Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls are a heavenly fusion of flavors and textures. The homemade dough is soft and pillowy, while the blackberry filling adds a vibrant, fruity flavor that contrasts perfectly with the warm, cinnamon-sugar swirl. Topped off with a rich cream cheese frosting, this recipe is a gourmet treat that feels like a special occasion every time you make it. Plus, the combination of sweet berries and comforting cinnamon will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Blackberry Filling:

3 ½ cups blackberries, fresh or frozen
½ cup granulated sugar
2 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
⅛ teaspoon of salt

For the Dough:

¼ cup warm water*
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one 1/4-ounce packet)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
¼ cup instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup milk, warmed in microwave for 30-40 seconds
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
1 egg
½ teaspoon salt
3-3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Brown Sugar Filling:

5 tablespoons salted butter, softened
⅔ cup brown sugar
2 ½ teaspoons cinnamon

For the Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

5 ounces cream cheese
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon corn syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla
⅛ teaspoon salt
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup blackberry filling, reserved from the blackberry filling

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Blackberry Filling:

In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside. If using frozen blackberries, the mixture may take a bit longer to thicken.

2. Make the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, warm milk, melted butter, Greek yogurt, egg, and salt.
Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the wet ingredients and mix to combine.
Gradually add in the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-8 minutes on a floured surface, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

3. Make the Cinnamon Brown Sugar Filling:

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and spreadable.

4. Assemble the Rolls:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
Spread the cinnamon brown sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
Spoon the prepared blackberry filling over the cinnamon-sugar layer, spreading it evenly, leaving a small border along the edges.
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one long edge.
Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Bake the Rolls:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking to prevent over-browning.

6. Make the Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar and continue to beat until smooth and fluffy.
Finally, stir in the reserved blackberry filling until fully incorporated.

7. Frost the Rolls:

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the blackberry cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 rolls
Preparation time: 20 minutes (excluding rise time)
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Rising time: 1.5-2 hours (including the second rise)
Total time: 3 hours (including rise and bake time)

Variations

Berry Filling: If you don’t have blackberries, try raspberries, blueberries, or a combination of mixed berries for a different flavor.
Cinnamon Swirl: For a more traditional cinnamon roll, you can omit the blackberry filling and simply roll up the dough with the cinnamon brown sugar filling.
Frosting Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or skip the frosting altogether for a less sweet option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: These rolls freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, place rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, bring it to room temperature, shape the rolls, and bake.

Can I use frozen blackberries for the filling?

Yes, frozen blackberries work perfectly for the filling. Just make sure to cook them a bit longer to allow the mixture to thicken properly.

Can I make these rolls without the cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! You can drizzle the rolls with a simple sugar glaze or skip the frosting entirely for a less indulgent option.

How can I make the dough rise faster?

If you’re short on time, you can place the dough in a warm place, like an oven with the light on, to speed up the rising process.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour, but the rolls may be denser.

How long should I let the rolls rise before baking?

The rolls should rise for about 30 minutes after assembling them and before baking. This second rise helps them become light and fluffy.

Can I freeze the rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Place them in the pan, cover them tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.

Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to mix and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

How can I make the frosting smoother?

If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk or heavy cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center of one of the rolls comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

These Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, filled with a sweet, tangy blackberry filling, a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl, and topped with a decadent blackberry cream cheese frosting. The soft, fluffy dough and vibrant flavors make these rolls a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re serving them to guests or enjoying them on a quiet morning, these rolls will quickly become a favorite!