Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls: 5 Tips for Perfect Rolls

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Nothing beats the delightful combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges wrapped in soft, pillowy sweet rolls. These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a must-have for any holiday breakfast or brunch. The added bonus? A fragrant orange glaze drizzled over the top, making these rolls even more irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress family and friends or treat yourself to something special, this recipe delivers on every front.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls stand out as a unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. They’re quick to prepare, making them a great choice for busy mornings or festive gatherings. The tartness of cranberries and the brightness of orange zest create a delightful contrast that pairs wonderfully with the soft, buttery dough. Plus, the fresh orange glaze is the perfect finishing touch, elevating the rolls to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Ingredients

For these irresistible rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dough

• Milk: Adds moisture and helps activate the yeast.
• Butter: Brings richness and flavor to the dough.
• Rapid-rise yeast: Ensures quick rising for soft, fluffy rolls.
• Flour: The main structure of the dough.
• White sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Orange zest: Infuses the dough with a citrusy aroma.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough together, creating a soft texture.

Orange Filling

• Butter: Spreads easily over the dough, making it rich and flavorful.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the orange filling.
• Orange zest: Amplifies the orange flavor throughout the roll.

Cranberry Filling

• Cranberries: The star of the filling, offering tartness and color.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cranberry sauce.
• Orange juice and zest: Enhances the cranberry flavor with a citrus twist.
• Cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg: Warm spices that bring depth and complexity to the filling.

Orange Glaze

• Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth and sweet glaze.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth.
• Butter: Makes the glaze silky and smooth.
• Milk: Thinens the glaze for easy drizzling.
• Orange juice and zest: Brings the perfect citrusy finish to your rolls.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for substitutions or need to cater to dietary preferences, consider these options:

Gluten-free flour: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Dairy-free: Use almond milk and dairy-free butter to accommodate lactose intolerances.
Maple syrup: Replace sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor in both the dough and filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cranberry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, zest, and spices. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
Make the Dough
Melt the butter and warm the milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the yeast and let it activate for 1-2 minutes. Mix the dry ingredients in a stand mixer, then combine with the wet mixture and egg. Add the orange zest and knead with a dough hook until smooth, around 5 minutes.
Prepare the Orange Filling
Mix together the butter, sugar, and orange zest in a small bowl.
Assemble the Rolls
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a long rectangle. Spread the orange butter mixture evenly over the dough, then spoon the cranberry filling on top, leaving space around the edges. Roll the dough tightly and pinch the edges to seal.
Shape the Rolls
Cut the dough into 1.5-inch rolls and place them in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover with a towel and let them rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, butter, milk, vanilla extract, orange juice, and zest to create a smooth glaze.
Finish the Rolls
Once the rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the orange glaze generously over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Tips & Tricks

Use cold cranberry filling: Ensure the cranberry sauce is completely cooled before spreading it over the dough. This prevents the butter from melting and keeps the filling in place.
Don’t overload the filling: When spreading the cranberry sauce, use a light hand. Too much filling will make the rolls harder to roll up.
Let the rolls rise properly: Allow the dough to rise in a warm area to ensure soft and fluffy rolls.
Glaze with care: Drizzle the orange glaze when the rolls are still warm, but not hot. This ensures the glaze sets perfectly.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are delicious on their own, but you can easily pair them with other holiday treats. Consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or a savory dish like scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast. You can also make these rolls gluten-free or dairy-free for those with dietary restrictions. If you’re making these rolls for a festive brunch, consider adding a spiced apple cider or mimosas for a delightful pairing.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Overnight preparation: You can prepare the rolls the night before. Simply assemble the rolls, place them in the fridge overnight, and let them rise the next morning before baking.
Freezing: If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, freeze them unbaked. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then allow extra time for them to rise before baking.
Storing leftovers: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their softness.

Why Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are a Holiday Favorite

These rolls bring the perfect combination of flavors and textures to any holiday table. With their vibrant color, sweet aroma, and festive flair, Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next holiday brunch. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature with a cup of coffee, these rolls are a must-try for anyone looking to bring a little extra joy to their holiday celebrations.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are the ultimate holiday treat, combining the perfect blend of tangy cranberries and zesty orange flavors wrapped in soft, fluffy dough. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch or a festive breakfast, they’re sure to impress family and friends. The orange glaze adds the finishing touch, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for the holiday season. Don’t be discouraged by the slightly messy prep—these rolls are worth every step and will fill your home with a delicious, welcoming aroma. Make them for your next gathering or enjoy them as a comforting holiday tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I make these rolls gluten-free?

To make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls gluten-free, substitute the regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check if the yeast you’re using is gluten-free, and follow the instructions as usual.

Can I use dried cranberries for the filling?

While fresh cranberries are ideal for the filling, you can substitute dried cranberries if necessary. Rehydrate them by soaking them in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using them in the filling to help achieve the desired texture.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these rolls in advance by assembling them the night before and letting them rise overnight in the fridge. In the morning, simply let them come to room temperature and bake them. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked rolls and allow them to thaw and rise before baking.

More Relevant Recipes

Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream: If you’re a fan of the vibrant, tangy flavor of oranges, this homemade ice cream brings the zesty orange sweetness with a creamy twist. It’s the perfect refreshing treat for summer or holiday celebrations, pairing wonderfully with the flavors of cranberry orange rolls.
Lemon Zucchini Bread: This lemon-infused bread combines the lightness of citrus with the hearty texture of zucchini. It offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a great complement to cranberry orange sweet rolls at brunch or as a stand-alone treat.
Strawberry Shortcake Bars: These sweet, layered bars bring a burst of fresh strawberries combined with a buttery, crumbly base. The delightful sweetness and fruitiness make it a fantastic dessert to serve alongside the bright flavors of cranberry orange rolls for a festive meal.