Name: Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup milk; 4 tablespoons salted butter; 1 packet rapid rise (or instant) yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons); 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup white sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 large egg; 1/3 cup butter, room temperature; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons orange zest; 2 cups cranberries; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 orange, zested and juiced; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon clove; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon milk; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 1/2 tablespoon orange zest

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 28 reviews

If you’re craving something that perfectly balances bright citrus with the sweet tartness of cranberries, this Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These rolls are not just your ordinary breakfast treat — they boast a tender, fluffy dough infused with zesty orange, layered with luscious cranberry filling, and topped with a smooth, fragrant orange glaze that makes every bite a joyful experience. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a special holiday morning, these sweet rolls bring a festive flair and cozy warmth you’ll want to share again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a thick lump of dough resting on a wooden board dusted with white flour, showing a slightly rough texture and soft folds. Behind the dough, there is a large wooden rolling pin, also dusted lightly with flour, and two small white bowls: one with pale yellow butter and the other with a deep red jam, both placed on a white marbled surface. The background has a soft light gray brick wall, adding a warm kitchen feel to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the creamy butter that enriches the dough to the fresh cranberries that add a burst of tartness, these simple pantry staples come together to make something truly special.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps activate the yeast for fluffy rolls.
Salted butter: Provides richness and keeps the dough tender and flavorful.
Rapid rise yeast: A quick-acting yeast that makes the dough rise beautifully within a short time.
Flour: The base of the dough, giving structure and chewiness.
White sugar: Sweetens the dough just right and aids in yeast activation.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Orange zest: Injects fresh citrus aroma and flavor into the dough and fillings.
Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
Butter (for filling): Makes the orange filling luxuriously creamy and soft.
Granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the orange filling, offsetting the tartness of cranberries.
Cranberries: The star of the show, bringing tartness and vibrant color to the filling.
Additional sugar (for cranberry filling): Balances the natural tartness of cranberries.
Orange juice: Adds fresh citrus tanginess to the cranberry filling and glaze.
Warm spices (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg): Add warmth and complexity to the cranberry filling.
Powdered sugar: Forms the base of a silky, sweet orange glaze that ties everything together.
Vanilla extract: Adds a smooth, comforting note to the glaze.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming the milk gently until it’s just warm to the touch. Melt the butter and whisk it together with the milk. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and the bright orange zest, then sprinkle your yeast over the top. Pour in the milk-butter mixture and add the egg, stirring everything until it forms a soft, slightly sticky dough. Knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, which usually takes about an hour.

Step 2: Make the Orange Filling

While the dough is rising, blend together your softened butter, sugar, and fresh orange zest. This mixture will spread easily over the dough, bringing a creamy citrus punch that pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries later on.

Step 3: Cook the Cranberry Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and warming spices – cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. Let the mixture simmer until the cranberries burst and the filling becomes thick and jammy, about 10 minutes. This vibrant cranberry filling adds a luscious burst of color and flavor inside each roll.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen nicely, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the orange butter mixture evenly across the dough, then spoon on the cranberry filling, distributing it as evenly as possible. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into even rounds. Place these rolls in a greased baking pan, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffed and airy.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for about 25 to 30 minutes. Watch for that glorious golden brown color on top and the irresistible scent filling your kitchen. When they’re done, remove them and let them cool slightly before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare and Drizzle the Orange Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, melted butter, orange juice, zest, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until silky smooth. Drizzle generously over the warm rolls — the glaze melts slightly into every nook and cranny, making these sweet rolls utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish filled with six soft rolls arranged closely in two rows, each roll having a light golden brown outside and a thick swirl of bright red, slightly chunky fruit filling inside. The rolls have a smooth, slightly fluffy texture with some parts showing a pale cream color where the dough is lighter. In the background, there is a small white bowl filled with dark red berries, and some halved oranges with bright orange skin and juicy flesh, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop, consider sprinkling a few extra fresh orange zest strands or whole dried cranberries on top of the glaze. Chopped pistachios or a light dusting of cinnamon can also add texture and color that makes these sweet rolls look as spectacular as they taste.

Side Dishes

Serve your cranberry orange sweet rolls alongside a cup of hot coffee or a spiced chai tea for the perfect cozy pairing. Fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream also complements their fruity sweetness beautifully, turning your snack into a full-on celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining guests, stack your rolls on a decorative tiered cake stand or serve them warm in a pretty basket lined with a colorful cloth napkin. Wrapping individual rolls with a little ribbon can transform these treats into charming edible gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe makes great leftovers! Store cooled rolls in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps keep them soft and fresh without drying out.

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled rolls into a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw rolls overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before glazing.

Reheating

Warm your rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Then, add a fresh drizzle of that vibrant orange glaze to bring back the fresh, gooey magic.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well for this recipe. Just thaw them slightly before cooking the filling so they release their juices and blend nicely with the sugar and spices.

Is there a way to make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, roll it out, add fillings, and proceed with the recipe. This makes for an easy morning bake.

Can I substitute orange zest with orange extract?

You can, but fresh orange zest provides essential oils and vibrant flavor that orange extract can’t fully replicate. Using zest truly elevates the brightness of the rolls.

Are these rolls suitable for freezing after baking?

Definitely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the rolls for future enjoyment. Just be sure to thaw and reheat gently with glaze added after warming.

Can I add nuts to the filling?

For sure! Chopped pecans or walnuts mixed into the cranberry filling add wonderful crunch and complement the tart fruit beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe a whirl because it’s the kind of baked good that makes mornings feel festive and special. The bright orange notes paired with tart cranberries wrapped in buttery, tender dough is a combination that will brighten your kitchen and your mood. Whether it’s for a holiday breakfast or a weekend treat, these rolls are bound to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.