Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen, especially when they are packed with delightful raspberries and topped with a zesty lemon glaze. These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are a perfect blend of sweet and tart, offering a cozy treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With their fluffy, pillowy texture and rich flavors, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of baking these irresistible rolls!
Ingredients
To make these delectable Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy.
- Once bubbly, add the egg, salt, and flour gradually. Stir the mixture until a soft dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly on top of the buttered dough, then scatter the fresh raspberries across the surface.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the lemon glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the lemon glaze over them while they are still warm, allowing it to soak in slightly.
- Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving warm, enjoying the delightful aroma and flavor!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor and texture, make sure your milk is just warm and not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. You can also substitute frozen raspberries if fresh ones are unavailable, just be sure to thaw and drain them before use to prevent excess moisture.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is a crucial step to develop gluten, which gives the rolls their light and fluffy texture. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use it to knead the dough easily. Just mix until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and becomes elastic.
FAQ
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough a day ahead and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to bake, take it out, let it come to room temperature, then proceed with the filling and baking steps.
Can these rolls be frozen?
Absolutely! Once they are baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container. Simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are a delightful treat that brings a touch of joy to any morning or gathering. The combination of warm, cinnamon-infused dough and fresh raspberries, topped off with a tangy lemon glaze, makes for a truly indulgent experience. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your baking adventure!