Experience the Best Cranberry Orange Rolls at Home

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Cranberry Orange Rolls are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to any breakfast table. These homemade rolls combine a soft, tender dough with a vibrant cranberry orange jam filling and a sweet orange glaze. Perfect for holiday breakfasts or special occasions, they are flavorful, gooey, and bursting with fresh citrus and tart cranberries, offering a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Preparing these rolls is not only satisfying but also ensures a warm, inviting aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist enjoying them fresh out of the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Rolls

These Cranberry Orange Rolls are loved for numerous reasons. First, they are incredibly moist and fluffy, thanks to the soft dough. Second, the sweet and tart cranberry filling complements the warm orange glaze beautifully, creating a flavor sensation. Third, they are perfect for sharing during festive gatherings or holiday breakfasts. Additionally, they can be made in advance, making them a convenient option for busy mornings. You can easily adapt them into Cranberry Orange Buns or Cranberry Orange Pastries depending on your preference. They are indeed one of the best cranberry orange rolls you’ll ever make!

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Rolls

Gather these items:

3/4 cup whole milk (heated to 95°F/35°C) (180ml)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
2 1/4 tsp instant dry yeast
4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (530g)
1/2 cup cornstarch (120g)
3/4 tsp salt
3 large eggs (room temperature)
3/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into 12 pieces and softened) (180g)
2 tsp orange zest
4 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen) (400g)
1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
1/4 cup fresh orange juice (60ml)
2 tsp orange zest
1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
3 Tbsp orange juice
2 tsp orange zest

How to Make Cranberry Orange Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Whisk together and let sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: In a separate small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt; set aside.
Step 3: Add the eggs to the milk and yeast mixture and whisk until fully combined.
Step 4: Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add the flour mixture. Then increase to medium speed and mix until the dough starts coming together, about 1 minute.
Step 5: With the mixer on medium, add softened butter pieces one at a time, followed by the orange zest. Continue mixing for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the bowl sides. If still sticky, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour until it cleans the sides.
Step 6: On a floured surface, knead the dough into a smooth ball. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 7: While the dough rises, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer gently for about 15 minutes until most cranberries burst. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 8: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into an 18×18 inch square. Spread the cooled cranberry jam evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Step 9: Starting with the edge nearest you, carefully roll the dough into a tight cylinder. Pinch the seam to seal, then cut into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
Step 10: Arrange the rolls in a lightly greased 13×9-inch baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Alternatively, refrigerate overnight.
Step 11: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Remove plastic wrap and bake rolls for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown on top.
Step 12: Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Drizzle or spread the glaze over warm rolls before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Rolls

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for holiday breakfasts or special occasions.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.
For a creamier texture, consider making Cranberry Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese filling.
Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Rolls

These rolls are delightful on their own or paired with a warm beverage. You can serve them as Cranberry Orange Breakfast Rolls alongside a fruit salad or yogurt for a complete meal. They also make a great addition to any festive brunch table.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Rolls

To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Rolls

What is a cranberry orange roll?

A cranberry orange roll is a sweet roll filled with a mixture of cranberries and orange, typically baked until golden brown and topped with a sweet glaze. They are perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Can I make cranberry orange rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just let it rise, bake, and enjoy fresh rolls without the wait!

How do I avoid common mistakes with cranberry orange rolls?

To avoid dense rolls, ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly. Also, avoid over-kneading the dough, which can make it tough. Follow the recipe closely for the best results.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Rolls You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with variations like adding cinnamon for a twist, using different citrus fruits for a unique flavor, or incorporating nuts for added crunch. You can also create Cranberry Orange Cinnamon Rolls by adding cinnamon sugar to the filling. Each variation maintains the essence of these delicious rolls while adding a personal touch!

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in other baked goods, you might enjoy Orange Black Marble Bread or Salted Caramel Cookies. For tips on baking techniques, visit our about page.