Blueberry cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the traditional cinnamon roll, adding the sweetness of blueberries to the warm, comforting flavour of cinnamon. These fluffy, homemade rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime. This guide will walk you through each step to create soft, delicious rolls that will impress any guest or satisfy any craving.
Why Make Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls?
Blueberry cinnamon rolls are the answer if you’re looking to elevate the standard cinnamon roll. Combining blueberries and cinnamon brings a unique blend of comforting and refreshing flavours. Plus, adding a berry layer makes these rolls visually appealing, with vibrant swirls of blueberry filling.
This recipe works well with fresh or frozen blueberries, making it a versatile option for year-round baking. For more ideas on incorporating berries into baked goods, check out this lemon blueberry cake recipe for a fruity, zesty treat.
Ingredients for Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls
- For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 cup warm milk (about 105°F)
- One packet of active dry yeast
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- For the Blueberry Filling:
- 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter softened
- For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp blueberry puree (optional for colour and flavour)
For a classic Southern dessert with berries, explore this blackberry dumplings recipe.
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
The dough is essential for soft, fluffy blueberry cinnamon rolls. Here’s how to make it:
- Activate the Yeast: Combine warm milk and sugar in a bowl, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
- Mix the Dough: In a giant bowl, combine the flour, salt, melted butter, and yeast. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Cover the dough in a greased bowl and let it rise warmly for 1-2 hours until it has doubled.
Tip: Use high-quality yeast to achieve a soft, fluffy dough texture.
Step 2: Making the Blueberry Filling
The blueberry filling gives these rolls their unique fruity flavour. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries break down and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
- Let the filling cool before spreading it onto the dough.
Adding a hint of lemon preserves the blueberry’s bright colour and enhances its natural sweetness. For a Southern twist, check out this guide on rhubarb crisp for another sweet and tangy dessert option.
Step 3: Assembling the Rolls
- Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the Fillings: Spread the cinnamon filling by sprinkling the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the dough. Then, evenly layer the blueberry filling.
- Roll and Cut: Roll the dough tightly from one long edge, then cut into 12 equal pieces. Arrange them in a greased baking dish.
Assembly Tips
- Roll the dough tightly to achieve well-defined swirls.
- If the blueberry filling is too liquid, strain some juice to prevent sogginess.
Step 4: Baking the Rolls
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for 20-30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
For another comforting baked dish, try this pecan bread recipe for a crunchy, Southern-inspired treat.
Step 5: Cream Cheese Icing
The cream cheese icing adds a rich, sweet finish to these rolls.
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp blueberry puree (optional)
- Instructions:
- Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the blueberry puree for a slight purple hue and extra flavour.
- Spread over the warm rolls.
Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
- Ice the Rolls: Spread the icing over the warm rolls for a glossy, sweet finish.
- Serve: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored and reheated.
For a fruity touch on the side, consider pairing these rolls with blueberry cheesecake rolls for an indulgent dessert combination.
Tips for the Perfect Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries to make the filling vibrant and flavorful.
- Refrain from overloading with filling to prevent the rolls from becoming soggy.
- For best results, bake the rolls the same day or refrigerate the unbaked rolls overnight and bake fresh the next morning.
Variations to Try
- Mixed Berry Rolls: Combine blueberries with strawberries or raspberries for a mixed berry filling.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to store blueberry cinnamon rolls?
You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I use canned blueberries?
Fresh or frozen blueberries work best for texture, but canned blueberries can be substituted in a pinch.
How do I reheat blueberry cinnamon rolls without drying them out?
Wrap them in foil and heat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes, or microwave with a damp paper towel over them.
Blueberry cinnamon rolls are an innovative twist on a beloved classic. They blend fruity sweetness with the comfort of cinnamon and cream cheese icing. Try this recipe for a crowd-pleasing treat that showcases a unique blend of flavours and textures!
