviting citrus aroma. You can also drizzle a little orange glaze made from powdered sugar and juice to enhance the glossy finish and zingy flavor profile.
Side Dishes
These cranberry orange cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a rich chai latte for a comforting breakfast or brunch. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad with seasonal berries to keep the meal light and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a decorative platter and top with edible flowers or finely chopped candied orange peel. You can also twist the dough into individual knotted rolls before baking for a charming variation that still highlights all the perfect flavors of the Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cranberry orange cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness. Keeping the frosting separate and adding it just before serving helps prevent the rolls from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze both unbaked and baked rolls. For unbaked, place the wrapped rolls in the freezer before the second rise. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and then let rise before baking. Baked rolls freeze well too—wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil to keep their moisture locked in.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or chilled rolls by microwaving for about 15 seconds or warming in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes covered with foil. This brings back their soft, fresh-from-the-oven texture and enhances the fragrant synergy of cinnamon and orange zest.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried for this recipe?
Fresh cranberries have a higher moisture content than dried ones, which might affect the dough’s consistency and the final texture of the rolls. If you want to use fresh, consider lightly roasting or sautéing them first to reduce moisture and concentrate their flavor.
What can I substitute for shortening in the dough?
Butter is a delicious substitute for shortening. It will add a richer flavor but might make the dough slightly less tender. Using softened butter one-for-one will maintain great results and enhance the overall taste.
Is it necessary to use a stand mixer for making the dough?
Not at all! While a stand mixer with a dough hook makes the kneading process easier, you can knead the dough by hand. It just requires a bit more elbow grease but is equally effective and satisfying.
How can I make these cranberry orange cinnamon rolls vegan?
To veganize the recipe, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement, use plant-based butter alternatives, and choose a non-dairy milk for the frosting. Make sure your sugar is organic or certified vegan to avoid bone char processing.
Can these rolls be made ahead and refrigerated overnight?
Yes! After shaping the rolls, cover them well and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking, which also gives them a gentle second rise. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about pulling a pan of gleaming, cozy cranberry orange cinnamon rolls from the oven, their bright flavors inviting you to savor every bite. This Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe combines traditional comfort with a fruity twist that will quickly become a cherished favorite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a weekend brunch, or just because, don’t hesitate to try these rolls—they promise to deliver smiles and sticky fingers in every serving!
Print
Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, infused with zesty orange flavor and studded with tart dried cranberries. Perfectly soft and sweet, they feature a cinnamon-sugar filling with a bright orange sugar topping and a creamy orange-infused frosting, making them an irresistible treat for any breakfast or brunch occasion.
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 2 packages yeast (dissolved in 1 cup lukewarm water)
- 6 tablespoons shortening or softened butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 7 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra if dough is sticky)
- 2 cups hot water
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Zest of 2 large oranges
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Orange Sugar Topping:
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
For the Frosting:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Add yeast to 1 cup of lukewarm water. Stir with a spoon and set aside for about five minutes to activate and become foamy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine shortening, sugar, and salt with hot water. Beat for 30 seconds, then let cool to lukewarm. Stir in 2 cups flour and mix until smooth. Add the yeast mixture and mix thoroughly. Finally, mix in the beaten eggs.
- Add Remaining Flour and Knead: Gradually stir in the remaining flour. Using the dough hook attachment, mix for about 2 minutes. Remove dough from bowl and place on floured surface. Knead by hand, adding flour as needed to prevent stickiness, until the dough feels satiny and smooth.
- First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Dough for Filling: Remove risen dough onto a floured surface and divide in half. Roll out one half into a rectangle. Spread evenly with 4 tablespoons softened butter. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup dried cranberries, and 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon. In a small bowl, rub together orange zest and granulated sugar, then sprinkle half over the dough.
- Roll and Cut: Carefully roll the dough into a long log. Use dental floss or thread to cut into 2-inch thick rolls. Prepare the orange sugar mixture by rubbing zest of one orange with 1/2 cup sugar. Dip and twist each roll into this mixture. Place rolls in greased 9×13 inch baking pans. Repeat the process with the other half of dough.
- Second Rise and Bake: Cover the pans with a towel and let the rolls rise in a warm spot until doubled in bulk, about an hour. Preheat oven to 425°F. Bake rolls for 10 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool on wire racks for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk together softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, orange zest, and fresh orange juice until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and Serve: Generously frost the warm rolls with the orange frosting. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. To reheat leftovers, microwave each roll for about 15 seconds.
Notes
- Best served warm to enjoy the soft texture and melty frosting.
- Dental floss or thread is an ideal tool for cutting rolls without squishing them.
- Add flour gradually to prevent the dough from becoming too tough.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container; reheat gently before serving.
- If you prefer, substitute shortening with all butter for a richer flavor.
