Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that combine the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of orange. These rolls are perfect for holiday brunches or as a make-ahead breakfast option. With their soft, homemade dough and luscious orange blossom glaze, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tart balance of cranberries paired with fragrant orange blossom makes each bite irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These sweet rolls are great for festive gatherings, lazy weekends, or even as a thoughtful gift.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh in the morning for a warm breakfast treat.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust the sweetness or add nuts and spices to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe.
• Beautiful Presentation: The orange blossom glaze adds a lovely finishing touch, making these rolls as beautiful as they are tasty.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect roll thickness for even baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even cooking surface for your sweet rolls.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Soft, homemade dough flavored with orange blossom water and filled with sweet cranberry filling. Each topped with an orange blossom glaze. Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are the perfect holiday brunch or make-ahead breakfast.

For the Filling

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

For the Dough

• 1 cup warm milk (105°F – 115°F, divided)
• 2 ¼ active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (plus 1 tablespoon)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon orange blossom water
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

How to Make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by preparing the cranberry filling. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
1. The cranberries, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter.
2. Cook until the cranberries burst and become syrupy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In another bowl:
1. Mix half of the warm milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar.
2. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the remaining warm milk, melted butter, Greek yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, orange blossom water, zest of orange, salt, sugar, yeast mixture, and flour.
2. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl:
1. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
2. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 5: Assemble Sweet Rolls

Once risen:
1. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
2. Spread the cooled cranberry filling evenly over it.
3. Roll up tightly from one long side to form a log.

Step 6: Cut into Rolls

Cut the log into equal pieces:
1. Place them on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Cover them again to rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake rolls for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze

While rolls bake:
1. In a bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, orange blossom water, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.

Step 9: Glaze and Serve

Once baked:
1. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are delightful and versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or an elegant holiday gathering, these sweet rolls can be served in multiple ways to enhance their flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Accompany with Seasonal Fruits: Pair your sweet rolls with fresh fruits like berries, oranges, or apples for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• Add More Orange Blossom Glaze: For those who love sweetness, drizzle additional orange blossom glaze over the top just before serving to intensify the flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate the rolls and add a creamy texture that complements the fruity filling.

On a Festive Platter

• Create a Sweet Roll Platter: Arrange the rolls on a beautiful platter alongside other pastries to create an eye-catching centerpiece for brunch or dessert tables.

How to Perfect Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Perfecting your Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls is all about attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls come out soft and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh cranberries and high-quality butter for the best flavor.

• Check Yeast Freshness: Ensure your yeast is active by testing it in warm milk before mixing. It should froth up within minutes.

• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten for fluffy rolls.

• Let Dough Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm area until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for light, airy rolls.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake. They should be golden brown but not too dark; overbaking can lead to dry rolls.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some suggestions that work beautifully together:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a creamy and crunchy side that contrasts nicely with soft rolls.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and richness, making this a well-rounded meal option.

4. Crispy Hash Browns: The crispy texture of hash browns offers a delightful crunch alongside the soft sweet rolls.

5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can enhance the flavors without overpowering them, creating a savory complement.

6. Green Salad: A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette adds crispness and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of your rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Dough Temperature: If the milk is too hot or too cold, it can affect yeast activation. Ensure the milk is warm (105°F – 115°F) before adding the yeast.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough rolls. Mix until just combined and let it rest to develop gluten naturally.
• Skipping the Rise Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size as directed.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Old yeast or stale flour can ruin your rolls. Always check expiration dates on your ingredients before baking.
• Neglecting Glaze Application: A well-applied glaze enhances flavor and appearance. Brush the glaze on warm rolls for better absorption.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure the rolls have cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 20-30 seconds on medium power. Be cautious not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls.

Can I use dried cranberries instead?

Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries. Just soak them in warm water or juice for about 15 minutes before using them in the filling.

What if I don’t have orange blossom water?

If orange blossom water isn’t available, you can use orange zest or a little bit of orange extract as an alternative flavoring.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

Your Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. Refrigerate overnight and bake fresh in the morning.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls bring together delightful flavors that make any breakfast or brunch special. Their soft texture and sweet glaze offer versatility; you can customize fillings or add toppings like nuts or chocolate chips. Try this recipe for your next gathering!