Name: Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-484759H16M29S
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries (can use frozen, do not thaw); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest; 1-2 tablespoons milk (for consistency)

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If you’re looking for a delicious twist on the classic cinnamon roll, these Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are the perfect treat. Combining the warm, soft, and fluffy texture of traditional cinnamon rolls with the tart and sweet flavor of fresh raspberries, this recipe is a delightful variation. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, these rolls offer a balance of sweet, tart, and a hint of spice that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or as a special dessert, these raspberry cinnamon rolls are sure to impress.

The dough is soft and buttery, filled with a raspberry and cinnamon swirl that bakes up beautifully, creating the perfect balance of flavors. The lemon glaze adds a fresh and zesty finishing touch, making these rolls not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for any occasion, these raspberry cinnamon rolls will quickly become a family favorite, and they are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves sweet rolls with a bit of a fruity twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The combination of cinnamon, raspberry, and lemon creates a perfect harmony of flavors that you won’t find in your typical cinnamon rolls. The tangy raspberries paired with the warmth of cinnamon and the freshness of lemon glaze make these rolls irresistible.

2. Easy to Make

This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create these delicious rolls in no time, making them an accessible treat for everyone.

3. Perfect for Special Occasions

These raspberry cinnamon rolls are great for a special brunch, holiday mornings, or as a delightful surprise for friends and family. They make any occasion feel extra special with their beautiful presentation and amazing taste.

4. Versatile

While they’re delicious as is, you can customize these rolls with different fruits or toppings. You can swap raspberries for other berries like blueberries or strawberries, or add in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.

5. Satisfying and Delicious

These rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with the perfect amount of sweetness, making them a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether served warm right out of the oven or enjoyed later in the day, they’re the perfect comfort food.

Ingredients

Fresh raspberries
Cinnamon
Sugar
All-purpose flour
Yeast
Milk
Butter
Eggs
Salt
Lemon juice
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Variations

Different Fruits: Instead of raspberries, you can use blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different fruity twist.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the filling for some crunch.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure that your yeast and other ingredients are gluten-free if necessary.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil.
Spiced Filling: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for an extra layer of warmth and spice.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the mixture. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough rises, prepare the cinnamon raspberry filling. In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. In another bowl, mash the raspberries gently with a fork until slightly crushed.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough. Then, evenly distribute the mashed raspberries over the surface.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the log into even pieces, about 1.5 inches thick. Place the slices into a greased baking dish, ensuring they are close together but not touching.

Step 5: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, until they puff up.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the rolls cool, make the lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 8: Glaze the Rolls

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure Proper Dough Rising: Make sure your dough has enough time to rise fully for a light and fluffy texture. If the room is cool, you can place the dough in a slightly warmed oven.
Fresh Raspberries: For the best flavor, use fresh raspberries. Frozen raspberries can be used but may release more liquid, which could affect the filling consistency.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to help the dough come together more easily.
Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overfill the rolls with the raspberry mixture, as it can make them soggy. A thin layer is enough for flavor.

How to Serve

These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for serving with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They make an excellent addition to a brunch spread or can be enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack. They are best served warm, straight from the oven, or reheated slightly in the microwave for a soft, fresh taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven to bring back their softness.

Freezing

To freeze the rolls, allow them to cool completely. Place the rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat the rolls, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until warm. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 20-30 seconds for a quick reheating option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but be aware that they may release more liquid, so you may need to drain them slightly before using.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. Let it rise in the fridge overnight, and then proceed with the recipe in the morning.

3. How can I make the glaze thicker?

To thicken the glaze, simply add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Can I add other fruits to the filling?

Absolutely! Blueberries, blackberries, or even a combination of different berries can be used in place of raspberries.

5. What if my dough isn’t rising properly?

Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that your milk is warm (but not too hot) when activating it. If the dough is in a cold room, try placing it in a warmer spot for better results.

6. How long do these cinnamon rolls last?

The cinnamon rolls will last for about 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days if refrigerated.

7. Can I make these rolls without yeast?

While yeast gives the dough its fluffiness, you could try using baking powder as a substitute for a quicker version, but the texture will be different.

8. Can I freeze the rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Simply freeze them after cutting and placing them in the pan. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to thaw and rise before baking.

9. How can I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?

Ensure that the raspberry filling isn’t too wet, and avoid overfilling the rolls to prevent excess moisture from making the dough soggy.

10. Can I make these rolls dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives, like almond milk and vegan butter, to make the rolls dairy-free.

Conclusion

These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are an irresistible treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and fresh raspberries with a zesty lemon glaze. Whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast or a decadent dessert, these rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable ingredients, you can make these rolls your own and enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later.