Some recipes are more than just food – they’re memories wrapped in warmth and sweetness. These raspberry cinnamon rolls emerged from a lazy Sunday morning experiment, born from a desire to transform the classic cinnamon roll into something extraordinary. The first time I pulled these from the oven, the kitchen filled with an aroma that was both familiar and excitingly new – the warm, comforting scent of cinnamon dancing with the bright, fresh notes of raspberries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique twist on classic cinnamon rolls
- Bursting with fresh raspberry flavor
- Perfect for special breakfasts
- Impressive yet approachable
- Make-ahead friendly
- Crowd-pleasing dessert
- Beautiful presentation
Recipe Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1-2 hours
- Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 2-3 hours
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per roll
Ingredients & Equipment
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup raspberry jam
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Fresh raspberries for garnish
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Rolling pin
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Plastic wrap
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms (about 8-10 minutes). - First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size. - Prepare the Filling
Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Gently mash fresh raspberries in a separate bowl. - Roll Out the Dough
Punch down dough and roll out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 18×12 inches). - Add the Filling
Spread butter-cinnamon mixture evenly over dough. Dollop raspberry jam and mashed raspberries across the surface. - Roll and Cut
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Cut into 12 even rolls using dental floss or a sharp knife. - Second Rise
Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch pan. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy. - Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. - Frost and Serve
While warm, top with cream cheese frosting. Garnish with fresh raspberries.
Expert Tips
- Dough Temperature: Use warm (not hot) milk to activate yeast without killing it.
- Raspberry Distribution: Gently fold raspberries to avoid completely mashing them.
- Rising Environment: Use a warm, draft-free area for best dough rise.
Substitutions and Variations
- Flour Alternatives:
- Whole wheat flour
- Gluten-free flour blend
- Bread flour for chewier texture
- Fruit Variations:
- Strawberries
- Mixed berries
- Blueberries
- Frosting Options:
- Vanilla glaze
- Lemon cream cheese frosting
- Dairy-free alternatives
Troubleshooting Guide
- Dough Not Rising:
- Check yeast freshness
- Ensure warm (not hot) environment
- Use fresh, active yeast
- Dry Rolls:
- Don’t overbake
- Cover with foil if browning too quickly
- Check oven temperature
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Room Temperature: 2 days in airtight container
- Refrigeration: Up to 5 days
- Freezing:
- Unbaked rolls: Freeze before second rise
- Baked rolls: Freeze up to 1 month
- Reheating: Warm at 300°F for 10 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these the night before?
A: Yes! Prepare, refrigerate, then bake in the morning.
Q: How do I know when they’re done?
A: Golden brown, internal temperature of 190°F.
Q: Can I use frozen raspberries?
A: Thaw and drain well to prevent excess moisture.
Q: Are these kid-friendly?
A: Kids love helping make and eating these rolls!
Final Thoughts
These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls are more than a breakfast – they’re a celebration of flavor, a moment of pure joy captured in every soft, fruity bite.
Bake, share, and savor!