Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are a sweet and tangy twist on the classic cinnamon roll. The soft, fluffy dough is swirled with a delicious raspberry filling and topped with a bright, citrusy glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat, these rolls are easy to make and irresistibly delicious!

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg

Raspberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon milk (if needed for consistency)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Make the Filling: In a small saucepan, cook raspberries, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest. Let cool.
4. Assemble the Rolls: Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the raspberry filling evenly over the surface.
5. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, then slice into 12 rolls. Place in a greased baking dish and cover to rise for another 30 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Make the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Adjust with milk if needed.
8. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the filling for added crunch.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Replace lemon glaze with a rich cream cheese frosting.
• Berry Mix: Use a mix of raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries for a colorful twist.
• Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for extra warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, just be sure to cook them down to remove excess moisture.

How do I make the dough rise faster?

Place it in a warm oven (about 100°F/38°C) or near a warm spot in the kitchen.

What if my dough is too sticky?

Add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until manageable.

Can I make these rolls dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Avoid overfilling, and roll the dough tightly before slicing.

Can I add a crumble topping?

Absolutely! Mix butter, flour, and sugar for a crumbly streusel topping.

What’s the best way to cut the rolls cleanly?

Use dental floss or a sharp knife to slice without squishing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two baking dishes to avoid overcrowding.

Do these rolls need to be refrigerated?

Not necessary, but refrigeration extends their freshness.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are a delightful treat that balances sweet, tangy, and buttery flavors in every bite. Whether for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to be a crowd favorite. Enjoy them fresh and warm with a cup of coffee or tea!

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