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There’s a kitchen tucked away in my childhood home where the scent of cherry and cinnamon would dance through the air, wrapping us in warmth like a cozy blanket as my mother baked cherry cinnamon rolls every Sunday morning. It became almost a family ritual—the moment those rolls were out of the oven, my siblings and I would race to the kitchen, our noses leading the way like bloodhounds. The buttery dough, paired with the sweet-tart cherry filling and the buttery cream cheese frosting—it was nothing short of heavenly!
There’s something so comforting about the way these rolls smell as they bake, a delicious aroma that fills every nook of the house and beckons you to gather around the table. Even now, every bite takes me back to those simple moments, and I just know you and your loved ones will feel that same joy when you try these Cherry Cinnamon Rolls at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it a breeze to whip up!
- Quick Rising Time: With just one hour of rising, you’ll be on your way to delicious rolls in a jiffy.
- Flavorful Journey: The combination of tart cherries and warm cinnamon is a match made in Heaven!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or just a cozy day at home.
- Versatile: These rolls can be enjoyed fresh or transformed into delightful leftovers!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Perfect for creating a soft and fluffy dough. Make sure to spoon and level for accurate measuring!
- 2 tablespoons sugar: A touch of sweetness helps to balance the flavors beautifully.
- 1 packet active dry yeast: This little powerhouse will help your dough rise beautifully—be patient, it’s worth it!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
- 1/2 cup milk: Warm it up gently to help activate the yeast (you don’t want it too hot!).
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor—who can resist the buttery goodness?
- 1 large egg: This adds moisture and helps bind everything together for that lovely texture.
- 1 cup tart cherry pie filling: The star of the show! Use a high-quality filling for the best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This familiar spice brings a warm aroma that wraps around you like a hug.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: For a heavenly, creamy frosting!
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens up our frosting just right.
- 1 tablespoon milk (for frosting): Just a splash helps achieve that perfect drizzle consistency.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl and cover with a warm kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour or until it has doubled in size. The aroma of rising dough is simply irresistible!
2. Roll and Fill
Once the dough is ready, gently punch it down to release the air, and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough—don’t be shy! Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the filling. Now, roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, pinching the seams to seal. Use a sharp knife to slice it into 1-inch pieces and place the rolls in a greased baking pan. Let them rise again for 30 minutes; trust me, the anticipation is delicious!
3. Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and calling to you from the kitchen.
4. Frost & Serve
While the rolls bake, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk together until smooth and creamy. Drizzle that heavenly frosting over the warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven. Share them immediately, or keep them warm as you gather your loved ones around the table.
Pro Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for the easiest mixing.
- Knead Gently: Don’t over-knead your dough—just enough until smooth, and it will be perfect!
- Proofing Temperature: Find a warm spot (like the oven with only the light on) to help your dough rise.
- Fresh Vs. Canned Cherry Filling: If fresh cherries are in season, give them a try; just pit and mash them slightly!
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Cherries: Add some dark chocolate chips along with the cherry filling.
- Almond Joy: Incorporate shredded coconut and chopped almonds for a tropical twist.
- Garden Berries: Swap the cherries for raspberry or blueberry pie filling for a summer treat!
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but a cup of hot coffee or a creamy chai tea completes the experience beautifully. Serve them on rustic platters or in individual servings for a cozy breakfast spread, and don’t forget some napkins—these rolls are so tasty, you might get a bit sticky!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the dough the night before; let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. They last about 2-3 days in an airtight container at room temperature, but they’re best fresh!
Leftovers
Transform any leftover rolls into delightful bread pudding or pair them with vanilla ice cream for a scrumptious dessert. You can also crumble them into yogurt for a sweet breakfast treat!
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds for an instant treat; just be careful not to overheat and dry them out!
- Skillet: Heat with a little butter for a crispy outside and soft inside.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cherry filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure your filling isn’t too runny.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top, and you can tap the bottom gently—it should sound hollow when they’re cooked through!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix designed for baking.
Can I double the recipe?
Sure thing! Just make sure you have a larger pan and possibly adjust your baking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
Baking these Cherry Cinnamon Rolls is not just about the sweet indulgence (though that’s a big bonus!). It’s about creating moments filled with warmth and connection. As you roll, fill, and bake, let the joy of the process fill your kitchen with love and laughter. I can’t wait for you to dive into this recipe—it’s sure to bring smiles, whether at breakfast or any special occasion. Happy baking, dear friends! 🍒✨