Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of soft, pillowy dough, sweet cinnamon-spiced filling, and a burst of fresh blueberries. These rolls offer a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll by adding juicy blueberries, creating a balance of warm spices and fruity sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, brunch, or simply as a treat to share with family and friends, these rolls are sure to impress.

The beauty of these cinnamon rolls lies in their fluffy texture and rich, comforting flavor. The cinnamon filling adds just the right amount of spice, while the blueberries provide a fresh, tangy contrast that brightens each bite. Topped with a drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar, these Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious and visually stunning dessert or breakfast option that everyone will love.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these cinnamon rolls are surprisingly easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Once you bake them, your kitchen will be filled with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and blueberries, creating the perfect atmosphere for a cozy morning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Unique Flavor Combination – The blueberries provide a fresh twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, balancing the spiced filling with a fruity burst.
  2. Soft and Fluffy Texture – The dough is tender and light, giving the rolls that melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone loves.
  3. Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can successfully create these rolls.
  4. Perfect for Brunch or Dessert – These rolls work well as a sweet breakfast treat or a delicious dessert to serve at gatherings or holiday celebrations.
  5. Customizable – You can adjust the amount of cinnamon, blueberries, and icing, making the recipe easy to tailor to your preferences.

Ingredients

  • Active dry yeast
  • Warm milk
  • Granulated sugar
  • Butter
  • Eggs
  • All-purpose flour
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Fresh blueberries
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cream cheese (for the icing)
  • Heavy cream or milk (for the icing)

Variations

  • Frozen Blueberries: If fresh blueberries aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen blueberries, though they may release more juice, so be mindful of adding too much moisture to the filling.
  • Lemon Glaze: For a citrusy twist, replace the vanilla extract in the icing with lemon zest or a little lemon juice to create a fresh lemon glaze.
  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
  • Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk and a tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until foamy. Add the melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix until the dough begins to form. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar. Set aside. Also, prepare the fresh blueberries by washing them and patting them dry with a paper towel.

Step 4: Roll the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter. Gently scatter the blueberries on top of the cinnamon-sugar layer.

Step 5: Roll and Slice

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once rolled, cut the dough into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and place the cinnamon rolls inside, leaving a little space between each one. Cover with a towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes, or until puffed up. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing

While the rolls are baking, make the icing. In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Add a little heavy cream or milk to thin the icing to your desired consistency.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over the top of each roll. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Don’t Overmix the Dough: Be careful not to overwork the dough when kneading. You want it to be smooth and elastic, but not tough.
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs helps the dough rise more effectively.
  • Let the Rolls Rise Properly: Give the dough enough time to rise. This step is essential for achieving soft, fluffy rolls.
  • Handle Blueberries Gently: Fresh blueberries are delicate, so be gentle when spreading them on the dough to avoid smashing them.

How to Serve

Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven. They make an excellent breakfast or brunch item, especially when paired with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more indulgent treat, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh them, simply reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked cinnamon rolls. After slicing the rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let them rise for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat cinnamon rolls, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm. You can also microwave individual rolls for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, frozen blueberries work, but be careful, as they can release more juice. You may want to drain them slightly before adding them to the dough.
  2. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, refrigerate it, and bake the rolls in the morning.
  3. How long do these cinnamon rolls last? They will stay fresh for about 2 days at room temperature or up to a week if stored in the fridge.
  4. Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls? Yes, freeze the unbaked rolls, then bake them fresh when needed for a quick breakfast treat.
  5. Can I use a stand mixer to make the dough? Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough, which will save time and effort.
  6. Can I make the icing without cream cheese? Yes, you can make a simple powdered sugar glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract.
  7. Why didn’t my dough rise? The yeast may not have been active. Make sure to proof the yeast properly by checking that it foams in warm water before adding it to the dough.
  8. Can I use a different type of fruit? Yes, you can substitute the blueberries with other fruits, such as raspberries, blackberries, or apples.
  9. How can I make these rolls fluffier? Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise and ensure the yeast is fresh.
  10. How can I make the rolls sweeter? If you like sweeter rolls, increase the sugar in the cinnamon filling or drizzle extra icing on top.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and fresh twist on a classic treat. The combination of the warm cinnamon filling and juicy blueberries creates a perfect balance of flavors, making these rolls a hit at any breakfast or brunch table. With soft, fluffy dough and a simple, yet indulgent icing, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe


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  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 2 hours (includes rise time)
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious twist on the classic cinnamon roll, featuring a buttery, fluffy dough filled with cinnamon sugar and fresh blueberries. The rolls are topped with a sweet glaze, making them the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. Soft, gooey, and bursting with flavor, these cinnamon rolls will become a family favorite!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup whole milk (lukewarm)

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or one packet)

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 large eggs

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed)

  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries (you can also use frozen blueberries, but do not thaw them)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons milk

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a separate large bowl, mix the melted butter, salt, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture to the butter mixture, stirring to combine.

  2. Make the Dough: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

  3. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon-sugar filling. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and spreadable.

  4. Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16×12 inches. Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter evenly across the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the fresh blueberries over the cinnamon filling.

  5. Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces (use a sharp knife or dental floss to make clean cuts). Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, arranging them in a snug, single layer. Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until puffed.

  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent overbaking.

  7. Prepare the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth. If you want a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar, and for a thinner glaze, add more milk.

  8. Glaze the Rolls: Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls for a sweet, creamy finish.

  9. Serve: Enjoy these delicious Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls warm, straight from the pan! They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet treat after dinner.

Notes

  • If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven.

  • For a lemony twist, you can add some lemon zest to the glaze or sprinkle it on the dough before rolling it up.

  • You can use frozen blueberries, but make sure not to thaw them to prevent excess moisture in the dough.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rise time)
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: American
  • Cuisine: Vegetarian

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