Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze

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Introduction

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are the perfect balance of fruity, sweet, and tangy, offering a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. Fluffy and tender with a hint of warmth from cinnamon, these rolls are filled with juicy raspberries that bring a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite. The tart lemon glaze drizzled on top adds a zesty contrast, making these rolls the ultimate treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re indulging in the morning or enjoying a sweet afternoon snack, they are sure to become a new favorite.

One of the things I love most about these cinnamon rolls is the irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. As they bake, the cinnamon swirls and raspberry notes create a mouthwatering fragrance that makes it impossible to resist peeking into the oven. I remember the first time I made these on a bright morning, eager to surprise my family. The fresh raspberries and cinnamon paired with the tangy lemon glaze immediately made them a hit—each bite felt like a special occasion.

The best part is how customizable these rolls are. Feel free to add more raspberries for an extra pop of color and flavor, or experiment with different fillings like a touch of orange zest to complement the lemon glaze. These raspberry cinnamon rolls are so versatile, and once you’ve perfected the base, you can make them your own every time. You’ll find yourself making them again and again—because they’re just that delicious!

Perfect For

  • Brunch gatherings
  • Special holiday breakfasts
  • Celebrations and birthdays
  • Cozy weekend mornings
  • Afternoon tea or dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fruity and Sweet: The addition of raspberries brings a fruity sweetness to the traditional cinnamon rolls.
  • Light and Fluffy: The dough is soft and pillowy, giving these rolls an irresistible texture.
  • Tangy Lemon Glaze: The zesty lemon glaze cuts through the sweetness, offering a refreshing contrast to the cinnamon rolls.
  • Versatile: Ideal for a breakfast or dessert, these rolls fit any occasion.
  • Customizable: Adjust the raspberry filling and lemon glaze to suit your preferences or try a different fruit!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 12–14 rolls
Calories per serving: Approximately 250–300 calories
Key Nutrients: Carbs: 36g, Fat: 11g, Fiber: 2g

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)

For the Raspberry Filling:

  • 1 cup raspberry jam (or fresh raspberries mashed with sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)

For the Cinnamon Sugar:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

  • Raspberries: Fresh or jam, they add a vibrant burst of flavor and color to these cinnamon rolls.
  • Cinnamon Sugar: The warm cinnamon-sugar filling brings that signature flavor that pairs beautifully with the tart raspberries.
  • Lemon Glaze: The sweet and tangy lemon glaze is the perfect way to top off the rolls, adding a fresh citrusy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Let it cool slightly (about 110°F).
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, and salt. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and stir gently.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the milk-butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the eggs and stir until the dough begins to come together.
  4. Knead the Dough: Add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, a little at a time, until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky, about 5-7 minutes of kneading.
  5. Let the Dough Rise: Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly greased bowl, and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Make the Raspberry Filling: If using fresh raspberries, mash them and mix with sugar. If using jam, you can skip this step. If you want a thicker filling, stir in cornstarch to the jam.

Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls:

  1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  2. Spread with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Spread the softened butter over the rolled dough. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the butter.
  3. Spread the Raspberry Filling: Evenly spread the raspberry filling over the cinnamon sugar.
  4. Roll and Slice: Starting at the long edge of the dough, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the roll into 12–14 equal-sized pieces.

Bake the Cinnamon Rolls:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange in a Pan: Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, allowing space between each roll. Let them rise for another 20 minutes.
  3. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Prepare the Lemon Glaze:

  1. Make the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest (optional), and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.

Serve the Cinnamon Rolls:

  1. Glaze the Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, drizzle them with the lemon glaze while they’re still warm.

How to Serve

  • Warm with Extra Glaze: Serve the rolls warm with extra glaze on the side for guests to drizzle as they please.
  • Pair with Coffee or Tea: These cinnamon rolls make a perfect addition to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
  • As a Dessert: Top with whipped cream or ice cream for a delicious dessert.
  • Brunch Buffet: Serve alongside other brunch staples like eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit for a complete meal.
  • Pack for Gifting: Wrap the rolls in wax paper or place them in a cute gift box to give as a homemade treat.

Additional Tips

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best dough consistency, use eggs and butter at room temperature.
  • Frozen vs. Fresh Raspberries: If using frozen raspberries, thaw and drain them before use to avoid a soggy filling.
  • Don’t Overproof the Dough: After shaping the rolls, be mindful not to overproof the dough during the second rise to avoid them becoming too dense.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the raspberry filling and adjust the sugar levels based on your sweetness preference.
  • Chill the Rolls Before Baking (Optional): For an even softer texture, you can refrigerate the unbaked rolls overnight and bake them the next morning.

Recipe Variations

  1. Mixed Berry Cinnamon Rolls: Use a mix of berries like strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries for a more complex flavor.
  2. Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a crunchy texture.
  3. Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of the lemon glaze, top the rolls with cream cheese frosting for a richer topping.
  4. Orange Glaze: Swap the lemon glaze for orange juice and zest for a citrusy alternative.
  5. Vegan Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives and use egg replacer to make these rolls vegan.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing Baked Rolls: Let the cinnamon rolls cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
  • Freezing Dough: You can freeze the unbaked rolls before the final rise. Wrap them tightly, freeze, and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  • Storage: Store the baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Special Equipment

  • 9×13-Inch Baking Pan: Perfect size for baking these cinnamon rolls in a way that ensures even cooking and soft rolls.
  • Electric Mixer: For effortlessly mixing dough and ensuring smooth consistency.
  • Rolling Pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
  • Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
  • Wire Rack: Helps the rolls cool evenly without becoming soggy.

FAQ

Can I Use Frozen Raspberries for the Filling?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the dough to avoid excess moisture.

What Can I Use Instead of Raspberry Jam?

You can substitute raspberry jam with other berry preserves, such as strawberry or blueberry jam. Fresh berries also work, but they may make the filling runnier.

How Do I Ensure My Dough Rises Properly?

Make sure the yeast is fresh and the liquids are warmed to about 110°F (43°C), as very hot liquids can kill the yeast.

Can I Prepare the Dough the Night Before?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Allow it to rise the next morning before baking.

How Can I Make the Rolls More Fluffy?

Be sure not to overwork the dough, and ensure it’s properly kneaded and given enough time to rise for the best texture.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are a delightful fusion of sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors. The combination of fresh raspberries, buttery cinnamon dough, and a zesty lemon glaze makes for a treat that’s irresistible at breakfast, brunch, or any time of day. With its soft, pillowy texture and burst of raspberry goodness, it’s an indulgence that feels special without being overly complicated to make.

These rolls are a perfect option for any gathering or just as a comforting homemade treat. Feel free to get creative and add a sprinkle of nuts or a swirl of extra cinnamon if you like. They’re simple yet decadent, providing a beautiful contrast between the fruity tartness of the raspberries and the sweetness of the glaze.

Bake a batch today and let the delightful scent fill your home! Don’t forget to snap a picture of your delicious creation and share it on Instagram—tag me so I can celebrate your tasty success. Happy baking!

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