Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are a perfect combination of sweet, tart, and tangy flavors wrapped up in soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls. The rich cinnamon filling is complemented by a burst of raspberry sweetness, while the zesty lemon glaze ties everything together with a refreshing citrusy twist. Whether you’re looking for a decadent breakfast, a sweet treat for brunch, or a dessert to impress your guests, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to be a hit. With a soft dough and a gooey filling, each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination: The tangy raspberry filling combined with the sweet cinnamon and lemon glaze creates an irresistible flavor combination that’s unlike any other cinnamon roll.
2. Soft and Fluffy: These rolls are soft, fluffy, and melt in your mouth, thanks to a light and buttery dough that rises perfectly.
3. Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any special equipment or techniques.
4. Perfect for Brunch or Breakfast: These rolls are the perfect treat for special occasions, brunches, or even a cozy morning breakfast.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the rolls the night before and bake them in the morning, making them perfect for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon-Raspberry Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup fresh raspberries (or raspberry preserves)

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon whole milk (or as needed to adjust consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Variations

• Berry Medley: Instead of raspberries, you can use a mixture of berries like blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a berry medley filling.
• Add Nuts: If you enjoy a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling before rolling the dough.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: For an even richer glaze, you can swap the lemon glaze with a cream cheese frosting or add a layer of cream cheese filling before rolling the dough.
• Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and a flaxseed egg replacement for a vegan-friendly version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and creamy. Gently mash the raspberries with a fork if using fresh berries. If using raspberry preserves, just set it aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

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

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting at one edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the roll into 12 even pieces and place them into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. If needed, cover the rolls loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the rolls are baking, make the lemon glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Adjust the milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother dough and better texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake to ensure they don’t overcook. They should be golden brown on top and soft inside.
• Rest the Dough: Allow the dough to rest properly so it can rise and develop a soft, pillowy texture.
• Adjust the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, add less milk. For a thinner glaze, add a bit more milk.
• Freeze for Later: If you want to prepare the rolls ahead of time, freeze them before baking. After rolling and slicing, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

How to Serve

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these raspberry cinnamon rolls with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a special breakfast or brunch treat.
• With Fresh Fruit: Pair them with fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices to complement the flavors.
• As a Dessert: These rolls make an excellent dessert for a family meal or a dinner party. The sweetness and tangy glaze make them a perfect after-dinner treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover raspberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

To freeze the rolls, allow them to cool completely before wrapping each roll individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen raspberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. After kneading, place it in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before rolling out and continuing with the recipe.

3. Can I use a bread machine for the dough?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Follow your machine’s instructions, and then continue with the rest of the recipe.

4. How can I make the glaze thicker?

To make a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk or increase the powdered sugar. Keep whisking until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Can I use a different glaze flavor?

Yes, you can replace the lemon glaze with other flavors like orange glaze, vanilla glaze, or cream cheese frosting.

6. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. If in doubt, use a toothpick to check if the center is fully cooked.

7. Can I make these rolls vegan?

To make these cinnamon rolls vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use non-dairy milk, and use a flaxseed egg replacement.

8. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. After rolling it up and slicing, place the rolls on a baking sheet, freeze them, and then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of baking time.

9. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the rolls are delicious on their own without the glaze, but the lemon glaze adds a nice citrusy kick that complements the sweetness of the raspberries.

10. How should I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are the perfect indulgent treat that combines sweet cinnamon, tart raspberries, and a tangy lemon glaze. These soft, fluffy rolls are easy to make and are sure to impress at any breakfast or brunch gathering. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a make-ahead treat, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them out today for a delicious, cozy, and flavorful experience!

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