Prep Time: ~30–45 minutes | Rise Time: ~1–2 hours | Bake Time: ~25–30 minutes | Total Time: ~2–3 hours | Yield: ~9–12 rolls
Introduction
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are soft, fluffy rolls filled with bright cranberry and fresh orange flavor, then finished with a sweet citrus glaze. They’re the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them ideal for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or a cozy homemade treat.
Why This Dessert Is So Loved
These rolls are loved for their light, pillowy texture and vibrant flavor. Tart cranberries cut through the sweetness, while orange zest adds a fresh, aromatic lift. Warm from the oven and topped with glaze, they’re comforting and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
- Warm milk
- Granulated sugar
- Active dry yeast
- Eggs
- Unsalted butter, softened
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
For the Cranberry Orange Filling
- Fresh cranberries, finely chopped
- Brown sugar
- Orange zest
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon
For the Orange Glaze
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh orange juice
- Optional: orange zest
The Flavor Profile
These sweet rolls combine buttery, soft dough with a tart cranberry filling brightened by citrusy orange zest. The glaze adds sweetness and ties everything together with a fresh, zesty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Warm the milk until just warm to the touch. Mix with yeast and a little sugar and let sit until foamy.
Combine the remaining sugar, eggs, butter, flour, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix chopped cranberries, brown sugar, and orange zest until well combined.
3. Roll Out the Dough
Roll the risen dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cranberry-orange filling evenly over the dough.
4. Shape the Rolls
Roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into even rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
5. Second Rise
Cover and let the rolls rise again until puffy.
6. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Glaze & Serve
Whisk powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use warm, not hot, milk to activate yeast properly
- Chop cranberries finely for even filling distribution
- Allow both rises for the softest texture
- Glaze rolls while warm so it melts into the crevices
Creative Variations
- Extra Citrus: add lemon zest to the filling
- Nutty Twist: sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling
- Vanilla Glaze: add a splash of vanilla to the glaze
- Overnight Rolls: refrigerate shaped rolls and bake the next morning
Storage & Freshness
Store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. With their sweet-tart filling and glossy orange glaze, they’re a beautiful and delicious addition to any breakfast or brunch table.
