If you’re craving a bakery-style treat that blends sweet, tart cherries with soft, buttery cinnamon rolls, you’re in the right place. These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are fluffy, gooey, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor. Unlike basic cinnamon rolls, this version elevates the classic with a tangy cherry twist—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique flavor: A balance of sweet cinnamon sugar and tart cherry filling.
- Homemade touch: Freshly made cherry compote instead of canned filling.
- Soft and fluffy: Perfectly risen dough baked to golden perfection.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Ingredients for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
For the Dough
- 4 cups bread flour (for a fluffy texture; substitute all-purpose if needed)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Homemade Cherry Filling
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional for extra warmth)
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour until a dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Pro Tip: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not overly wet. Avoid adding too much flour.
2. Prepare the Cherry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5–6 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool completely before spreading on dough.
3. Assemble the Rolls
- Roll out dough into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
- Spread softened butter evenly across the dough.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Spread cooled cherry filling evenly on top.
- Roll up tightly from the long side, then slice into 12 rolls.
4. Proof & Bake
- Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Add the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Expert Baking Tips
- Dough rising hack: Place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) for faster proofing.
- Slice neatly: Use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife to cut rolls cleanly.
- Prevent soggy bottoms: Line your baking dish with parchment paper.
- Fluffiest rolls: Don’t overbake—remove as soon as tops are golden.
Variations & Flavor Twists
- Chocolate Cherry Rolls: Add chocolate chips to the filling.
- Almond-Cherry Rolls: Top with almond glaze and sliced almonds.
- Mini Rolls: Roll dough thinner and slice smaller for bite-sized treats.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding hot milk (kills yeast).
- Not letting cherry filling cool (causes soggy dough).
- Overfilling (rolls may burst open).
- Skipping the second rise (results in dense rolls).
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
- Room temperature: Store covered for 2 days.
- Fridge: Lasts up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in oven at 325°F for 10 minutes, then glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these rolls with:
- A hot cup of coffee or latte.
- Vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
FAQs About Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
Q: Can I use canned cherry pie filling?
A: Yes, but homemade filling gives fresher flavor and less sweetness.
Q: Can I prepare these overnight?
A: Yes! Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let rise 30 minutes before baking.
Q: Can I make without a stand mixer?
A: Absolutely—just knead by hand for 8–10 minutes.
Q: How do I keep them soft?
A: Store in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.
Nutrition (Per Roll, Approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 24g
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and buttery flavors. Whether you bake them for a holiday brunch, weekend breakfast, or just to treat yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress.
