Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of sweet, fruity, and spicy flavors wrapped in a soft, fluffy dough. These cinnamon rolls are filled with a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture, with the addition of fresh blueberries that add a burst of flavor in every bite. The rolls are topped with a creamy glaze that complements the cinnamon and blueberry combination perfectly. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these blueberry cinnamon rolls will become your new favorite treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination: The sweet blueberries paired with the warm, comforting cinnamon filling create a one-of-a-kind flavor combination.
2. Soft and Fluffy: These rolls are incredibly soft and light, making each bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
3. Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert: Whether served for a cozy breakfast or as a sweet treat after dinner, these cinnamon rolls are versatile enough for any occasion.
4. Made from Scratch: The dough is homemade, giving these rolls a fresh, homemade taste that’s far superior to store-bought alternatives.
5. Easy to Make: While the process of making cinnamon rolls can seem intimidating, this recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any advanced baking skills.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 and 1/2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

• Berry Blend: Add a mix of berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a different fruity twist.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cinnamon filling for an added crunch.
• Vegan Version: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter to make these rolls vegan-friendly.
• Cream Cheese Icing: Swap the glaze for a cream cheese frosting for a richer topping that adds extra tang and creaminess.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and let it cool to about 110°F (43°C). Once cooled, sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the milk-yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 and 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 12×18 inches on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.

Step 6: Add the Blueberries

Evenly distribute the fresh blueberries over the cinnamon-sugar filling, pressing them gently into the dough.

Step 7: Roll and Slice

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 8: Arrange and Bake

Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they’re close together but not touching. Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy them fresh and warm for the best experience.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overfill the Rolls: When adding the blueberries, be careful not to overstuff them, as it can make them harder to roll up and can result in excess juice leaking out during baking.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother dough texture.
• Evenly Spread the Filling: Be sure to spread the cinnamon-sugar butter evenly across the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Fresh Blueberries: If you’re using frozen blueberries, ensure they’re well-drained to prevent excess moisture from affecting the dough.
• Let the Dough Rise: Allow enough time for the dough to rise properly. If it doesn’t rise enough, the rolls may be dense rather than light and fluffy.

How to Serve

• With Coffee or Tea: These blueberry cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch when paired with your favorite hot beverage.
• For Dessert: Serve these rolls as a sweet treat after a meal or at your next gathering.
• With Fresh Cream: Top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more decadent dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.

Freezing

To freeze the rolls, let them cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the rolls.

2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before. After assembling the rolls, cover and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking in the morning.

3. Can I make these with a bread machine?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dough preparation, then proceed with the recipe after the dough has risen.

4. Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes, you can substitute blueberries with other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries, though you may need to adjust the baking time for different fruit types.

5. How can I prevent the rolls from becoming too soggy?

Be sure to drain any excess moisture from the blueberries before adding them to the filling, and don’t overfill the rolls with berries.

6. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls after they’ve been assembled. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then let them rise before baking.

7. How long do these rolls last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these rolls can last for up to 3-4 days at room temperature or up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

8. Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes, you can use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk to make a vegan version of these rolls.

9. Can I add nuts to these rolls?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts would add a great crunch and flavor to these rolls. Add them along with the blueberries in the filling.

10. What type of yeast should I use?

Active dry yeast works best for this recipe, but you can also use instant yeast if that’s what you have. Just follow the package instructions for either type.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious, cozy dessert or breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and topped with a sweet glaze that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them as a family breakfast or sharing them with friends at a brunch, these blueberry cinnamon rolls will become a staple in your fall or holiday baking repertoire.

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