Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

If you’re looking for a delicious and unique twist on classic cinnamon rolls, these Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are just what you need. Soft, fluffy dough is filled with a tangy homemade cherry filling and topped with a creamy, rich cream cheese frosting. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert that will impress your friends and family.

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 tablespoons cornstarch (20g)

For the Dough:

• 1⁄4 cup warm water (60g)
• 1 teaspoon 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 teaspoon salt (3g)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (57g)
• 3 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (85g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (260g)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1-3 tablespoons whole milk (20-60g)

Directions:

1. Make the Cherry Filling:

• Cook the cherries: In a medium-sized pan, combine the frozen cherries and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture over medium-high heat until it comes to a gentle boil.
• Thicken the filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the cold water and cornstarch until dissolved. Gradually stir this mixture into the boiling cherries, stirring continuously until thickened.
• Cool the filling: Remove the cherry filling from heat and allow it to cool. Transfer it to a bowl and refrigerate while preparing the dough.

2. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the warm water, active dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes, or until the yeast becomes bubbly and activated.

3. Make the Dough:

• Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the bloomed yeast mixture, milk, sugar, and eggs.
• Mix in dry ingredients: Sift the bread flour and salt into the wet mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
• Add butter and knead: Add the room temperature butter to the dough and knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook, or by hand, for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
• First rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place (around 72°F or 22°C) for about 1 hour, or until it nearly doubles in size.

4. Make the Rolls:

• Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 14″x16″ rectangle.
• Add cherry filling: Spread the chilled cherry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch margin along one edge to help seal the roll.
• Roll and cut: Starting from the opposite end of the margin, gently roll the dough into a tight log. Lightly wet the margin with water to seal the roll, and let it rest seam-side down for a minute. Using a sharp non-serrated knife, cut the dough into 12 equal-sized rolls and arrange them in an 11″ x 15″ baking pan.

5. Second Rise:

• Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Let the rolls rise: Allow the rolls to rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes until they become visibly puffed and increase in size.

6. Bake and Frost:

• Bake the rolls: Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned.
• Prepare the frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together the butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk to your desired consistency.
• Frost the rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 15 minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes:

• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Store the rolled dough in the fridge and bake fresh in the morning for an easy, fresh treat.
• Filling Variations: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or swapping cherries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor twist.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 1 hour (excluding rising time)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories: 380 kcal per roll

These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are a delicious combination of soft dough, tangy cherry filling, and creamy frosting. The balance of sweet and tart makes them a perfect indulgent breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these rolls are sure to be a hit!

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