Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling Recipe
These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling combine the classic warm spices of cinnamon rolls with the sweet-tart burst of fresh or frozen cherries. Soft, fluffy dough is filled with a luscious cherry cinnamon mixture, baked to golden perfection, then topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, these rolls bring a cozy, nostalgic treat with every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter)
- 2 large eggs (or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for egg-free option)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (or vegan cream cheese)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy to ensure the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs (or applesauce). Mix until all ingredients come together into a rough dough.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and not sticky. Add a little flour if necessary during kneading.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, mix together chopped cherries, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
- Shape the Rolls: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then evenly distribute the cherry filling on top.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a serrated knife to cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Second Rise: Place the slices cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they turn a golden brown color and are cooked through.
- Make Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling with the cream cheese frosting. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Try swapping the cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or other berries for a different fruit flavor.
- If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain well to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Make-ahead option: After kneading, refrigerate the dough overnight and bring to room temperature before shaping.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure milk is warmed to about 110°F for ideal yeast activation.
- For easier slicing, use a serrated knife to cut the rolled dough into slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: cherry cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls, cherry filling, homemade frosting, breakfast treat, dessert rolls, sweet rolls
