Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls baking in the oven, and when you add a burst of fresh blueberries into the mix, it takes these classic rolls to a whole new level. These Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough, warm cinnamon filling, and sweet blueberries, all topped off with a creamy, tangy frosting. Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch, holiday breakfast, or a special treat, these rolls will become a favorite.

The dough is perfectly soft, and each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness from the blueberries and brown sugar, with the comforting warmth of cinnamon. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, every bite is a delicious indulgence. If you love cinnamon rolls and blueberries, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

What makes these rolls even better is how easy they are to make. While there’s a bit of rising time required, the results are absolutely worth it. The light, fluffy texture of the dough combined with the juicy blueberries and creamy frosting creates a breakfast or dessert that’s sure to impress. Get ready for a cozy treat that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Combination of Flavors

These cinnamon rolls combine the sweet warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar with the burst of fresh blueberries, creating a flavor combination that is both comforting and exciting.

2. Soft and Fluffy Dough

The dough for these rolls is soft and pillowy, with a tender texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth. It’s the perfect base for the sweet filling.

3. Easy to Make

While there’s a bit of rising time required, this recipe is simple to follow. You can easily prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, making it a great option for a breakfast treat.

4. Creamy Frosting

The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that perfectly complements the sweet and spiced filling. It’s a game-changer and makes these rolls extra indulgent.

5. Versatile

These blueberry cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or even a sweet afternoon snack. They’re sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

1. Use Frozen Blueberries

If fresh blueberries are out of season, feel free to use frozen blueberries. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling.

2. Add Lemon Zest

For a tangy twist, add some lemon zest to the filling or frosting. The citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the blueberries.

3. Make it Nutty

Add some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the filling for a crunchy contrast to the soft dough and juicy blueberries.

4. Use a Different Frosting

If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, try a simple vanilla glaze or a maple glaze for a different flavor.

5. Vegan Option

For a vegan version, substitute the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, dairy-free butter, and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. In a separate large bowl, mix the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture and 4 cups of flour, and stir until the dough starts to come together. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the blueberry mixture on top.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Rolls

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them into a greased baking pan.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they have puffed up.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, make the frosting by beating the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

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

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) when activating the yeast. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising.
2. Let the Dough Rise Properly: Give the dough enough time to rise. A warm environment will help it rise faster. Don’t rush this step.
3. Roll the Dough Evenly: Try to roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform cinnamon rolls.
4. Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries work best for this recipe, as they won’t release too much liquid. If using frozen, ensure they are well-drained.
5. Let the Rolls Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting into the rolls.

How to Serve

These Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven, with a generous drizzle of cream cheese frosting. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For an extra treat, serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep them fresh, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

Freezing

To freeze the rolls, allow them to cool completely after baking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave them for 1-2 minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat the rolls, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Reheat the frosting separately if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the filling to prevent excess liquid.

2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before, assemble the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight. Let them rise for 30 minutes before baking the next day.

3. Can I make these rolls without the frosting?

Yes, the rolls are delicious on their own, but the cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy flavor that elevates the overall taste.

4. Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes, substitute the milk with almond milk, use dairy-free butter, and swap the cream cheese frosting for a dairy-free alternative.

5. How can I make the rolls fluffier?

Ensure that the dough is well-kneaded and given enough time to rise. You can also use a stand mixer to help with kneading if you prefer.

6. Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes, you can substitute the blueberries with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar content as needed based on the fruit’s sweetness.

7. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the surface?

Lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin to prevent the dough from sticking as you roll it out.

8. How long should I let the dough rise?

The dough should rise for about 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size. If the room is cold, it may take longer.

9. Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for making dough.

10. Can I frost the rolls before baking?

No, it’s best to frost the rolls after they’re baked to avoid the frosting melting into the rolls during the baking process.

Conclusion

These Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with a delicious cinnamon filling and juicy blueberries wrapped inside soft, fluffy dough. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, they make for an irresistible breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a treat, this recipe will soon become a family favorite!

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