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Cranberry Orange Sweet Rolls

These pillowy soft sweet rolls are infused with tart cranberries and zesty orange, topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy brunches.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 9 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 2/3 cup whole milk, warmed Using whole milk adds richness; you can substitute almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
  • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided This balances the sweetness and encourages yeast activation.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast Vital for a fluffy texture. Always check the expiration date!
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten Brings moisture and richness to the dough.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Use quality butter here; it enhances the flavor.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Essential for structure. You can use organic flour for better flavor.
  • 1 cup bread flour A higher protein content is ideal for the dough's chewiness.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Bakes in flavor and regulates yeast activity.
Filling Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce Fresh or canned; both work well.
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest Fresh zest brightens the rolls.
Frosting Ingredients
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened For that creamy icing texture.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Quality counts here.
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice Adds bright flavor in the frosting.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Always choose pure vanilla for the best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, and yeast. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it's foamy.
  2. Add the eggs, softened butter, remaining sugar, all-purpose flour, bread flour, and salt. Use the dough hook attachment and mix on low until combined. Increase to medium speed and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  3. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—this will take about 1-2 hours.
Assembly
  1. Once your dough has risen, punch it down, and roll it into a 10×15-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce and orange zest, then spread this filling evenly over the rolled dough.
  3. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and slice it into 9 equal rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish to rise for another hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and bake the rolls for 35-40 minutes until they're lightly golden.
  2. While they bake, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, butter, confectioners' sugar, orange juice, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Frost the rolls while still warm, letting the icing melt into the crevices.

Notes

For best results, do not skip the rising time. You can make ahead by prepping the rolls the night before and refrigerating them overnight. Soft, fluffy results are achieved by accurately measuring flour and using fresh yeast.