If you love waking up to the inviting aroma of fresh-baked treats, this Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite morning ritual. These rolls are a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy cranberries woven with bright, zesty orange flavor in soft, pillowy dough. Each bite bursts with vibrant seasonal notes, making them ideal for holiday breakfasts, brunches, or anytime you want a little homemade indulgence that feels both fresh and comforting. Trust me, once you try this Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe, you’ll be sharing it with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients is half the joy of making these sweet rolls. Each item plays an essential role—from enriching the dough’s texture to building layers of flavor that dance on your tongue.
- 1 cup milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast and creates a soft, tender dough.
- 4 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps keep the dough moist.
- 1 packet rapid rise yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): This gets your dough beautifully fluffy in less time.
- 4 cups flour (divided): Provides structure and chewiness for your rolls.
- 1/3 cup white sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Brightens the dough with fresh citrus aroma.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and helps bind ingredients.
- 1/3 cup butter, room temperature: For the orange filling, to make it creamy and flavorful.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the orange filling perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons orange zest: Amplifies the citrus punch in the filling.
- 2 cups cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these bring tartness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the cranberry filling, balancing the berry’s tart bite.
- 1 orange, zested and juiced: Gives depth and brightness to the cranberry filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warm spice complexity to the cranberry mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon clove: A hint of clove adds festive depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Finishing spice note for cozy flavors.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Essential for the smooth, sweet glaze topping.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds a velvety background note to the glaze.
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted: Incorporated in the glaze for richness.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice: Infuses the glaze with fresh, zesty flavor.
- 1/2 tablespoon orange zest: A finishing touch that ties the glaze back to the rolls.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
Start by combining the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and warming spices in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring everything to a boil while stirring frequently so those cranberries burst open and release their bright juices. Once boiling, reduce to a gentle simmer and let the filling thicken for about 10 to 15 minutes. This luscious, tangy mixture will be the star fruit compote inside your rolls, perfectly balancing sweet and tart flavors.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Next, melt your butter and mix it with warm milk—just warm enough to comfortably hold your finger in, but not hot enough to kill the yeast. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it bloom for a couple of minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Pour in the milk and butter mixture, add the egg, then beat gently until combined. Stir in one tablespoon of orange zest for that subtle citrus lift in every bite. Switch to the dough hook and gradually incorporate the remaining flour, kneading for about 5 minutes until your dough is smooth, elastic, and ready to rise.
Step 3: Prepare the Orange Filling
While the dough rests, whip up the orange filling by blending softened butter, granulated sugar, and two tablespoons of orange zest until creamy and fragrant. This spread will infuse that bright, buttery burst of orange flavor when rolled inside, creating moist, joyful layers.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle roughly 12 by 18 inches. Spread your orange filling evenly over the surface, and then dollop the cooled cranberry compote on top, leaving some space around the edges to avoid overflow. Roll the dough into a tight log, pinch the seam firmly to seal it, ensuring those beautiful layers won’t separate in the oven.
Step 5: Cut and Rise
Slice the log into approximately twelve 1 1/2-inch thick rolls. Place them snugly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with a clean towel and set in a warm spot for about an hour until they’ve puffed up nicely, making them light and airy once baked.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the risen rolls for 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. The aroma filling your kitchen will undoubtedly amp up your anticipation!
Step 7: Make the Glaze and Glaze the Rolls
Whip together melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until you get a smooth, glossy glaze. Drizzle this heavenly glaze over the warm rolls—this step is pure magic, adding sweet brightness and a silky finish that pulls every flavor together beautifully.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming presentation and an extra burst of texture, sprinkle freshly chopped pistachios or slivered almonds on top of the glazed rolls. You can also add a few fresh cranberries or a thin twist of orange peel as an edible garnish that invites guests to dig in.
Side Dishes
These sweet rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea. For brunch, serve alongside creamy scrambled eggs or a fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Make a festive centerpiece by arranging the rolls on a rustic wooden board surrounded by orange slices and a scattering of fresh cranberries. Alternatively, place individual rolls in pretty cupcake liners for a grab-and-go treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and flavorful. If your kitchen is warm, a cool spot or the refrigerator will extend their freshness.
Freezing
The Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, ready to thaw for an instant treat whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked softness, reheat rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individually in 15-second bursts until warm. For an extra touch, add a drizzle of leftover glaze after warming.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well and are convenient if fresh aren’t in season. Just thaw slightly before cooking so they blend easily into the filling.
Do I need to use instant yeast or can I substitute active dry yeast?
Instant yeast is recommended because it activates faster and simplifies the process, but you can use active dry yeast by proofing it in warm milk for 5-10 minutes before mixing it into the dough.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the milk for your favorite plant-based milk and use dairy-free butter substitutes. The rolls will still be delicious and moist with those bright cranberry and orange flavors.
What if I want to add nuts to the filling?
Chopped pecans or walnuts can be folded into the cranberry filling or sprinkled on top before baking to add crunch and a lovely nutty flavor.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe combines the joy of baking with vibrant flavors that stun the senses and warm the heart. Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a special occasion, these rolls bring a cheerful, homemade touch to your table. Go ahead and make a batch—you’ll wonder how you ever started your day without them!
Print
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls combine a soft, fluffy dough infused with zesty orange flavor and a luscious cranberry filling. Topped with a sweet orange glaze, these rolls are perfect for a festive breakfast or a delightful dessert treat.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 packet rapid rise (or instant) yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 4 cups flour (divided)
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 large egg
Orange Filling
- 1/3 cup butter, room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
Cranberry Filling
- 2 cups cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon clove
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Orange Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/2 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Filling: Combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest and juice, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently to allow the cranberries to burst (about 3-5 minutes). Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Make the Dough: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the milk and heat for 15-30 seconds until warm but not hot. Stir in the yeast and let it stand for 1-2 minutes to activate. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, and salt. Add the milk mixture and egg, then beat with a paddle attachment until combined. Add the orange zest and mix. Switch to the dough hook and gradually add the remaining 1 cup flour. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Orange Filling: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and orange zest, mixing well until smooth.
- Assemble the Rolls: Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread the orange filling evenly over the dough surface. Spoon the cooled cranberry filling on top, leaving some space around the edges. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut and Rise: Slice the rolled dough into 1 1/2-inch thick rolls, yielding about 12 pieces. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with a towel and let them rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-30 minutes, until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Make the Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the orange glaze over the warm rolls. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute fresh cranberries with frozen ones—just thaw before cooking.
- For a dairy-free version, replace butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- If you don’t have orange zest, lemon zest can be a good substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Ensure the milk mixture is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Reheat gently before serving to restore softness.
