Introduction
Indulge in the sweet, fluffy goodness of Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls! These delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. With a tender dough filled with tangy raspberry preserves and a luscious cream cheese filling, these rolls are topped off with a sweet glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these sweet rolls will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
Now, let me tell you why these sweet rolls hold a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made them; it was a rainy Saturday morning, and I just wanted something comforting to enjoy with my coffee. I stumbled upon this recipe and decided to give it a go. Honestly, I was a bit nervous—baking can be intimidating! But as I mixed the dough and watched it rise, my confidence grew.
When they finally came out of the oven, the smell was heavenly! I couldn’t wait to dig in. As I took that first warm bite, it reminded me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she’d often whip up sweet treats for us. I could almost hear her cheerful voice encouraging me to give it a try, no matter how messy the kitchen got.
So, whenever I make these rolls, I think of those sweet memories. They’ve become a favorite in our household, perfect for lazy Sundays or even to surprise friends who drop by. So, don’t worry if you’re new to baking—just roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet aroma fill your home. You’ve got this!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are several reasons to fall in love with Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of raspberry and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fit any meal!
- Soft and Fluffy: The dough is light and airy, making each roll a cloud-like delight.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip these up!
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the rolls in advance and bake them fresh in the morning for a warm treat.
- Customizable Filling: Swap out raspberry preserves for your favorite fruit jam or even fresh fruit.
- Impressive Presentation: These rolls look beautiful when served, making them a showstopper for gatherings.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love both helping to make these rolls and eating them!
- Perfect for Leftovers: These rolls are delicious the next day, warmed up with a drizzle of glaze.
- Great for Gifting: Wrap them up for friends and family as a delicious homemade gift.
Preparation Time and Cook Time
- Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Calories per roll: Approximately 300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Fiber: 1g, Fat: 10g, Carbohydrates: 46g, Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup raspberry preserves
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
AND FOR the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Ingredient Highlights
- Raspberry Preserves: Adds a sweet and tart flavor that pairs perfectly with cream cheese.
- Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- Homemade Dough: Making your dough from scratch ensures freshness and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
Prepare the Dough
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine warmed milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir in yeast and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add Eggs and Flour: Beat in the eggs and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
FOR the Filling
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Rolls
- Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough, then dollop raspberry preserves on top and spread it gently.
- You have to Roll and Cut: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Second Rise and Bake
- Prepare Baking Dish: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cut side up. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Glaze the Rolls
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
How to Serve
Here are some fun serving ideas for your Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
- Serve Warm: These rolls are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven!
- Breakfast Treat: Pair with fresh fruit and coffee for a delightful breakfast spread.
- Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange on a large platter for a beautiful brunch display.
- Add Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh raspberries or other berries for an extra touch.
- Make a Dessert Board: Create a dessert board with these rolls, cookies, and pastries for a festive gathering.
- Gift in a Box: Pack some rolls in a decorative box to share with friends and family.
- Enjoy with Tea: Serve alongside your favorite tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Microwave for Warmth: Reheat leftover rolls in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked feel again.
- Use Leftover Glaze: Keep any extra glaze for drizzling over pancakes or waffles!
- Creative Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped nuts or coconut for added texture and flavor.
Additional Tips
Maximize your enjoyment of Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls with these helpful tips:
- Prep Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight for a quicker bake in the morning.
- Use Frozen Berries: If fresh raspberries are out of season, frozen ones work well too!
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end of baking to prevent them from drying out.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try using different fruit preserves like blueberry or strawberry for variety.
- Brush with Butter: For an extra rich flavor, brush melted butter over the tops before baking.
- Add Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for added warmth.
- Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze is a game-changer, adding a sweet finish that complements the rolls beautifully.
- Use a Pizza Cutter: A pizza cutter works well for slicing the dough into rolls.
- Check for Doneness: The rolls should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Recipe Variations
Consider these creative variations for your Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
- Lemon Zest Addition: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a zesty twist.
- Nutty Rolls: Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the filling for crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for a decadent touch.
- Swirl Different Jams: Mix in other flavors of jam with the raspberry for a unique blend.
- Cinnamon Rolls: Transform the filling into a cinnamon-sugar mix instead of fruit for classic cinnamon rolls.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the dairy with plant-based milk, cream cheese, and butter for a vegan version.
- Mini Rolls: Make mini versions for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.
- Use a Different Cheese: Swap cream cheese for mascarpone for a different flavor profile.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Incorporate fresh raspberries into the filling for a burst of fruitiness.
- Frosted Version: Top with a cream cheese frosting instead of a glaze for an even richer experience.
Freezing and Storage
Ensure proper storage to maintain the quality of your Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
- Storage: Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: If you prefer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Unfrosted rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen rolls at room temperature before reheating and glazing.
Special Equipment
You may need these kitchen tools to create your Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the dough and filling.
- Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough.
- Baking Dish: To bake the rolls.
- Plastic Wrap: For covering the dough while it rises.
- Whisk: For mixing the glaze ingredients.
- Spatula: For spreading the filling.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the rolls after baking.
FAQ Section
Here are answers to common questions about Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls:
- Can I use a different type of fruit preserve?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite preserves or jams. - How long can I store the rolls?
They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for about a week. - Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, unfrosted rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well. - What if I can’t find raspberry preserves?
You can use fresh raspberries mixed with a little sugar or any other fruit jam you like. - Can I make these rolls dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based alternatives for milk, butter, and cream cheese.
Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls
- Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup raspberry preserves
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine warmed milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir in yeast and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add Eggs and Flour: Beat in the eggs and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Rolls
- Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough, then dollop raspberry preserves on top and spread it gently.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Second Rise and Bake
- Prepare Baking Dish: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cut side up. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Glaze the Rolls
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Prepare the Dough
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine warmed milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir in yeast and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add Eggs and Flour: Beat in the eggs and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Rolls
- Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough, then dollop raspberry preserves on top and spread it gently.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Second Rise and Bake
- Prepare Baking Dish: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cut side up. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Glaze the Rolls
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 rolls
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
Conclusion
I can’t wait for you to try these Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls! I promise they’ll fill your kitchen with the most delightful aromas and leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you whip them up for a cozy breakfast or a special dessert, I’d love to hear about your baking adventure. Did you add your own twist to the filling or sprinkle a little extra love on top?
Don’t forget to snap a photo of your delicious creations and tag me on Instagram! I absolutely love seeing how your sweet rolls turn out, and it brings me so much joy to connect with fellow bakers. If you have any tips or variations to share, drop a comment below—let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!
So, roll up those sleeves and enjoy every moment of the process. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear about your sweet roll success!