Cranberry Sweet Rolls

The Cranberry Sweet Rolls are like a warm embrace on a chilly morning, filling the air with an irresistible aroma that’s simply enchanting. Imagine biting into the fluffy layers of sweet dough, only to be greeted by the delightful tartness of cranberries, creating an unforgettable experience. These Cranberry Sweet Rolls not only elevate your holiday breakfast table to a new level of deliciousness but also capture the essence of festive gatherings. As the scent wafts through your kitchen, it’s hard to resist the promise of a memorable culinary celebration, where each roll is a testament to the joys of Holiday Baking.

Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was the heart of our family’s Christmas gatherings. The anticipation of her trademark Cranberry Sweet Rolls fresh out of the oven was something no one could resist. I remember waking up to the comforting smell of baking sweets, which evoked a sense of warmth and love like nothing else. The best part was watching her finesse as she twisted the rolls with precision, her smile lighting up the room as she shared stories about her childhood Christmases. Those cherished moments around the table, savoring each sweet, tart bite, are memories I carry with joy.

If you’re looking to satisfy your craving for something deliciously sweet, you might want to try making this delightful cinnamon roll cheesecake or this amazing cranberry white chocolate layer cake. Both these treats would pair beautifully with the warm flavors of cranberry sweet rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Sweet Rolls

• Easy to make: These Cranberry Sweet Rolls feature simple steps that don’t require any fancy tools, making them accessible to both novice and seasoned bakers.
• Flexible: You can easily adjust the ingredients or alter the style to suit your preference, whether it’s adding a sprinkle of nuts or using dried cranberries.
• Great for busy days: Whether you’re preparing for a large family gathering or a cozy holiday brunch with friends, these rolls are quick to make and serve.
• Perfect for festive occasions: With a delightful tart cranberry flavor, these rolls make a fantastic addition to any Christmas breakfast or holiday brunch.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Cranberry Sweet Rolls

Tools You’ll Need

• Large bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Tea towels
• Oven
• Mixer

Step 1: Preparation for the Cranberry Sweet Rolls

• 4 – 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 package active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk
• ⅓ cup sugar
• ¼ cup butter
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped candied ginger
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ⅔ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• pinch of salt
• 1 – 2 tablespoons of milk
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Step 2: Cooking the Cranberry Sweet Rolls

Begin by making the dough in advance. In a large bowl, whisk together two cups of flour with the yeast. In a medium saucepan, add the milk, sugar, butter, and salt. Over medium-low heat, stir until the mixture reaches around 125 degrees Fahrenheit. Add the warmed milk mixture and eggs to the flour mixture. Beat on low/medium for about 30 seconds, scraping the bowl as needed. Beat on high for three minutes, scraping occasionally. Stir in enough of the remaining flour until the dough begins to pull away from the bowl’s sides the dough will be slightly sticky. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 6 to 24 hours.

For the cranberry filling, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, water, ginger, and orange zest in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 15 minutes or until it becomes a jam-like consistency. Allow it to cool completely before using.

Step 3: Assembling and Finishing

Once ready to assemble, punch down the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes. Roll the dough into a 13 by 18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cranberry filling over the dough. Fold the rectangle into thirds to create a 13 by 6-inch shape. Cut into twelve 6-inch strips, twist each lightly, and form into rolls with ends tucked under. Place rolls on prepared baking sheets, cover with a tea towel, and let rise in a warm location for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Bake the rolls for about 15 minutes until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. For the cream cheese drizzle, beat cream cheese and butter in a bowl. Add confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until smooth, then mix in milk until reaching the desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled Cranberry Sweet Rolls and optionally sprinkle with chopped walnuts.

Additional Sections

Tips for the Best Cranberry Sweet Rolls Every Time

• Ensure yeast freshness: Check the expiration date of the yeast for a successful rise.
• Don’t rush the rise: Allow the rolls ample time to rise for fluffier results.
• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the dough come together smoothly.

Perfect Sides to Serve with Cranberry Sweet Rolls

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side to balance the richness of the rolls.
• Mint tea: Provides a soothing contrast to the sweet and tart flavors.
• Hot cocoa: Complements the rolls as a comforting winter beverage.

Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish

• Add spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon into the dough for extra warmth.
• Substitute ingredients: Swap fresh cranberries for dried cranberries if desired.
• Enhance the drizzle: Mix in a dash of orange zest for additional zing.

FAQs About Cranberry Sweet Rolls

Q: How do you make cranberry sweet rolls from scratch?

Making cranberry sweet rolls from scratch is simpler than you might think. Start by preparing a basic yeast dough, then fill it with a homemade cranberry mixture that includes fresh cranberries, sugar, ginger, and orange zest. Bake to perfection and top with a cream cheese drizzle for a delightful treat.

Q: Can I use dried cranberries for sweet rolls?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries in your sweet rolls, but it’s best to soak them in hot water or juice for a few minutes to plump them up before adding them to the dough. This will help to retain some of the moisture lost during the drying process.

Q: What’s the difference between sweet rolls and cinnamon rolls?

Sweet rolls are versatile and can include various fillings, such as fruit or nuts, while cinnamon rolls focus on a specific cinnamon-sugar filling. Both are delicious, but cranberry sweet rolls offer a unique tartness that sets them apart.

Q: How do you store leftover cranberry rolls?

To keep your leftover cranberry rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate or freeze them; just ensure they’re wrapped well to maintain freshness.

Q: Can I freeze cranberry sweet rolls?

Absolutely! After baking, allow your cranberry sweet rolls to cool completely, then wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and rewarm before serving.

Savor the Joy of Holiday Baking with These Cranberry Sweet Rolls

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, soft cranberry sweet roll on a chilly morning, especially during the festive season. This simple yet delightful recipe brings a touch of Christmas brunch magic to your table with its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday brunch or just as a treat for a cozy morning, these rolls embrace the spirit of holiday baking in every bite. The inclusion of fresh cranberries ensures a burst of flavor that delights the taste buds and highlights the best of cranberry recipes.

Don’t forget to explore this zesty cranberry orange pound cake to complete your festive dessert collection!

We hope you enjoy these cranberry sweet rolls as much as we do! We’d love to hear how they turned out for you, so feel free to comment below or pin the recipe for later. Happy baking! 😊

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