Irresistible Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe Perfect for Brunch

The smell of freshly baked sweet rolls with the tangy zest of orange and the sweet-tart pop of cranberries is pure heaven. It’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary morning into something memorable. I first made these cranberry orange sweet rolls for a family brunch, and they quickly became the star of the table! Honestly, they’re like sunshine on a plate—bright, cheery, and impossible to resist.

There’s something magical about the combination of cranberry and orange. The citrus adds a refreshing zing, while the cranberries bring just enough tartness to balance the sweetness. And let’s not forget the silky citrus glaze drizzled over the top—it’s the finishing touch that makes these rolls simply irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday morning or just a cozy Sunday breakfast, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.

Not only are they delicious, but they’re surprisingly easy to make. With a little patience and love, you’ll be rewarded with pillowy rolls bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—because trust me, you’ll want everyone to taste these beauties. Let’s dive into the details of how you can make these cranberry orange sweet rolls yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Brunch: These cranberry orange sweet rolls are ideal for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or even as a treat for yourself.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The pairing of tangy cranberries with bright citrus orange is an unforgettable flavor duo.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone always comes back for seconds—kids, adults, and even picky eaters love these rolls.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, with simple steps that anyone can follow.
• Customizable: You can swap out ingredients or adjust the flavor profile to suit your preferences.

These sweet rolls stand out because of their vibrant, fresh flavors. While most breakfast or brunch rolls lean heavily on cinnamon or chocolate, this recipe brings something new to the table—a burst of fruity brightness. The tender dough is enriched with orange zest, and the cranberry filling adds a jammy sweetness without being cloying. Top it all off with a luscious citrus glaze, and you’re in for a treat!

Whether you’re hosting friends or just want to spoil your family, these rolls offer a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. And the best part? They look as amazing as they taste—making them Pinterest-worthy and ideal for sharing on social media!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses wholesome, everyday ingredients that come together to create a show-stopping dish. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• For the Dough:
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 large orange (adds a bright citrus note)
• For the Filling:
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (chopped)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Juice of 1 orange
• For the Citrus Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp orange juice (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 tsp orange zest (optional for extra zing)

These ingredients are easy to find and, chances are, you already have most of them in your pantry. If fresh cranberries aren’t in season, frozen ones work perfectly. And if you need a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk and vegan butter instead.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl (for combining the dough)
• Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional but highly recommended for ease)
• Rolling pin
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Small saucepan (for making the filling)
• Whisk (for the glaze)
• Pastry brush (for spreading butter)

If you don’t have a stand mixer, don’t worry—you can knead the dough by hand. Just be prepared to put in a little extra elbow grease! For a budget-friendly option, you can use a clean wine bottle as a makeshift rolling pin. And don’t forget to grease your baking dish well—it makes removing the rolls a breeze.

Preparation Method

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, orange zest, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
5. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally. Let it cool completely.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to a 12×18-inch rectangle.
7. Spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, evenly spread the cranberry filling on top.
8. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Pinch the seam to seal and cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
9. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
11. While the rolls are baking, make the glaze. Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth.
12. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling the citrus glaze generously over the top.

And there you have it—soft, tangy, and perfectly sweet cranberry orange sweet rolls ready to be enjoyed!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t rush the rise: Letting the dough rise properly is key to achieving soft, fluffy rolls. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl in a warm spot or inside an oven with the light on.
• Roll evenly: When rolling out the dough, strive for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.
• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to go heavy on the cranberry filling, too much can cause it to leak out and make the rolls soggy.
• Use parchment paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect roll removal.
• Troubleshooting glaze: If your glaze is too thick, add a tiny splash of orange juice. If it’s too thin, mix in more powdered sugar.

Variations & Adaptations

• Dietary Adjustments: Make it dairy-free by using almond milk and vegan butter. You can also use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
• Seasonal Swaps: No cranberries? Substitute with raspberries or diced strawberries for a summer twist.
• Flavor Boost: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra texture and richness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Personal Variation: I once added a cream cheese filling before rolling, and it made the rolls extra decadent!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cranberry orange sweet rolls are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. The citrus glaze will be beautifully glossy, and the rolls will be tender and aromatic. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a refreshing glass of orange juice.

If you’re hosting brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit for a complete spread. They’re also perfect for holiday mornings when you want something special to share with loved ones.

For storage, let the rolls cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap each roll individually and store in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a freshly baked taste.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each roll is approximately 280 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used. The cranberries provide antioxidants, while the orange zest and juice offer a boost of vitamin C. If you opt for a dairy-free or low-sugar version, these rolls can fit into a variety of dietary preferences. Be mindful of potential allergens like dairy and gluten if serving to guests.

Cranberry orange sweet rolls aren’t just a treat for your taste buds—they’re a little burst of energy and joy, perfect for starting your day on a sweet note.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to brighten any morning, these irresistible cranberry orange sweet rolls are it. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I love how they bring a little sunshine to the table, no matter the season.

So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and give these a try! I’d love to hear how they turn out for you—share your experience in the comments below. And don’t forget to experiment with variations to make them your own. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling out.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just soak the dried cranberries in warm orange juice for 15 minutes to plump them up before using.

How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Grease your baking dish well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Can I freeze the rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls after slicing. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before popping them in the oven.

What if I don’t have orange zest?

If you’re out of fresh oranges, you can use bottled orange juice for the glaze and skip the zest entirely—it’ll still be delicious!

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