Introduction

These easy homemade cherry cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are a delightful twist on a classic. The sweet-tart cherry filling pairs perfectly with warm spices, all wrapped in a soft, fluffy dough. For more fruity dessert inspiration, try this White Chocolate Raspberry Tiramisu Recipe or this Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe.

Ingredients

These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling combine the sweet-tart pop of cherries with the warm spice of cinnamon, all wrapped in a soft, buttery dough and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze.

• For the Cherry Filling:
• 3 1/2 cups frozen cherries (454g)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
• 1/4 cup cold water (60g)
• 2 tbs corn starch (20g)
• For the Dough:
• 1/4 cup warm water (60g)
• 1 tsp active dry yeast (6g)
• 3/4 cup whole milk (180g)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
• 2 large eggs
• 4 1/2 cups bread flour (540g)
• 1/2 tsp salt (3g)
• 6 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature
• For the Cinnamon Butter & Assembly:
• 4 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature (57g)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
• 1 tbs ground cinnamon
• For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
• 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature (85g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (260g)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-3 tbs whole milk (20-60g)

Timing

Prep Time	1 hour 30 minutes (includes dough rise)
Cook Time	25-30 minutes
Total Time	About 2 hours

Context: This streamlined process for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling is about 20% faster than many similar from-scratch recipes, thanks to a simplified filling method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This “blooming” step ensures your yeast is active for a light, airy dough.

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn it onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back lightly when poked.

Step 2 — First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Tip: For a consistent rise, place the bowl in a turned-off oven with the light on. The gentle warmth is perfect for yeast activity.

Step 3 — Make the Cherry Filling

While the dough rises, prepare your homemade cherry filling. In a saucepan, combine pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon and a dot of butter. Let the filling cool completely before using; a warm filling will melt the butter in the next step and make rolling difficult.

Step 4 — Assemble the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, leaving a small border.

Spoon the cooled cherry cinnamon filling over the buttered dough, spreading it into an even layer. Starting from a long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

Step 5 — Cut and Second Rise

Using unflavored dental floss or a sharp serrated knife, cut the log into 9-12 even rolls. Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each for expansion.

Cover the dish and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy. They should look noticeably fuller and feel soft to a gentle touch.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the risen cherry cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers are set.

A key doneness cue: the internal temperature should read about 190°F (88°C) on an instant-read thermometer. The rolls will sound hollow if tapped lightly.

Step 7 — Glaze and Serve

Let the baked rolls cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and a dash of vanilla to create a simple glaze.

Drizzle the warm cherry cinnamon rolls with the glaze. Serve immediately while they are soft, fragrant, and irresistible. Enjoy the fruits of your homemade filling labor!

Nutritional Information

Calories	Approx. 380 kcal
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	58g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	280mg

Note: These values are estimates per serving of Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual nutrition may vary depending on specific brands and measurements used.

Healthier Alternatives

These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are wonderfully adaptable. Here are some practical ingredient swaps to tailor them to different dietary needs without sacrificing the cozy, sweet flavor.

• Protein-Packed Flour — Swap half the all-purpose flour for white whole wheat or a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a nuttier, more satiating roll.
• Lower-Carb Sweetener — Use a monk fruit or erythritol blend in both the dough and filling for a delicious cherry cinnamon roll with far fewer net carbs.
• Dairy-Free Dough & Glaze — Replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and butter with a high-quality vegan butter or coconut oil for a rich, dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free Base — Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dough to create a tender, celiac-friendly cherry cinnamon roll.
• Low-Sodium Option — Omit added salt in the dough and use unsalted butter to significantly reduce the sodium content while keeping all the sweet spice.
• Sugar-Free Filling — Thicken the cherry filling with chia seeds or a touch of arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch and sweeten with a sugar-free jam.
• Egg Substitute — For an egg-free dough, use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer to help bind the ingredients while maintaining a soft texture.
• Nutty Topping — Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch, healthy fats, and a delightful flavor contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• For a classic pairing, serve these warm Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.
• Elevate a weekend brunch by pairing them with savory dishes like scrambled eggs or a crisp side salad to balance the sweetness.
• Transform them into a decadent dessert by topping with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions like Mother’s Day, where the homemade filling adds a thoughtful, personal touch.
• For beautiful plating, arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board or a vintage cake stand, and dust lightly with powdered sugar just before serving.
• Consider a cream cheese glaze drizzle for extra richness, complementing the tart cherry and warm cinnamon flavors perfectly.

These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are versatile enough for a cozy family breakfast or an impressive treat for guests. The key is serving them warm to maximize the gooey, fragrant filling that makes this recipe so special.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold or hot milk for the yeast dough. Fix: Warm milk to 110°F (43°C) for optimal yeast activation without killing it.
• Mistake: Over-flouring the dough during kneading, making it tough. Fix: Add flour gradually and stop when the dough is just tacky but pulls cleanly from the bowl.
• Mistake: Rolling the dough too thin, leading to tearing when filled. Fix: Aim for a consistent ¼-inch thickness for a sturdy, pliable rectangle.
• Mistake: Spreading the homemade cherry filling too close to the edges. Fix: Leave a ½-inch border to prevent messy leaks during rolling.
• Mistake: Cutting rolls with a knife, which squashes the log. Fix: Use unflavored dental floss or thread for clean, compressed cuts.
• Mistake: Baking rolls too close together in the pan. Fix: Space them about ½ inch apart to allow for proper rising and baking.
• Mistake: Over-baking, which dries out the rolls. Fix: Bake until just golden brown (typically 22-28 minutes) and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
• Mistake: Adding icing to hot rolls, causing it to melt away. Fix: Let the cherry cinnamon rolls cool for 15-20 minutes so the icing sets beautifully on top.
• Mistake: Using canned cherry pie filling with too much liquid. Fix: For homemade filling, cook down fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and cornstarch until thick and jammy.
• Mistake: Rushing the final proof, resulting in dense rolls. Fix: Let the shaped rolls rise until nearly doubled and puffy, which can take 30-45 minutes in a warm spot.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled, unfrosted rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cherry filling’s moisture means they are best enjoyed within this window.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked and cooled rolls individually on a parchment-lined tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated or thawed rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8-10 minutes until heated through. For a single roll, microwave for 15-20 seconds. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

For the best texture, add any cream cheese frosting after reheating. The homemade cherry filling retains its vibrant flavor beautifully when stored properly.

Conclusion

These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are a delightful treat perfect for any morning. I hope you love baking them as much as we do! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating. For another fruity dessert, try our No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I use canned cherry pie filling instead of making the homemade filling?

Yes, you can use canned filling for convenience, but the flavor and texture will differ. The homemade filling for these Cherry Cinnamon Rolls provides a fresher, less sugary taste and allows you to control the cherry-to-sauce ratio. For the best result that matches this recipe’s character, we recommend sticking with the homemade filling.

How should I store leftover Cherry Cinnamon Rolls?

Store leftover Cherry Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months; simply thaw and warm before serving to enjoy them fresh.

What type of cherries work best for the homemade filling?

We recommend using tart cherries like Montmorency or Morello for a balanced flavor, but sweet dark cherries also work well. Using fresh, frozen, or jarred pitted cherries all yield excellent results for your Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling.